An Post Pet Insurance 2025: Full Review, Costs & Coverage in Ireland
- An Post Guarantees
- An Post Exclusions
- An Post Prices
- An Post Assistance
- Customer Reviews of An Post
- How to contact An Post?
- FAQ
Our expert's opinion on An Post
An Post's pet insurance offers an accessible single-tier Essential policy designed specifically for accident-only cover, with benefits capped at €2,000 per year and per accident, and a standard deductible of €125 (increasing to include a 15% co-payment for pets aged 5 and older).The plan does not provide reimbursement for illness unless directly linked to an accident, meaning its coverage is more restricted than most comprehensive policies from competitors, but its entry price is generally lower and aligns with cost-focused accident plans on the Irish market.This insurance is especially suitable for owners of young, healthy cats and dogs who want affordable protection from unforeseen injuries but do not need extensive illness cover or additional wellness budgets.An Post Insurance is a financially robust provider, with a broad customer base and premium volume as one of Ireland's leading agencies; customer feedback is notably positive, with a 4.7/5 Trustpilot rating based on over 5,200 reviews, highlighting strong customer service and efficient onboarding, while claims are generally handled within a standard timeframe.
- ✅Low-cost accident-only coverage
- ✅Simple policy, easy to understand
- ✅€2,000 annual vet fee limit per accident
- ✅Third-party liability cover for dogs (€250,000)
- ✅24/7 vet helpline included
- ✅Covers EU travel with pet for up to 90 days per year
- ✅Excellent customer reviews (4.7/5 from 5,205 reviews)
- ❌No illness or wellness coverage
- ❌No multi-tier plan options
- ❌High out-of-pocket costs for older pets (15% co-pay)
- ❌Limited dental and routine care reimbursement
- ❌Strict exclusions for pre-existing or hereditary conditions
Score- ✅Low-cost accident-only coverage
- ✅Simple policy, easy to understand
- ✅€2,000 annual vet fee limit per accident
- ✅Third-party liability cover for dogs (€250,000)
- ✅24/7 vet helpline included
- ✅Covers EU travel with pet for up to 90 days per year
- ✅Excellent customer reviews (4.7/5 from 5,205 reviews)
Our expert's opinion on An Post
- ✅Low-cost accident-only coverage
- ✅Simple policy, easy to understand
- ✅€2,000 annual vet fee limit per accident
- ✅Third-party liability cover for dogs (€250,000)
- ✅24/7 vet helpline included
- ✅Covers EU travel with pet for up to 90 days per year
- ✅Excellent customer reviews (4.7/5 from 5,205 reviews)
- ❌No illness or wellness coverage
- ❌No multi-tier plan options
- ❌High out-of-pocket costs for older pets (15% co-pay)
- ❌Limited dental and routine care reimbursement
- ❌Strict exclusions for pre-existing or hereditary conditions
Score- ✅Low-cost accident-only coverage
- ✅Simple policy, easy to understand
- ✅€2,000 annual vet fee limit per accident
- ✅Third-party liability cover for dogs (€250,000)
- ✅24/7 vet helpline included
- ✅Covers EU travel with pet for up to 90 days per year
- ✅Excellent customer reviews (4.7/5 from 5,205 reviews)
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in the Irish market every year, ensuring you receive trusted and impartial analysis. Thanks to this thorough process, thousands of people across Ireland rely on us each month to help them make their most important financial decisions.
An Post Guarantees
An Post offers a single “Essential” plan focused exclusively on accident cover for dogs and cats, with no illness or wellness benefit and a maximum of €2,000 per year for veterinary treatment per accident (12 months’ cover per condition). A per-condition excess of €125 applies, and pets aged 5 or over also incur a 15% co-payment per claim after the excess, which can significantly increase out-of-pocket expense for older animals.
Key strengths include accident and dental cover relating to accidents, robust third party liability for dogs (€250,000 per year), and reimbursement of certain EU travel-related costs.
Major limitations are the absence of any illness, preventive care, wellness, breeding, or alternative medicine benefit—meaning the plan is strictly for sudden accidental injury, not comprehensive health cover.
Vet helpline support is a positive, but overall coverage is limited compared to typical Irish “accident & illness” policies, especially for chronic disease, wellness, and routine care.
| Name of coverage | Essential (12 Month Accident Only Cover) |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Accident-only, basic protection, 12-months per accident |
| Type of coverage | Accident only; no illness, routine, or wellness protection |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 100% minus excess/age-based co-payment |
| Annual reimbursement limit | €2,000 per policy year (accidents only) |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | €125 per condition per year; 15% co-pay for pets age 5+ |
| Age limits for enrollment | 8 weeks to under 8 years at start |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | ❌ |
| Waiting period (illness) | N.C. (no illness coverage) |
| Waiting period (accident) | 48 hours |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ up to maximum eligibility/renewal guidelines |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ accident-related only, up to annual cap |
| Medications | ✅ accident-related only, up to annual cap |
| Hospitalization | ✅ accident-related only |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ accident-related only |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ accident-related only |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ✅ for accident only, if regular check-ups maintained |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | ❌ |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ❌ |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | ✅ EU only, max 30 days per trip, 90 days/year, special conditions |
| Civil liability | ✅ dogs only, up to €250,000/year, ROI only |
| Euthanasia | ✅ for humane relief in covered accident, not cremation/disposal |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ (no cover for cremation/disposal/illness death) |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ❌ |
Important Information Regarding Your Pet Insurance
Dental accident cover is only valid if your pet’s annual dental checks and treatments are up to date.
There is a 48-hour waiting period for accident cover.
Pets aged 5 or older: be aware of the mandatory 15% co-pay, which applies after the fixed excess on every claim.
To find your best price, always compare several accident-only and comprehensive pet insurance plans before subscribing.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!An Post Exclusions
The An Post Essential policy includes a number of common exclusions such as pre-existing conditions, any illnesses (unless caused directly by an accident), and routine or preventive care, which are also typical among accident-only plans.
A key distinction is its clear exclusion of any dental care unless related to an accident and only if annual checkups are up to date, as well as the absence of cover for breeding, pregnancy, and commercial or professional use.
Other notable exclusions include no cover for pets used for guarding, hunting, racing, or those with aggressive tendencies, plus specific breed restrictions for third party liability.
Euthanasia is only covered if for humane relief from accident-related injuries, not for burial or cremation.
These exclusions combine to make the plan more limited than comprehensive accident and illness options, and important details—such as mandatory up-to-date vaccinations—can nullify claims if not strictly observed.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions |
|
| Age and breed exclusions |
|
| Identification/behavior |
|
| Geographic/travel |
|
| Administrative/compliance |
|
| Legal/criminal activity |
|
- Pre
- existing medical conditions
- Illness not caused by accident
- Routine or preventive care (vaccines, exams, microchip, castration, grooming, diets, tick/flea/worm treatments)
- Dental except accident (if annual checks up to date)
- Breeding, pregnancy, giving birth
- Euthanasia only for humane relief after accident, not for disposal or cremation
- Pets under 8 weeks or 8 years and over at start
- No liability cover for breeds listed under Control of Dogs Act or other excluded breeds/crossbreeds
- Aggressive pets or pets trained to attack
- Pets used for commercial activities (security, breeding, racing, hunting, working, therapy, business use)
- No cover outside Republic of Ireland (except EU travel under specific terms)
- Losses outside covered travel periods or in breach of Pet Passport rules
- Failure to check microchip before EU travel
- Claims for injuries/illnesses due to lack of recommended vaccinations
- Claims not submitted within stated deadlines or lacking documentation
- Claims for pets under the minimum age at event
- Injury/illness from war, terrorism, contamination, criminal acts, willful or malicious harm by policyholder
An Post Prices
An Post’s Essential pet policy is among the most affordable on the Irish market but coverage is strictly limited to accidents only, with a modest annual limit (€2,000) and substantial exclusions for illness, chronic conditions, and preventive care.
Its fixed excess and 15% co-payment for pets aged 5+ contribute to lower monthly premiums, but also mean more out-of-pocket costs if claims arise.
Compared to comprehensive plans from competitors, An Post’s pricing reflects its budget positioning, making it appealing for owners wanting basic accident protection at the lowest possible price.
It is not a fully digital pure player, with traditional customer and claims administration; this is typical of many Irish insurers and thus does not yield additional cost savings.
In summary, An Post is affordable but limited, best suited for cost-conscious pet owners who do not require illness cover or extras.
| Essential Accident Only Plan | |
|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | €7–€9/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | €14–€16/month |
| Small breed dog | €11–€13/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | €10–€12/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | €13–€15/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | €19–€22/month |
Consider comparing multiple Irish pet insurance plans to ensure you choose the right level of cover and value for your pet.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!An Post Promo Codes
| An Post Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code |
|
- 5% on your quote
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
What is the An Post reimbursement amount?
With An Post pet insurance (Essential plan), you pay your vet bills up front and are then reimbursed for qualifying accident-related expenses, minus an excess (“deductible”) and, for pets aged 5 years and older, an additional co-payment, up to your annual policy limit.
Reimbursement Example: Broken Leg (Young Dog)
Broken leg from a fall (young dog, under 5 years)
Total vet costs: €800 (consultation, X-rays, surgery and medication)
Excess amount (per accident): €125
Reimbursable amount: €800 – €125 = €675
Reimbursement rate: 100% of €675 (no co-payment for dogs under 5)
👉 You receive €675 from An Post.
ℹ️ The excess is applied per new accident, up to €2,000 annually. Illnesses are not covered.
Car Accident Injury (Senior Cat, Aged 6+ Years)
Total vet costs: €1,500
Excess amount: €125
Co-payment (15%): 15% of €1,375 = €206.25
Out-of-pocket: €125 excess + €206.25 co-payment = €331.25
Covered amount: €1,500 – €331.25 = €1,168.75 reimbursed by An Post
👉 You receive €1,168.75.
ℹ️ Pets aged 5 or older have an additional 15% co-payment after the excess is deducted. Excess and co-payment apply for each accident/condition.
Annual Vaccines Reimbursement (Preventive Care)
Total vet costs: €70
Excess amount: €125
Reimbursable amount: €70 – €125 = negative value
No reimbursement is paid for preventive care costs.
👉 You receive €0.
ℹ️ Routine or preventive care, including vaccines, is not covered by the Essential plan. Reimbursement only applies for accidental injuries.
An Post Assistance
An Post’s assistance offering is limited to a 24/7 telephone vet helpline, which can be valuable for owners needing general pet health or triage advice outside clinic hours.
There is no advance payment system, so policyholders must pay all veterinary fees themselves and claim reimbursement afterward.
No mobile app, digital claims portal, or paperless claim process is provided—claims are made via phone, email, or post.
Payment instalment plans and a network of partner clinics are absent, reflecting a more traditional product.
While travel assistance is available for quarantine, repatriation, and lost passports in the EU, this does not extend to overseas vet care beyond brief, specific scenarios.
| Assistance An Post | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No facility for direct vet payment or Payvet; all vet bills paid by owner upfront. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | Does not offer payment in instalments or premium splitting options. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | N.C.; no reference to an app for claims, status tracking, or policy management. |
| Paperless claims process | ❌ | No digital portal; claims submitted via email, phone, or post. |
| Emergency vet service | ✅ | 24/7 vet helpline (01 913 1067) for advice; not a substitute for in-person care or a teleconsultation. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No network; valid claims accepted for any registered vet. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Covers specific travel events (quarantine, repatriation, lost passport) in EU only; vet fee coverage limited to travel scenarios and policy terms. |
Customer Reviews of An Post
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.7 out of 5 (5,205 reviews) |
We analysed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to An Post for their pets often mention:
- An efficient and helpful customer service, consistently rated for promptness and friendliness.
- Competitive and transparent pricing, with users finding the cost fair for the benefits provided.
- A straightforward set-up and claims process, making it easy for first-time policyholders.
- Clear and polite communication from the support team both at purchase and during claims.
- Excellent reputation and trust due to the An Post brand’s reliability in Ireland.
On the negative side:
- A lack of digital tools such as mobile apps or paperless claims options, leading to slower processes for some.
- A limited range of cover (accident only), with some disappointment about exclusion of illness and preventive care.
- A few complaints related to the communication or complexity of the cancellation procedure.
- Additional charges or higher premiums for older pets, which can surprise policyholders.
- Some users perceive the annual reimbursement limit as a drawback for high-cost incidents.
How to contact An Post?
| An Post Customer Service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Submit your claim by calling 01 681 9156, emailing [email protected], or by post to An Post Claims c/o Davies Group, Suite 11, Fifth Floor, No. 2 Stemple Exchange, Blanchardstown Corporate Park, D15 E4FN. You must provide a completed claim form and all original receipts. You can track your claim status by contacting 01 681 9156 or the same email. Reimbursements are typically paid by bank transfer; processing time varies, usually within a few weeks after claim approval. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request by calling An Post Insurance on 0818 22 22 22, or by email to [email protected]. You should provide your policy number and personal details. Postal address: An Post Insurance, Athlone Business Park, Dublin Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 EF40. |
| To contact assistance | For 24/7 pet health advice, call the Vet Helpline on 01 913 1067. For policy or claims assistance, use 0818 22 22 22 (customer service), 01 681 9156 (claims), or [email protected]. Complaints: [email protected] or 01 697 1619. |
| To cancel my policy | Contact An Post Insurance on 0818 22 22 22 or email [email protected]. Prepare your policy number and reason for cancellation. A written notice may be requested (by post or email). Postal address: An Post Insurance, Athlone Business Park, Dublin Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 EF40. Any unused premium will be refunded if eligible; notice period depends on your policy terms. |
You must provide a completed claim form and all original receipts.
You can track your claim status by contacting 01 681 9156 or the same email.
Reimbursements are typically paid by bank transfer; processing time varies, usually within a few weeks after claim approval.
You should provide your policy number and personal details.
Postal address: An Post Insurance, Athlone Business Park, Dublin Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 EF40.
For policy or claims assistance, use 0818 22 22 22 (customer service), 01 681 9156 (claims), or [email protected].
Complaints: [email protected] or 01 697 1619.
Prepare your policy number and reason for cancellation. A written notice may be requested (by post or email).
Postal address: An Post Insurance, Athlone Business Park, Dublin Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 EF40.
Any unused premium will be refunded if eligible; notice period depends on your policy terms.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with An Post?
Yes, you must pay your vet directly and then submit a claim to An Post for reimbursement. An Post does not offer an advance payment or third-party payment system, meaning you need to settle the invoice yourself and claim back the eligible amount under your policy. Make sure to keep the original receipts and fill out the claim form accurately. Once your claim is processed and approved, An Post will reimburse you by your chosen payment method.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with An Post?
To cancel your An Post pet insurance policy, contact their customer service team by phone or email, giving the required written notice (usually at least 14 days). You’ll need to provide your policy number, personal details, and a clear statement of your wish to cancel. If eligible, An Post will refund any unused premium after cancellation. Cancellations and refunds are subject to the terms set out in your policy documentation.
What does An Post pet insurance actually cover?
An Post pet insurance covers veterinary fees for treatment needed due to accidents (not illnesses), third-party liability (dogs only), emergency repatriation, quarantine costs, and replacement of a lost pet passport during EU travel. The policy limit for accident-related veterinary fees is €2,000 per policy period, and there are sub-limits for travel and liability benefits. Preventive care, routine procedures, and illness unrelated to accidents are not included in the policy.
Are there any age or breed restrictions for taking out an An Post pet insurance policy?
Yes, cover is only available for cats and dogs aged at least 8 weeks but less than 8 years old at the date of policy inception (renewals may differ). Certain breeds such as those named in the Irish Control of Dogs Act or with aggressive histories are not eligible for third-party liability cover. It’s important to check the policy exclusions to ensure your pet qualifies.
Can I get help or advice if my pet is unwell but it’s not an emergency?
An Post provides a free 24/7 vet helpline staffed by registered veterinary nurses. You can call 01 913 1067 for advice on your pet’s health, minor injuries, symptoms, or general wellbeing questions. While this service doesn’t replace a direct vet examination, it’s useful for quick guidance if you are unsure about next steps for your pet’s care.
How do I make and track a claim with An Post?
To make a claim, download and complete the claim form from An Post’s provider, attach original veterinary receipts, and submit it by email, post, or phone. Claims are typically processed by the claims administrator, Davies Group, and you can contact them at [email protected] or on 01 681 9156. You may follow up to track your claim’s progress and will be notified once a decision or payment is issued.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with An Post?
Yes, you must pay your vet directly and then submit a claim to An Post for reimbursement. An Post does not offer an advance payment or third-party payment system, meaning you need to settle the invoice yourself and claim back the eligible amount under your policy. Make sure to keep the original receipts and fill out the claim form accurately. Once your claim is processed and approved, An Post will reimburse you by your chosen payment method.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with An Post?
To cancel your An Post pet insurance policy, contact their customer service team by phone or email, giving the required written notice (usually at least 14 days). You’ll need to provide your policy number, personal details, and a clear statement of your wish to cancel. If eligible, An Post will refund any unused premium after cancellation. Cancellations and refunds are subject to the terms set out in your policy documentation.
What does An Post pet insurance actually cover?
An Post pet insurance covers veterinary fees for treatment needed due to accidents (not illnesses), third-party liability (dogs only), emergency repatriation, quarantine costs, and replacement of a lost pet passport during EU travel. The policy limit for accident-related veterinary fees is €2,000 per policy period, and there are sub-limits for travel and liability benefits. Preventive care, routine procedures, and illness unrelated to accidents are not included in the policy.
Are there any age or breed restrictions for taking out an An Post pet insurance policy?
Yes, cover is only available for cats and dogs aged at least 8 weeks but less than 8 years old at the date of policy inception (renewals may differ). Certain breeds such as those named in the Irish Control of Dogs Act or with aggressive histories are not eligible for third-party liability cover. It’s important to check the policy exclusions to ensure your pet qualifies.
Can I get help or advice if my pet is unwell but it’s not an emergency?
An Post provides a free 24/7 vet helpline staffed by registered veterinary nurses. You can call 01 913 1067 for advice on your pet’s health, minor injuries, symptoms, or general wellbeing questions. While this service doesn’t replace a direct vet examination, it’s useful for quick guidance if you are unsure about next steps for your pet’s care.
How do I make and track a claim with An Post?
To make a claim, download and complete the claim form from An Post’s provider, attach original veterinary receipts, and submit it by email, post, or phone. Claims are typically processed by the claims administrator, Davies Group, and you can contact them at [email protected] or on 01 681 9156. You may follow up to track your claim’s progress and will be notified once a decision or payment is issued.
