Vets Choice Pet Insurance 2025: Comprehensive Australian Review & Key Insights
Our expert's opinion on Vets Choice
Vets Choice offers a mid-tier pet insurance policy with a single main plan (Elite) featuring a strong annual benefits cap of $15,000, flexible reimbursement rates (generally 80% or 100% as selected), and variable excess per claim (customisable, e.g., $200), but with notable condition sub-limits on chronic and specific illnesses. Its lack of broad wellness inclusions and capped dental/condition limits positions Vets Choice below leading competitors like Knose and Bow Wow Meow for value, though it stands out for its annual coverage ceiling and lifetime renewal guarantee. The policy is best suited for owners of younger, generally healthy pets or those seeking high annual limits and flexible excess rather than high reimbursements for chronic or breed-related conditions. Vets Choice is backed by Guild Insurance, a well-established mutual insurer in Australia, but public reviews highlight significant customer dissatisfaction (ProductReview.com.au rating: 2.1/5 from 10 reviews) with claim disputes and long processing times; average claim payout times are not published but are described in multiple reviews as slow and requiring follow-up.
- ✅$15,000 annual benefit limit per pet
- ✅Customisable reimbursement rate and excess
- ✅Lifetime renewal if cover maintained
- ✅Pre-approval available for planned care
- ✅Optional dental and wellness cover add-ons
- ✅Annual liability cover up to $100,000
- ✅No sub-limits for most accident claims
- ❌Low public review rating (2.1/5, ProductReview.com.au, 10 reviews)
- ❌Strict sub-limits on chronic and dental conditions
- ❌High exclusion list and waiting periods
- ❌No overseas cover or comprehensive wellness budget
- ❌Claim processing often slow, communication issues reported
Our expert's opinion on Vets Choice
- ✅$15,000 annual benefit limit per pet
- ✅Customisable reimbursement rate and excess
- ✅Lifetime renewal if cover maintained
- ✅Pre-approval available for planned care
- ✅Optional dental and wellness cover add-ons
- ✅Annual liability cover up to $100,000
- ✅No sub-limits for most accident claims
- ❌Low public review rating (2.1/5, ProductReview.com.au, 10 reviews)
- ❌Strict sub-limits on chronic and dental conditions
- ❌High exclusion list and waiting periods
- ❌No overseas cover or comprehensive wellness budget
- ❌Claim processing often slow, communication issues reported
Score- ✅$15,000 annual benefit limit per pet
- ✅Customisable reimbursement rate and excess
- ✅Lifetime renewal if cover maintained
- ✅Pre-approval available for planned care
- ✅Optional dental and wellness cover add-ons
- ✅Annual liability cover up to $100,000
- ✅No sub-limits for most accident claims
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the Australian market every year to provide you with a trustworthy and impartial analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, thousands of Australians rely on us each month to help guide them in their most important financial decisions.
Veteran's Choice Guarantees
Vets Choice stands out in the Australian pet insurance market with a highly customisable policy, providing up to $15,000 annual cover, flexible reimbursement rates (including 80% or up to 100%), and per-claim excess options.
Strengths include generous annual limits, reliable chronic condition and major illness cover, and strong protection for pet owner liability up to $100,000—features few competitors offer.
<br/>
Optional dental and dental plus add-ons extend coverage to medically necessary dental care and even prophylactic dental cleaning, which is rare.
<br/>
Main weaknesses are comprehensive sub-limits for select chronic conditions, strict exclusions for alternative therapies and overseas care, and notable waiting periods for cruciate ligament and dental benefits.
| Name of coverage | Vets Choice Elite Plan (Customisable) |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Premium, flexible, vet-endorsed |
| Type of coverage | Accident and specified illness/condition |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 80% or 100% (selected at sign up) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $15,000 |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Flexible; selected at purchase (e.g., $200 per claim) |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs/cats) | Dogs: 8 weeks–9 years (renewable if continuous); Cats: 8 weeks–9 years |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | ❌ |
| Waiting period (illness) | 21 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 21 days (except nil for some trauma/acute injury types) |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ (if cover renewed without break) |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ (eligible, up to annual limits/sub-limits) |
| Medications | ✅ (prescription, not alternative/complementary) |
| Hospitalization | ✅ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, labs) | ✅ |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | Optional: $800/year; prevent. dental $350/year add-on |
| Preventive care package | ❌ (except dental plus for dental hygiene, routine excluded) |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ❌ |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | ❌ (Australia only) |
| Civil liability | ✅ Up to $100,000 in Australia only |
| Euthanasia | ✅ Essential euthanasia: $500/year, incl. disposal |
| Death & cremation coverage | ✅ (included with essential euthanasia benefit) |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ❌ |
Chronic Conditions, Coverage Details, and Limitations
Chronic conditions (arthritis, diabetes, epilepsy, skin, heart, ear, GI) have individual $1,000 annual sub-limits (after initial investigation at full cover). Pre-approval for non-emergency treatment is available, and optional cover extensions apply to cruciate ligament and dental. No cover for overseas care or non-vet/alternative therapies. One excess applies per claim, not per invoice. Essential euthanasia is reimbursed at 100% up to $500, no excess.
Compare Vets Choice options to see if their comprehensive but targeted cover fits your pet and budget.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Vets Choice Exclusions
Vets Choice’s exclusions reflect a conservative approach, with strict policies on pre-existing and bilateral conditions, as well as chronic diseases arising prior to insurance.
Alternative and complementary therapies, even those covered by some competitors, are entirely excluded, as is overseas care of any kind.
Dental care, preventive and wellness treatments, and elective procedures are only reimbursed if specific optional add-ons are selected and waiting periods are met.
Legal liability cover notably excludes incidents involving family members, employees, dangerous or declared breeds, and any claims arising from incidents outside Australia.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions |
|
| Geographic exclusions |
|
| Ownership/usage exclusions |
|
| Liability exclusions |
|
| Administrative exclusions |
|
- Pre-existing conditions (including related and bilateral)
- Chronic/degenerative conditions prior to cover or waiting periods
- Dental care unless optional add-ons and waiting fulfilled
- Alternative/complementary therapy (acupuncture, chiro, hydrotherapy, supplements, etc.)
- Preventive/routine care, elective/beneficial procedures
- Experimental/stem cell/prosthesis unless essential part of eligible illness/injury
- No overseas vet treatment or liability claims
- Claims only valid within Australia
- No cover for incidents occurring outside Australia
- Commercial use (breeding, guarding, hunting, racing, law enforcement, fighting—except therapy/guide dogs)
- Claims against family/household members or employees
- Dangerous or declared dangerous breeds
- Contractual liability
- Fines, penalties, exemplary/punitive damages
- Liability from vehicle use
- Property damage to property in owner’s control or owned by policyholder/family
- Claims outside Australia
- Inconclusive diagnoses if protocol matches excluded condition
- Claims not lodged within one year of treatment
- Claims breaching international sanctions
Vets Choice Prices
Vets Choice is positioned as an expensive but comprehensive pet insurance provider in the Australian market.
The plans offer high annual limits (up to $15,000), flexible excess, and optional cover for dental, major chronic diseases, and cruciate ligaments—features that tend to drive premiums higher.
Its coverage is more generous than budget or mid-range insurers, with options for 80% or 100% reimbursement and minimal out-of-pocket costs for high-value claims.
Unlike “pure digital” low-cost competitors, Vets Choice retains a more traditional service approach, which helps ensure broader coverage but keeps pricing in the premium segment.
These plans are a better fit for pet owners seeking robust cover for high vet bills, rather than those prioritising the lowest monthly cost.
| Vets Choice Elite (estimated) | |
|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $38–$47/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $61–$72/month |
| Small breed dog | $47–$56/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $47–$56/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $65–$84/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $92–$113/month |
Compare Vets Choice plans against other providers to find the right balance of price and protection for your pet.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Vets Choice Promo Codes
| Vets Choice 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 reimbursement amount for Vets Choice?
With Vets Choice Elite, you'll be reimbursed for eligible vet bills up to 100% (minus the excess listed on your policy), helping you limit out-of-pocket expenses for accidents, illness, and even certain dental treatments if the relevant option is selected.
<br/>
Cruciate Ligament Surgery Cost Example
Total vet costs: $3,800 (including diagnostic imaging, surgery, post-op medication)
Deductible per claim: $200 (excess selected on policy)
Reimbursed at 100% after excess: $3,800 – $200 = $3,600 reimbursed
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $3,600.
ℹ️ Subject to the annual cruciate ligament sub-limit of $3,300 (or $5,300 if purchased) and 6-month waiting period. Out-of-pocket cost is $500 if the standard limit applies ($3,800 – $3,300 = $500 not covered).
Diabetes Diagnosis and Ongoing Management Example
Total vet costs for initial diagnosis and 4 months of ongoing care: $1,400 (consultations, bloodwork, medication, insulin)
Deductible per claim: $200
Reimbursed at 100% after excess: $1,400 – $200 = $1,200 reimbursed
👉 You receive $1,000 due to the annual sub-limit for diabetes.
Out-of-pocket cost: $400 ($200 excess + $200 above sub-limit).
ℹ️ The Elite plan covers chronic conditions like diabetes up to $1,000 per year, per condition, after excess.
Medically necessary dental extraction (with Dental option)
Total vet costs: $950 (including consultation, x-rays, anaesthesia, extraction)
Deductible per claim: $200
Reimbursed at 100% after excess: $950 – $200 = $750 reimbursed
👉 You receive $750 as dental work is covered up to $800 per year.
Out-of-pocket cost: $200 excess; no annual cap exceeded in this example.
ℹ️ Dental cover must be selected and the 6-month dental waiting period must be fulfilled. Reimbursement is up to $800 per year for eligible dental conditions.
Veterans Choice Assistance
| Assistance Vets Choice | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment or third-party direct settlement. Owners must pay upfront and claim reimbursement. |
| Payment facilities | N.C. | N.C. |
| Mobile app | N.C. | N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Online portal for digital claims submission 24/7. No information about mobile app functionality. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency helpline or teleconsultation services offered. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No published network of approved or preferred clinics or vets. |
| Coverage abroad | ❌ | No cover for vet care or liability incidents outside Australia. |
No information about mobile app functionality.
Customer Reviews of Vet's Choice
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| ProductReview.com.au | 2.1 out of 5 (10 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Vets Choice for their pets often mention:
- ✅ A few cases of successful reimbursements for specialist or complex claims, especially with pre-approval.
- ✅ Outcomes for approved claims that met terms and documentation were seen as positive by some.
- ✅ Policy does offer optional benefits, such as pre-approval for non-urgent procedures.
On the negative side:
- ❌ A high proportion of claims are denied, often for reasons not made clear at sign-up or due to exclusions.
- ❌ Many customers cite slow claims processing times and repeat requests for documentation.
- ❌ Communication with customer support is described as difficult, with frequent delays or lack of updates.
- ❌ Policy changes and unexplained “stand down” periods created confusion and left some pets without expected cover.
- ❌ Annual premium increases and out-of-pocket expenses after sub-limits are reached are commonly viewed as disappointing.
- ❌ The product is generally rated lower than other Australian pet insurance providers in direct comparisons.
Contacting Vets Choice: A Guide
| Vets Choice 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 | Lodge claims 24/7 via the [www.vetschoice.net.au](https://www.vetschoice.net.au) online portal. Phone: 1800 999 738 Required documents: completed claim form, vet invoice and itemised receipts. Most reimbursements paid by direct deposit; times vary, but allow up to 10 business days for standard claims. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Call Vets Choice customer service at 1800 999 738 during business hours Or write to: Locked Bag 32010, Collins Street East VIC 8003 You may be required to confirm policyholder details before the certificate is issued. |
| To contact assistance | Phone customer support at 1800 999 738 (business hours) Or use the website contact form at [www.vetschoice.net.au](https://www.vetschoice.net.au) For written requests: Locked Bag 32010, Collins Street East VIC 8003 |
| To cancel my policy | Call 1800 999 738 or write to Locked Bag 32010, Collins Street East VIC 8003. Notice of cancellation should be in writing; cancellation is effective from receipt date. Provide your policy number and identification details; refunds for unused premium may be available (pro rata, minus any fees as specified). |
Phone: 1800 999 738
Required documents: completed claim form, vet invoice and itemised receipts.
Most reimbursements paid by direct deposit; times vary, but allow up to 10 business days for standard claims.
Or write to: Locked Bag 32010, Collins Street East VIC 8003
You may be required to confirm policyholder details before the certificate is issued.
Or use the website contact form at [www.vetschoice.net.au](https://www.vetschoice.net.au)
For written requests: Locked Bag 32010, Collins Street East VIC 8003
Notice of cancellation should be in writing; cancellation is effective from receipt date.
Provide your policy number and identification details; refunds for unused premium may be available (pro rata, minus any fees as specified).
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Vets Choice?
Yes, you must pay all vet expenses up front and then lodge a claim for reimbursement through their online portal. The insurer reimburses you directly by bank transfer once your claim is approved.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Vets Choice?
You can cancel your Vets Choice policy by calling customer service or sending a written request (email or post). Cancellation takes effect from the date your notice is received. Any unused premium may be refunded on a pro-rata basis, less any fees that apply.
What is excluded from Vets Choice pet insurance coverage?
Vets Choice excludes all pre-existing conditions. Preventive care, routine check-ups, vaccination, behavioural and training costs, cosmetic and elective treatments are not covered. Routine dental care is only covered if the appropriate add-on is purchased, and alternative/complementary medicine is always excluded. There is no cover for costs arising from breeding, pregnancy, or claims for incidents or treatment outside Australia.
Are hereditary or chronic conditions covered by Vets Choice?
Hereditary and chronic conditions first diagnosed after the policy starts can be covered, but annual sub-limits apply. Conditions present before cover commences or arising within any applicable waiting period are not covered. Treatment for bilateral conditions is excluded if the condition is found on the other side prior to joining. You must review sub-limits for ongoing treatment and investigation per condition.
Does Vets Choice have a waiting period and how long are they?
Yes, there is a standard 21-day waiting period for both accidents and illnesses, except for certain emergencies. The waiting period for cruciate ligament problems and some optional dental cover is six months. Cover for conditions occurring or identified during the waiting period will be excluded.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Vets Choice?
Yes, you must pay all vet expenses up front and then lodge a claim for reimbursement through their online portal. The insurer reimburses you directly by bank transfer once your claim is approved.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Vets Choice?
You can cancel your Vets Choice policy by calling customer service or sending a written request (email or post). Cancellation takes effect from the date your notice is received. Any unused premium may be refunded on a pro-rata basis, less any fees that apply.
What is excluded from Vets Choice pet insurance coverage?
Vets Choice excludes all pre-existing conditions. Preventive care, routine check-ups, vaccination, behavioural and training costs, cosmetic and elective treatments are not covered. Routine dental care is only covered if the appropriate add-on is purchased, and alternative/complementary medicine is always excluded. There is no cover for costs arising from breeding, pregnancy, or claims for incidents or treatment outside Australia.
Are hereditary or chronic conditions covered by Vets Choice?
Hereditary and chronic conditions first diagnosed after the policy starts can be covered, but annual sub-limits apply. Conditions present before cover commences or arising within any applicable waiting period are not covered. Treatment for bilateral conditions is excluded if the condition is found on the other side prior to joining. You must review sub-limits for ongoing treatment and investigation per condition.
Does Vets Choice have a waiting period and how long are they?
Yes, there is a standard 21-day waiting period for both accidents and illnesses, except for certain emergencies. The waiting period for cruciate ligament problems and some optional dental cover is six months. Cover for conditions occurring or identified during the waiting period will be excluded.
