Terms of Service

The terms governing your pet insurance coverage

Last updated: August 23, 2025

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using Pooches pet insurance services, you accept and agree to be bound by the terms and provision of this agreement. These Terms of Service govern your use of our website, mobile application, and insurance services.

2. Insurance Coverage

Pooches provides pet insurance coverage subject to the terms and conditions outlined in your policy documents. Coverage includes:

  • Accident and illness coverage for covered conditions
  • Emergency veterinary care
  • Prescription medications as specified in your policy
  • Diagnostic tests and procedures
  • Optional wellness and preventative care (if selected)

3. Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for coverage, your pet must meet the following criteria:

  • Be at least 8 weeks old at enrollment
  • Have no pre-existing conditions (unless specifically covered)
  • Pass a health screening if required
  • Be a domesticated dog or cat (other pets may be covered under specific plans)
  • Reside in a covered geographical area

4. Premium Payments

Insurance premiums are due according to your selected payment schedule. Payment terms include:

  • Monthly, quarterly, or annual payment options
  • Automatic payment enrollment is available
  • Grace period of 10 days for late payments
  • Policy cancellation may occur for non-payment after the grace period
  • Reinstatement may be available subject to underwriting review

5. Claims Process

To file a claim for covered veterinary expenses:

  • Submit claims within 180 days of treatment
  • Provide complete veterinary records and itemized bills
  • Claims are typically processed within 3-5 business days
  • Reimbursement is based on your policy's coverage percentage and deductible
  • Direct payment to veterinary providers may be available

6. Exclusions and Limitations

The following are not covered under standard pet insurance policies:

  • Pre-existing conditions (conditions present before coverage begins)
  • Elective or cosmetic procedures
  • Breeding-related expenses
  • Experimental or investigational treatments
  • Routine grooming and boarding
  • Food, supplements, and over-the-counter medications

7. Waiting Periods

Coverage begins after the following waiting periods:

  • Accidents: Coverage begins immediately after enrollment
  • Illnesses: 14-day waiting period from policy effective date
  • Orthopedic conditions: 6-month waiting period
  • Cruciate ligament conditions: 12-month waiting period

8. Policy Cancellation

You may cancel your policy at any time. Pooches may cancel your policy for the following reasons:

  • Non-payment of premiums
  • Fraudulent claims or misrepresentation
  • Failure to comply with policy terms
  • Changes in risk factors

9. Dispute Resolution

Any disputes arising from this agreement will be resolved through binding arbitration in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association. You agree to waive your right to a jury trial or class action lawsuit.

10. Limitation of Liability

Pooches' liability is limited to the coverage amounts specified in your policy. We are not liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use of our services.

11. Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms of Service at any time. Material changes will be communicated to policyholders with at least 30 days' notice. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of the modified terms.

12. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms of Service or your policy, please contact us:

Customer Service: 1-800-POOCHES

Email: support@pooches.com

Claims: claims@pooches.com

Address: 123 Pet Insurance Way, San Francisco, CA 94105