Coverage built for the pets
who've been there longest.
No age limits. No breed exclusions. No fine print designed to deny.
Tell us about your pet — three things you already know by heart.
Plans start at $11/month. No age limits. No breed exclusions.
Will you cover a condition my dog already has?
Yes. Shield covers pre-existing conditions that have been stable and symptom-free for 12 months or more. For active conditions — like arthritis or diabetes — we cover all new complications and unrelated illnesses from day one. We'll never use a diagnosis from two years ago to deny a claim today.
| Coverage Item | Shield | Typical Insurers |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-existing conditions (stable 12 mo.) | ✓Covered | ✗Excluded |
| Senior pets (age 8+) | ✓No age limit | ✗Often declined |
| Chronic conditions (arthritis, diabetes) | ✓New complications covered | ✗Excluded entirely |
| Prescription medications | ✓Included | ~Add-on cost |
| Routine bloodwork & diagnostics | ✓Included in all plans | ~Wellness add-on only |
| Specialist & emergency visits | ✓Covered at any licensed vet | ✓Network restrictions |
* Shield coverage applies after a 14-day waiting period for new illness claims. Accident coverage begins day 1.
What happens to the policy if I pass away?
The policy transfers automatically to any named family member or caregiver you designate — no new application, no waiting period, no lapse in coverage. You can name up to three people. We'll reach out to your designated contact within 48 hours to complete the transfer at no cost.
"After my husband passed, I was worried Biscuit's coverage would disappear. Shield called me within a day. They handled everything. I didn't have to fill out a single form."
Dorothy Hargrove, 81
Knoxville, TN
Can my daughter manage the account for me?
Absolutely. You can add up to two authorized family members or caregivers to your account. They can submit claims, update payment information, and speak with our team on your behalf — all without needing your password or a separate login. You stay in control; they just help carry the load.
Add a family manager in 60 seconds
Go to Account Settings → Family Access. Enter their name and email. They receive an invitation with their own secure login — separate from yours.
They can file claims without you
Authorized family members can upload vet receipts, track reimbursements, and receive payment updates. They cannot change your coverage level without your approval.
Remove access anytime
You remain the account holder. Family access can be revoked with one click, or by calling us. No waiting period, no paperwork.
We verify every authorized user
Shield requires identity confirmation for all family managers. This protects you from unauthorized changes to your policy.
Is this affordable on a fixed income?
Plans start at $11 a month. Most of our members pay between $18 and $34 depending on their pet's age and the coverage level they choose. There are no enrollment fees, no age-based surcharges, and you can pause or cancel any time with 30 days' notice — no penalty, no questions.
Essential
For seniors who want a safety net without the complexity.
70%
Reimburse
$250/year
Deductible
$5,000
Annual
- Accidents & injuries
- New illness coverage
- Emergency vet visits
- Prescription medications
Companion
Our most popular plan for aging pets with ongoing needs.
80%
Reimburse
$150/year
Deductible
$10,000
Annual
- Everything in Essential
- Chronic condition management
- Specialist & specialist referrals
- Annual bloodwork & diagnostics
- Dental illness coverage
Complete
Full coverage for pets with complex or multiple conditions.
90%
Reimburse
$100/year
Deductible
Unlimited
Annual
- Everything in Companion
- Unlimited annual coverage
- Alternative therapies
- Behavioral treatment
- End-of-life care
Prices shown for a 9-year-old mixed-breed dog in most ZIP codes. Your quote may vary slightly.
How do I know Shield will actually pay my claims?
Shield has paid 94% of all claims submitted since 2018, with an average reimbursement time of 4 business days. We're licensed in all 50 states, rated A- by AM Best, and we have a dedicated senior care team available Monday through Saturday, 8am–6pm Eastern. Real people answer the phone.
"I submitted a claim on Tuesday for Penny's hip surgery. The money was in my account by Friday. I've had this insurance for six years and they've never let me down once."
Harold Okonkwo, 76
Columbus, OH
Your pet has given you everything.
We'll help you give something back.
No pressure. No account creation. Just a quiet look at what's available for your pet.
No credit card required to get a quote. No email until you're ready.