Fetch vs Embrace Pet Insurance
A factual, side-by-side look at coverage, deductibles, reimbursement, limits and waiting periods. We do not declare a universal winner.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Fetch | Embrace |
|---|---|---|
| Plans | Fetch’s main pet insurance product provides Accident and Illness coverage. Customers can customize their policy using an annual deductible, reimbursement rate and maximum annual payout. Fetch also offers an optional Wellness plan for preventative care. Wellness is separate from Accident and Illness coverage and uses set reimbursement amounts for eligible routine-care services rather than the standard insurance reimbursement percentage. | Embrace’s primary pet insurance provides accident and illness coverage. Customers can customize their policy by selecting an annual deductible, reimbursement percentage and annual maximum. Embrace also offers accident-only coverage for eligible pets, including pets that are 15 years or older. Optional coverage is available for items such as veterinary exam fees. Wellness Rewards is a separate optional wellness membership rather than insurance and is designed to help reimburse eligible routine and preventative expenses. |
| Coverage | Fetch Accident and Illness coverage can include eligible exam fees, diagnostic testing, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, acupuncture, medications, dental treatment, behavioral therapy, and treatment for hereditary, congenital and breed-specific conditions. Fetch also includes coverage for sick-visit exam fees. Its published materials state that eligible behavioral therapy can be reimbursed up to $1,000 per year, with no copay or deductible for that benefit. Pre-existing conditions are excluded, although Fetch states that certain curable pre-existing conditions may become eligible after the applicable exclusionary period. | Embrace accident and illness coverage can include eligible diagnostics and imaging, hospitalization, surgery, emergency veterinary care, specialty care, dental illness, behavioral therapy, rehabilitation, and treatment for hereditary, genetic and breed-specific conditions. Dental illnesses are covered up to $1,000 per policy year, while dental accidents are covered subject to the policy’s annual limit. Embrace generally excludes pre-existing conditions, but certain curable pre-existing conditions may become eligible after the pet has been symptom-free and treatment-free for the applicable period. |
| Deductibles | Fetch uses an annual deductible. Published Fetch materials show deductible choices that can vary by pet and purchase method. Examples include $250, $300, $500, $700 and higher options, with additional deductible choices potentially available by calling Fetch. Once the annual deductible has been met, it does not apply again until the next policy year. | Embrace uses an annual deductible. Current published materials state that customers can choose an annual deductible from $100 to $1,000. Once the annual deductible has been met, it does not need to be paid again until the next policy year. |
| Reimbursement | Fetch offers reimbursement rates of 70%, 80% or 90% for eligible Accident and Illness expenses. The selected reimbursement rate works together with the annual deductible and maximum annual payout. Fetch reimburses based on eligible veterinary expenses rather than using a fixed benefit schedule. | Embrace offers reimbursement options of 70%, 80% or 90% for eligible covered expenses. The reimbursement percentage is selected when customizing the policy and works together with the annual deductible and annual coverage limit. |
| Annual limits | Fetch offers annual maximum payout options including $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, and Unlimited (available in some cases when purchasing directly by phone). The maximum annual payout is the maximum amount Fetch will reimburse for eligible expenses during the policy year. Availability can vary based on the pet and location. | Embrace allows customers to customize their annual coverage maximum. The selected annual maximum determines the maximum amount available for eligible covered expenses during the policy term. The available limits can vary by state and policy. |
| Waiting periods | Fetch states: accidents no waiting period, illnesses up to 15 days, knee and hip conditions 6 months. Fetch also describes a six-month waiting period for certain knee, cartilage and ACL conditions, with an option to bypass the applicable orthopedic waiting period through a qualifying veterinary examination. Wellness coverage has no waiting period when added to a policy. | Embrace’s published policy terms state: accidents 2 days, illnesses 14 days, orthopedic conditions for dogs 6 months. The orthopedic waiting period may be reduced for some dogs after an eligible orthopedic examination and review by Embrace. Waiting-period requirements can vary depending on the policy and state. |
| Dental | Fetch provides dental coverage for both dental injuries and dental disease. Its published coverage includes every adult tooth and the gums, including conditions such as periodontal disease, oral tumors, dental trauma, extractions, root canals and other eligible dental procedures. Routine dental cleanings are available through the optional Fetch Wellness coverage. Dental treatment remains subject to the policy’s annual maximum and other applicable terms. | Embrace covers dental accidents under the policy’s annual coverage limit. Dental illness coverage is available up to $1,000 per policy year. Embrace states that an annual dental exam is not required for dental illness coverage. Routine dental care is handled separately through the optional Wellness Rewards program. |
| Prescription coverage | Prescription medications prescribed by a veterinarian to treat a new eligible accident or illness can be covered. Fetch also operates Fetch Pet Rx, through which eligible members can purchase prescriptions and submit claims for reimbursement. Fetch states that qualifying medications purchased through Fetch Pet Rx can receive 100% reimbursement under applicable terms. | Prescription medications can be covered when they are prescribed by a licensed veterinarian for an eligible covered condition. Embrace also offers additional options related to prescription medications and prescription diet coverage depending on the policy and selected benefits. |
| Wellness | Fetch offers an optional Wellness plan for routine and preventative care. Depending on the selected Wellness plan, benefits can include annual exams, vaccinations, heartworm, flea and tick prevention, dental cleanings, spaying or neutering, blood, urine and fecal testing, and other eligible preventative services. Fetch states that its Wellness coverage can reimburse up to $1,200 per year. Wellness uses set dollar reimbursements rather than the 70%, 80% or 90% reimbursement structure used for Accident and Illness coverage. There is no deductible, copay or waiting period for Wellness coverage. | Embrace offers Wellness Rewards, an optional wellness membership designed to reimburse eligible routine and preventative expenses. It can help cover expenses such as routine veterinary care, preventative services, training and grooming, depending on the selected annual allowance. Wellness Rewards is not insurance and is separate from Embrace’s accident and illness insurance coverage. It is not available in Rhode Island. |
| Exam fees | Sick-visit exam fees are included in Fetch’s Accident and Illness coverage. | Optional coverage is available for veterinary exam fees. |
| Pre-existing conditions | Pre-existing conditions are excluded, although Fetch states that certain curable pre-existing conditions may become eligible after the applicable exclusionary period. | Pre-existing conditions are generally excluded, but certain curable pre-existing conditions may become eligible after the pet has been symptom-free and treatment-free for the applicable period. |
| Claims | Fetch uses a reimbursement model. Pet owners pay the veterinarian first, then submit a claim through the Fetch Pet Insurance app or online account. Claims require a paid veterinary invoice and supporting medical records. Fetch states that claims are typically processed in less than 10 days. Once an eligible claim is approved and the deductible has been met, reimbursement can be deposited directly into the policyholder’s bank account. Claims generally must be submitted within 90 days of the veterinary visit. | Embrace uses a reimbursement model. Pet owners can visit any licensed veterinarian, clinic, specialist or emergency practice in the U.S. There are no provider networks. After paying the veterinarian, customers can upload their invoice through the Embrace app or website and track the claim. Embrace currently states that 90% or more of claims are paid within 10 business days, with approved reimbursement deposited directly into the policyholder’s bank account. |
Coverage
How to compare: Read the covered and excluded lists in each sample policy.
| Feature | Fetch | Embrace |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Fetch Accident and Illness coverage can include eligible exam fees, diagnostic testing, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, acupuncture, medications, dental treatment, behavioral therapy, and treatment for hereditary, congenital and breed-specific conditions. Fetch also includes coverage for sick-visit exam fees. Its published materials state that eligible behavioral therapy can be reimbursed up to $1,000 per year, with no copay or deductible for that benefit. Pre-existing conditions are excluded, although Fetch states that certain curable pre-existing conditions may become eligible after the applicable exclusionary period. | Embrace accident and illness coverage can include eligible diagnostics and imaging, hospitalization, surgery, emergency veterinary care, specialty care, dental illness, behavioral therapy, rehabilitation, and treatment for hereditary, genetic and breed-specific conditions. Dental illnesses are covered up to $1,000 per policy year, while dental accidents are covered subject to the policy’s annual limit. Embrace generally excludes pre-existing conditions, but certain curable pre-existing conditions may become eligible after the pet has been symptom-free and treatment-free for the applicable period. |
Price
Prices depend on your pet’s species, breed, age and ZIP code and on the deductible, reimbursement rate and annual limit chosen. Compare estimates for your own pet at identical settings rather than relying on a single average.
Deductibles
How to compare: Annual, per-condition or lifetime, and the amounts offered.
| Feature | Fetch | Embrace |
|---|---|---|
| Deductibles | Fetch uses an annual deductible. Published Fetch materials show deductible choices that can vary by pet and purchase method. Examples include $250, $300, $500, $700 and higher options, with additional deductible choices potentially available by calling Fetch. Once the annual deductible has been met, it does not apply again until the next policy year. | Embrace uses an annual deductible. Current published materials state that customers can choose an annual deductible from $100 to $1,000. Once the annual deductible has been met, it does not need to be paid again until the next policy year. |
Reimbursement
How to compare: The percentages offered and how payouts are calculated.
| Feature | Fetch | Embrace |
|---|---|---|
| Reimbursement | Fetch offers reimbursement rates of 70%, 80% or 90% for eligible Accident and Illness expenses. The selected reimbursement rate works together with the annual deductible and maximum annual payout. Fetch reimburses based on eligible veterinary expenses rather than using a fixed benefit schedule. | Embrace offers reimbursement options of 70%, 80% or 90% for eligible covered expenses. The reimbursement percentage is selected when customizing the policy and works together with the annual deductible and annual coverage limit. |
Annual limits
How to compare: Fixed or unlimited, and any per-condition or lifetime caps.
| Feature | Fetch | Embrace |
|---|---|---|
| Annual limits | Fetch offers annual maximum payout options including $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, and Unlimited (available in some cases when purchasing directly by phone). The maximum annual payout is the maximum amount Fetch will reimburse for eligible expenses during the policy year. Availability can vary based on the pet and location. | Embrace allows customers to customize their annual coverage maximum. The selected annual maximum determines the maximum amount available for eligible covered expenses during the policy term. The available limits can vary by state and policy. |
Waiting periods
How to compare: Accident, illness and orthopedic waiting periods.
| Feature | Fetch | Embrace |
|---|---|---|
| Waiting periods | Fetch states: accidents no waiting period, illnesses up to 15 days, knee and hip conditions 6 months. Fetch also describes a six-month waiting period for certain knee, cartilage and ACL conditions, with an option to bypass the applicable orthopedic waiting period through a qualifying veterinary examination. Wellness coverage has no waiting period when added to a policy. | Embrace’s published policy terms state: accidents 2 days, illnesses 14 days, orthopedic conditions for dogs 6 months. The orthopedic waiting period may be reduced for some dogs after an eligible orthopedic examination and review by Embrace. Waiting-period requirements can vary depending on the policy and state. |
Dental
How to compare: Injury, illness and routine dental coverage.
| Feature | Fetch | Embrace |
|---|---|---|
| Dental | Fetch provides dental coverage for both dental injuries and dental disease. Its published coverage includes every adult tooth and the gums, including conditions such as periodontal disease, oral tumors, dental trauma, extractions, root canals and other eligible dental procedures. Routine dental cleanings are available through the optional Fetch Wellness coverage. Dental treatment remains subject to the policy’s annual maximum and other applicable terms. | Embrace covers dental accidents under the policy’s annual coverage limit. Dental illness coverage is available up to $1,000 per policy year. Embrace states that an annual dental exam is not required for dental illness coverage. Routine dental care is handled separately through the optional Wellness Rewards program. |
Claims
How to compare: How to file, how long it takes, and payment methods.
| Feature | Fetch | Embrace |
|---|---|---|
| Claims | Fetch uses a reimbursement model. Pet owners pay the veterinarian first, then submit a claim through the Fetch Pet Insurance app or online account. Claims require a paid veterinary invoice and supporting medical records. Fetch states that claims are typically processed in less than 10 days. Once an eligible claim is approved and the deductible has been met, reimbursement can be deposited directly into the policyholder’s bank account. Claims generally must be submitted within 90 days of the veterinary visit. | Embrace uses a reimbursement model. Pet owners can visit any licensed veterinarian, clinic, specialist or emergency practice in the U.S. There are no provider networks. After paying the veterinarian, customers can upload their invoice through the Embrace app or website and track the claim. Embrace currently states that 90% or more of claims are paid within 10 business days, with approved reimbursement deposited directly into the policyholder’s bank account. |
Pros and limitations
Fetch
70%, 80% or 90% reimbursement options. Annual deductible structure. Annual coverage options including $5,000, $10,000, $15,000 and, in some cases, unlimited. No waiting period for accidents. No upper age limit for enrollment. Coverage from 6 weeks of age. Broad dental coverage covering every adult tooth and gums. Sick-visit exam fees included. Behavioral therapy coverage up to $1,000 per year. Hereditary, congenital and breed-specific conditions can be covered. Optional Wellness coverage. Wellness benefits of up to $1,200 per year. Any veterinarian in the U.S. or Canada, including specialists and emergency clinics.
Coverage, pricing, deductible options and annual limits can vary by location and policy. Pre-existing conditions are generally excluded. Illness coverage has a waiting period of up to 15 days. Certain knee and hip conditions have a six-month waiting period unless the applicable requirements for a waiver are met. Wellness coverage is optional and separate from Accident and Illness insurance. Customers must pay the veterinarian upfront before reimbursement. Claims generally must be submitted within 90 days. Fetch uses a reimbursement model rather than paying veterinarians directly.
Embrace
Customizable 70%, 80% or 90% reimbursement. Annual deductible from $100 to $1,000. Customizable annual coverage maximum. Accident-only coverage available for pets 15 and older. Dental illness coverage up to $1,000 per policy year. Hereditary, genetic and breed-specific conditions covered. Optional veterinary exam-fee coverage. Optional Wellness Rewards program. No provider network. Any licensed veterinarian in the U.S. can be used. Mobile and online claim submission. 24/7 pet telehealth support. 90%+ of claims reportedly paid within 10 business days.
Coverage, pricing, limits and options can vary by state. Pre-existing conditions are generally excluded. Dogs have a standard six-month orthopedic waiting period, subject to the applicable waiver process. Wellness Rewards is a separate membership and is not insurance. Dental illness coverage is limited to $1,000 per policy year. Customers must pay the veterinarian first and then seek reimbursement. Accident and illness enrollment has an upper age limit of 15 years.
Who each option may suit
Fetch
Pet owners who want broad accident and illness coverage, flexible reimbursement options, extensive dental coverage, and no upper age limit for enrollment. It may also appeal to owners who want coverage for sick-visit exam fees, behavioral therapy, hereditary and congenital conditions, and optional preventative care through Fetch Wellness. As with any pet insurance policy, review the policy documents available for your location before purchasing, because coverage, pricing, eligibility, waiting periods and available options can vary.
Embrace
Pet owners who want customizable accident and illness coverage, multiple deductible and reimbursement options, dental illness coverage, and the freedom to use any licensed veterinarian without a provider network. It may also appeal to owners who want optional wellness benefits and exam-fee coverage. As with any pet insurance policy, review the policy documents available in your state before purchasing, because coverage, pricing, eligibility, waiting periods and available options can vary.
Whichever you compare, hold the deductible, reimbursement rate and annual limit constant so differences reflect the plans and not the settings.
Frequently asked questions
Is Fetch or Embrace better?
Neither is better for everyone. The right choice depends on your pet’s age and breed, your budget, and which benefits you care about most. Compare the same deductible, reimbursement rate and annual limit for both, then review exclusions and waiting periods.
Which is cheaper, Fetch or Embrace?
Price depends on your pet and the plan settings you choose, so it can differ from one pet to the next. Compare personalized estimates for your pet on identical settings.
Are Fetch and Embrace both available in every state?
Not necessarily. Both Fetch and Embrace state that availability and policy terms vary by state, so check the quote and policy for your state.
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