VCA Animal Hospitals has expanded its preventative care offerings through VCA CareClub Plans, which provide pet owners with an alternative to traditional pet insurance by covering routine veterinary services. These wellness plans are designed to help dog and cat owners manage the cost of preventative care services at VCA Animal Hospital locations across the United States. Unlike conventional pet insurance policies, VCA CareClub Plans focus exclusively on routine care rather than accidents or unexpected illnesses.
The program offers two tiers of coverage: the Access Plan priced at $19.99 per month with basic services, and the Paws Plan with personalized coverage based on a pet’s age, breed, and location. According to VCA, members can save up to 25% annually on routine care costs compared to paying for individual services separately.
How VCA CareClub Plans Differ from Pet Insurance
VCA CareClub Plans operate fundamentally differently from traditional pet insurance products. The wellness plans do not require deductibles, copayments, waiting periods, or annual maximum limits that are standard features of insurance policies. Additionally, members do not need to file claims for reimbursement, as covered services are automatically included when visiting VCA Animal Hospital locations.
However, this convenience comes with significant limitations. The plans specifically exclude coverage for accidents, illnesses, emergency treatments, surgeries, and specialist care—services that traditional pet insurance typically covers. Pet owners can only use their benefits at VCA Animal Hospital facilities, restricting their choice of veterinary providers.
Covered Services and Benefits
Both plan tiers include unlimited wellness, sick, urgent, and emergency exams according to the company. The plans also cover doctor-recommended vaccines, fecal testing, microchipping, and an annual membership to various pet health resources. Members receive access to 24/7 live chat with licensed veterinary professionals through the myVCA mobile app.
The Paws Plan provides more comprehensive coverage with personalized services tailored to individual pet needs. Meanwhile, the Access Plan offers a more budget-conscious entry point for pet owners seeking basic preventative care coverage. Both plans include member discounts on medications, food, supplements, and dental products.
Cost Considerations and Limitations
Pricing for VCA CareClub Plans varies based on the selected tier and, for Paws Plans, on pet-specific factors and geographic location. Some plans require a one-time enrollment fee of $49.99 in addition to monthly premiums. The company does not offer multi-pet discounts, requiring separate plans for each animal—in contrast to many pet insurance providers that offer 5% to 10% discounts for multiple pets.
Plan members are locked into their coverage for one year except in cases of pet loss or relocation. The annual commitment means pet owners cannot cancel during the term, though they may opt out during the renewal period by contacting VCA customer service.
Availability and Access
VCA CareClub Plans are available in all 50 states and Washington D.C. for dogs and cats. Pets do not require a veterinary exam before enrollment, making the sign-up process relatively straightforward. The myVCA mobile app, which has received positive reviews on both the App Store and Google Play Store, allows members to schedule appointments, order prescription refills, and access telehealth services.
Pet owners interested in the program can visit VCA’s website to locate nearby VCA Animal Hospital facilities and compare plan options. For questions about coverage or enrollment, customers can contact VCA’s dedicated CareClub line at 800-743-8838.
As VCA CareClub continues to attract pet owners seeking predictable preventative care costs, the program’s growth will likely depend on whether the savings and convenience outweigh the restrictions on provider choice and coverage scope. The company has not announced plans to expand coverage options or modify the annual commitment requirement.
