What Is a Waiting Period?
A waiting period is the time between when your policy starts and when coverage actually begins. During this period, you pay premiums but cannot yet file claims. This prevents people from buying insurance only after their pet becomes ill or injured.
Important: If your pet becomes ill or injured during the waiting period, that condition may be classified as pre-existing — even after the waiting period ends.
Typical Waiting Periods by Provider
| Provider | Accident Coverage | Illness Coverage | Hip Dysplasia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthy Paws | 15 days | 15 days | 12 months |
| Embrace | 2 days | 14 days | 6 months |
| Lemonade | 2 days | 14 days | 6 months |
| Trupanion | 5 days | 30 days | 30 days |
Why Do Hip Dysplasia Waits Exist?
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that some breeds are predisposed to. Providers add extended waiting periods (sometimes up to 12-18 months) because:
- • Breeders might enroll pets right before planned surgeries
- • It's a congenital condition that may not show symptoms immediately
- • Surgery costs can reach $5,000+ per hip
What Happens During the Waiting Period?
During the waiting period:
Your premiums are being collected
Your coverage start date is being counted down
You cannot file any claims
New conditions may be classified as pre-existing
Accidents that occur after enrollment but during wait may be covered after wait ends
Tips to Minimize Waiting Period Gaps
Enroll when you bring your pet home
The younger and healthier your pet when enrolled, the shorter effective wait for coverage.
Compare providers with shorter waits
Embrace and Lemonade offer 2-day accident waits — among the shortest in the industry.
Understand your state's rules
Some states limit maximum waiting periods. Check your state's regulations.
Don't wait for "the right time"
There's never a good time — but tomorrow is always worse than today.
CheckItAll Team
Our editorial team researches and reviews pet insurance providers to help you make informed decisions. We are committed to transparent, unbiased comparisons and may earn compensation from partner links.