Pet Circle Pet Insurance 2025: Expert Review for Australian Pet Owners
Our expert's opinion on Pet Circle
Pet Circle Insurance offers a flexible, fully digital pet insurance policy for dogs and cats, with customisable annual limits up to $30,000, selectable reimbursement rates (70%, 80%, or 90%), and a user-chosen annual excess applied once per policy year. Compared to other major Australian insurers, Pet Circle stands out for its absence of sublimits, broad annual caps, and the unique 360° Care upgrade for premium cover needs, positioning it as a high-value, modular option with sharp digital convenience and generally competitive pricing. The product is particularly suited for owners of young pets (especially under 3 years for 360° Care), those seeking high annual limits without restrictive sub-caps, and pet owners comfortable managing claims online rather than in-person. The insurer, Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, is an established player in the market, while Pet Circle is a leading e-commerce pet retailer; the retailer enjoys a 4.4/5 Trustpilot score from 6,347 reviews, but insurance-specific feedback is scarce. Claims are assessed in approximately 5 business days via a streamlined online process, reflecting efficiency in digital claims handling.
- ✅Annual limit up to $30,000
- ✅Choice of 70%, 80%, or 90% reimbursement
- ✅No sublimits; all claims up to annual max
- ✅Flexible excess applies once yearly
- ✅360° Care add-on: dental, behaviour, therapies
- ✅Fast digital claims, ~5 days assessment
- ✅Direct vet pay offered (where agreed)
- ❌No wellness or routine/preventive cover
- ❌360° Care only for pets under 3 years at sign-up
- ❌No insurance-specific consumer reviews available
- ❌No coverage for pre-existing conditions
- ❌Limited pricing transparency online
Our expert's opinion on Pet Circle
- ✅Annual limit up to $30,000
- ✅Choice of 70%, 80%, or 90% reimbursement
- ✅No sublimits; all claims up to annual max
- ✅Flexible excess applies once yearly
- ✅360° Care add-on: dental, behaviour, therapies
- ✅Fast digital claims, ~5 days assessment
- ✅Direct vet pay offered (where agreed)
- ❌No wellness or routine/preventive cover
- ❌360° Care only for pets under 3 years at sign-up
- ❌No insurance-specific consumer reviews available
- ❌No coverage for pre-existing conditions
- ❌Limited pricing transparency online
Score- ✅Annual limit up to $30,000
- ✅Choice of 70%, 80%, or 90% reimbursement
- ✅No sublimits; all claims up to annual max
- ✅Flexible excess applies once yearly
- ✅360° Care add-on: dental, behaviour, therapies
- ✅Fast digital claims, ~5 days assessment
- ✅Direct vet pay offered (where agreed)
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available on the Australian market each year to provide you with trusted and impartial analysis. Thanks to this thorough approach, hundreds of thousands of Australians trust us every month to help guide them in making their most important financial decisions.
The Pet Circle Guarantees
Pet Circle Insurance offers a highly customisable policy with a strong annual limit (up to $30,000), benefit percentages of 70%, 80%, or 90%, and a single annual excess, allowing pet owners to tailor coverage to their risk and budget profile.
The core policy is competitive for accident and illness, with no sub-limits per condition, and covers vet consults, emergency boarding, overseas vet care (NZ/Norfolk Island), and essential euthanasia, but does not include dental, behavioural, or alternative therapy unless the 360° Care package is added at policy commencement for younger pets.
A key advantage is flexibility—owners can reduce cover at renewal—and the absence of restrictive sub-limits, making it attractive for those seeking broad cover without unnecessary extras.
However, routine preventive care, some specialist therapies, and cover for older pets or for pre-existing or congenital conditions are lacking, and 360° Care can only be added when a pet is under three years old.
Overall, Pet Circle stands out for personalisation and high limits but is less suited to those seeking routine care or later add-ons.
| Name of coverage | Pet Circle Standard (Customisable) | Pet Circle with 360° Care Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Customisable core cover | Standard plus premium wellness upgrades |
| Type of coverage | Accident and illness | Accident, illness, dental, behavioural, therapies |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 70%, 80%, or 90% | 70%, 80%, or 90% |
| Annual reimbursement limit | Up to $30,000 | Up to $30,000 |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Annual, chosen by customer | Annual, chosen by customer |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | From 6 weeks to under 9 years | 6 weeks up to under 3 years at upgrade |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | N.C. | N.C. |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days | 14 days (dental/behavioural: up to 6 months) |
| Waiting period (accident) | 1 day (some conditions 6 months) | 1 day (some conditions 6 months) |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ if policy is renewed | ✅ if policy is renewed |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ (unless opted out by customer) | ✅ (unless opted out by customer) |
| Medications | ✅ if prescribed for eligible events | ✅ if prescribed for eligible events |
| Hospitalization | ✅ | ✅ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ❌ | Optional, if added at sign-up, waiting period |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | ❌ | ❌ |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ❌ | Optional, if added at sign-up, waiting period |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | NZ/Norfolk Island, up to 60 days | NZ/Norfolk Island, up to 60 days |
| Civil liability | ❌ | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅ for covered illness/injury | ✅ for covered illness/injury |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ | ❌ |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ✅ up to 30 days per event | ✅ up to 30 days per event |
360° Care Upgrade Information
The 360° Care upgrade must be added at sign up or before your pet turns three and cannot be added later; waiting periods may be waived for some conditions if pre-approval and a vet examination are obtained.
No routine care (preventives, vaccinations, wellness) is available, and cover for each condition is subject only to the annual policy limit—no per-incident sub-limits.
Changes to benefit percent, annual excess, or overall cover can be made at annual renewal.
Compare plans to ensure you select the right balance of premium, protection, and optional extras for your pet.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Pet Circle Exclusions
Pet Circle’s exclusions align with standard market practice but are broad and remove many predictable and ongoing costs from cover, notably including routine and preventive care such as vaccinations, desexing, and wellness checks.
A significant exclusion is the refusal to cover pre-existing conditions or any illness or injury with symptoms or knowledge prior to enrolment or during any waiting period, with no coverage for bilateral or recurring conditions.
Accident and illness coverage does not extend to certain high-risk conditions (e.g., Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome unless specifically applied for and accepted) or to expenses incurred from elective/cosmetic or experimental procedures.
Pet Circle does not reimburse for any costs associated with the pet’s death, including cremation, burial, or autopsy, and excludes theft, loss, and search expenses, which are sometimes included by select competitors.
Finally, coverage abroad is limited to short stays in New Zealand or Norfolk Island, and strict limits on medication eligibility and adherence to vet advice apply.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions |
|
| Geographic exclusions |
|
| Eligibility/exposure |
|
| Claim timing exclusions |
|
| Death/theft/loss |
|
| Civil liability |
|
| War, epidemics, disasters |
|
| Boarding/transport |
|
- Pre-existing symptoms, conditions, or related bilateral issues
- Waiting period incidents
- Congenital/hereditary conditions
- BOAS unless approved
- Preventive/routine care (vaccination, desexing, teeth cleaning, grooming, check-ups)
- Non-prescribed/experimental/compounded/unregistered medications or treatments
- Behavioural training, merchandise, or pheromone therapies
- Cosmetic procedures (tail/ear docking, declawing, prosthetics, transplants, non-medically necessary surgery)
- Not following vet’s advice or failing to vaccinate
- Additional vet fees (after-hours, home visits) except for emergencies
- Outside Australia, NZ, or Norfolk Island
- Over 60 days abroad (even within covered regions)
- Dangerous or banned breeds
- Pets used for commercial work, field sports (except show/assistance/search & rescue)
- Any illness/injury/event before policy commencement or in exclusion period
- No coverage without current/vetted documents
- No cover after pet’s death (cremation, burial, storage, autopsy, funeral)
- No cover for theft, loss or search expenses
- Not covered for any third-party injury or property damage
- Exclusions for war, civil unrest, pandemics/epidemics, nuclear/radiation, natural disasters
- Boarding except when owner is hospitalised and no one else can care for pet
- Transport costs outside policy-defined events
Pet Circle Prices
Pet Circle positions itself as a competitive, mid-range provider, leveraging a fully digital model to keep administrative costs low and pass on savings to pet owners.
While the reimbursement rates (up to 90%), annual limits (up to $30,000), and flexible excesses compare favourably with several traditional insurers, the core cover is leaner—routine care and certain high-cost therapies require an early sign-up upgrade and pre-existing or chronic conditions remain excluded.
Compared to premium insurers that include automatic wellness or broader dental care, Pet Circle focuses on essential health costs, with optional extras for more comprehensive cover at a modest price increase.
The absence of restrictive sub-limits and the direct-claim digital process further support its position as an accessible choice for families and first-time pet owners seeking fair cover without premium pricing.
Thus, for those comfortable managing their policy online and happy to tailor their options, Pet Circle offers good value at a moderate price point.
| Standard Policy (customisable) | With 360° Care (optional add-on) | |
|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $22–$30/month | $27–$36/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $38–$46/month | $43–$54/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $35–$42/month | $42–$51/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $54–$66/month | $62–$78/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $85–$110/month | $95–$123/month |
Compare our plans with other insurers to find the best coverage and value for your pet.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Pet Circle Promo Codes
| Pet Circle Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
What is the Pet Circle reimbursement amount?
Reimbursements with Pet Circle are straightforward: after you pay the vet, claim back your eligible expenses—Pet Circle applies your annual excess (deductible) to your first claim(s) each year, then covers up to 90% of the remaining cost, subject to your annual coverage limit.
Cruciate Ligament Repair Surgery Reimbursement Example
Surgery for cruciate ligament repair Total vet costs: $3,500 Annual excess to subtract: $100 (applied as this is your first claim of the year) Amount eligible for reimbursement: $3,500 – $100 = $3,400 Reimbursement at 90%: $3,400 × 90% = $3,060 👉 You receive a reimbursement of $3,060; your out-of-pocket cost is $440. ℹ️ The excess is only subtracted once per insurance year—subsequent claims will not have the excess applied until the next renewal.
Treatment for dental disease (with 360° Care add-on)
Total vet costs: $850 (consultation, x-rays, dental cleaning, extractions)
Annual excess already used on earlier claim this year
Reimbursement at 90%: $850 × 90% = $765
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $765; your out-of-pocket cost is $85.
ℹ️ Dental cover is available only if you chose the 360° Care option, and a waiting period of up to 6 months may apply for older pets.
Behavioural condition management with 360° Care
Total vet costs: $400 (diagnosis and medication for anxiety)
Annual excess already used on previous claims
Reimbursement at 90%: $400 × 90% = $360
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $360; your out-of-pocket cost is $40.
ℹ️ Behavioural treatment must be prescribed and overseen by a veterinarian and is covered only with the 360° Care upgrade after a 6-month waiting period.
The Assistance Pet Circle
| Assistance Pet Circle | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment or direct settlement options specified. Claims are reimbursed post-payment. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No mention of interest-free instalments or payment spreading for premiums. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be submitted online via portal. Vet can submit direct claims online as well. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency vet line or teleconsultation service is indicated. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No formal network of partner clinics or pre-arranged direct payment options is described. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Pets are covered for up to 60 days in New Zealand and Norfolk Island while travelling with owner. |
Customer Reviews of Pet Circle
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.4 out of 5 (6,347 reviews) |
We analysed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Pet Circle for their pets often mention:
- ✅ A fast product ordering and delivery process, appreciated for its reliability and speed.
- ✅ Competitive prices for pet goods, considered good value.
- ✅ An easy-to-use website and streamlined ordering experience.
- ✅ Responsive customer service that addresses issues raised in negative reviews.
On the negative side:
- ❌ Occasional issues with delivery accuracy, such as incorrect or missing items.
- ❌ Packages sometimes left in unsafe or inconvenient locations.
- ❌ Delays in delivery are reported, especially during busy periods.
- ❌ No specific feedback is available on the insurance product itself, making it difficult for pet insurance shoppers to assess claims or support quality.
Contacting Pet Circle: A Guide
| Pet Circle Customer Service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Submit your claim online at www.petcircleinsurance.com.au or by email to [email protected]. Required documents: completed claim form, paid invoice/receipts, itemised vet bill. For vet-submitted claims, the vet may file directly. Standard processing time: approx. 5 business days after all documents are received. Reimbursements are paid to your nominated bank account. Phone: 1800 951 130 (Mon–Fri 8am–7pm AEST). |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Email [email protected] or phone 1800 951 130 (Mon–Fri 8am–7pm AEST). If required in writing, request via mail: Privacy Officer, Level 7/9 Castlereagh St, Sydney NSW 2000. |
| To contact assistance | Phone: 1800 951 130 (Mon–Fri 8am–7pm AEST) Email: [email protected] Use these contacts for general support, help with claims, or policy queries. |
| To cancel my policy | Email [email protected] or phone 1800 951 130. No minimum cancellation period applies; cancellation takes effect from the date your request is received unless future-dated. No cancellation form required but written confirmation may be requested. Unused portion of paid premium is refunded on a pro rata basis, less any paid claims. |
Required documents: completed claim form, paid invoice/receipts, itemised vet bill.
For vet-submitted claims, the vet may file directly.
Standard processing time: approx. 5 business days after all documents are received.
Reimbursements are paid to your nominated bank account.
Phone: 1800 951 130 (Mon–Fri 8am–7pm AEST).
If required in writing, request via mail: Privacy Officer, Level 7/9 Castlereagh St, Sydney NSW 2000.
Email: [email protected]
Use these contacts for general support, help with claims, or policy queries.
No minimum cancellation period applies; cancellation takes effect from the date your request is received unless future-dated.
No cancellation form required but written confirmation may be requested.
Unused portion of paid premium is refunded on a pro rata basis, less any paid claims.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Pet Circle?
Pet Circle does not offer an advance payment or third-party direct payment system as standard. In most cases, you will need to pay your vet directly for treatment at the time of service. You can then submit a claim to Pet Circle for reimbursement of eligible expenses, according to your chosen benefit percentage and annual limit. Some vets may agree to be paid directly by Pet Circle, but this must be arranged between you, your vet, and the insurer prior to treatment.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Pet Circle?
You can cancel your policy by contacting Pet Circle via email at [email protected] or by phone at 1800 951 130. No minimum notice period applies; cancellation takes effect on the date your request is received unless you specify a future date. You do not need to complete a formal cancellation form, but written confirmation may be requested for record-keeping. Unused premium is refunded on a pro rata basis, less any claims already paid.
What is covered and what is excluded by Pet Circle Insurance?
Pet Circle covers the cost of veterinary treatment for accidents and illnesses, subject to your selected options and policy terms. The standard policy excludes routine care, dental illness, and behavioural conditions unless you purchase the 360° Care upgrade. Pre-existing conditions, elective or cosmetic procedures, and some breed-specific exclusions also apply. The annual benefit limit, reimbursement percentage, and excess are flexible and chosen at sign-up.
Are there any waiting periods before I can claim?
Yes, waiting periods apply before you can claim on your policy. There is a 1-day waiting period for most accidental injuries and a 14-day waiting period for most illnesses. Some conditions, like cruciate ligament issues, certain dental or behavioural conditions, have a 6-month waiting period. You may apply to reduce some waiting periods by submitting a vet exam and an application form for approval.
Can I get overseas cover for my pet with Pet Circle?
Yes, Pet Circle Insurance covers your pet for injuries or illnesses that occur when travelling with you to New Zealand or Norfolk Island for up to 60 consecutive days. The same policy conditions, annual limits, and benefit percentages apply as if you were in Australia. You must ensure your pet meets local entry requirements and notify the insurer in line with policy terms. No cover is provided for other countries or trips longer than 60 days.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Pet Circle?
Pet Circle does not offer an advance payment or third-party direct payment system as standard. In most cases, you will need to pay your vet directly for treatment at the time of service. You can then submit a claim to Pet Circle for reimbursement of eligible expenses, according to your chosen benefit percentage and annual limit. Some vets may agree to be paid directly by Pet Circle, but this must be arranged between you, your vet, and the insurer prior to treatment.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Pet Circle?
You can cancel your policy by contacting Pet Circle via email at [email protected] or by phone at 1800 951 130. No minimum notice period applies; cancellation takes effect on the date your request is received unless you specify a future date. You do not need to complete a formal cancellation form, but written confirmation may be requested for record-keeping. Unused premium is refunded on a pro rata basis, less any claims already paid.
What is covered and what is excluded by Pet Circle Insurance?
Pet Circle covers the cost of veterinary treatment for accidents and illnesses, subject to your selected options and policy terms. The standard policy excludes routine care, dental illness, and behavioural conditions unless you purchase the 360° Care upgrade. Pre-existing conditions, elective or cosmetic procedures, and some breed-specific exclusions also apply. The annual benefit limit, reimbursement percentage, and excess are flexible and chosen at sign-up.
Are there any waiting periods before I can claim?
Yes, waiting periods apply before you can claim on your policy. There is a 1-day waiting period for most accidental injuries and a 14-day waiting period for most illnesses. Some conditions, like cruciate ligament issues, certain dental or behavioural conditions, have a 6-month waiting period. You may apply to reduce some waiting periods by submitting a vet exam and an application form for approval.
Can I get overseas cover for my pet with Pet Circle?
Yes, Pet Circle Insurance covers your pet for injuries or illnesses that occur when travelling with you to New Zealand or Norfolk Island for up to 60 consecutive days. The same policy conditions, annual limits, and benefit percentages apply as if you were in Australia. You must ensure your pet meets local entry requirements and notify the insurer in line with policy terms. No cover is provided for other countries or trips longer than 60 days.
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