Desjardins vs OVMA Pet Health: Pet Insurance Comparison (2026)

A side-by-side comparison of Desjardins and OVMA Pet Health Insurance for Canadian pet owners — coverage, waiting periods, pricing, and which is the better fit for your dog or cat.

Quick Verdict

Desjardins and OVMA Pet Health are evenly matched on our scored factors. Desjardins is best for pet owners who want to bundle with other desjardins insurance or need french-language service, while OVMA Pet Health is best for owners who want a vet-designed plan with premiums that stay flat as their pet ages.

Feature
Desjardins
3.5/5
OVMA Pet Health
3.5/5
Max reimbursement80%80%
Max annual limit$20,000Unlimited
Accident waiting period48 hours48 hours
Illness waiting period14 days14 days
Direct vet pay No No
Exam fees covered No No
Curable pre-existing conditions No No
Avg. monthly cost (dog)$72$100
Available in Quebec Yes Yes
Multi-pet discount5%
Customer rating3.5/53.5/5

Desjardins

Pet owners who want to bundle with other Desjardins insurance or need French-language service

Get Desjardins Quote

OVMA Pet Health

Owners who want a vet-designed plan with premiums that stay flat as their pet ages

Get OVMA Pet Health Quote

Desjardins: Pros & Cons

  • Backed by major Canadian financial institution
  • Bilingual service (English/French)
  • Solid annual limits ($8,000 to $20,000)
  • Bundle discounts with home/auto
  • Available in all provinces including Quebec
  • 6-month waiting period for dental, cruciate, and IVDD conditions
  • Deductible increases with pet's age ($150 to $500)
  • No unlimited coverage option
  • Doesn't cover exam fees
Read full Desjardins review

OVMA Pet Health: Pros & Cons

  • Designed and backed by Ontario's veterinarians
  • Premiums don't increase as your pet ages
  • No maximum enrollment age
  • Dental illness coverage included in all plans
  • Alternative and behavioural therapies included ($350/category)
  • Higher premiums than most competitors
  • Deductible increases with pet's age ($100 to $500)
  • Reimbursement can drop below 80% with heavy claims history
  • Slow claims processing (2-3 weeks)
Read full OVMA Pet Health review

Desjardins vs OVMA Pet Health: FAQ

Is Desjardins or OVMA Pet Health better for pet insurance in Canada?

Desjardins and OVMA Pet Health are closely matched. Desjardins is best for Pet owners who want to bundle with other Desjardins insurance or need French-language service, while OVMA Pet Health is best for Owners who want a vet-designed plan with premiums that stay flat as their pet ages.

Which has a shorter waiting period, Desjardins or OVMA Pet Health?

Desjardins has a 14 days illness waiting period and 48 hours for accidents. OVMA Pet Health has a 14 days illness waiting period and 48 hours for accidents.

Which is cheaper, Desjardins or OVMA Pet Health?

Average monthly premiums for a dog are about $72 with Desjardins and $100 with OVMA Pet Health. Your actual price depends on your pet's age, breed, and location.

Are Desjardins and OVMA Pet Health available in Quebec?

Desjardins is available in Quebec. OVMA Pet Health is available in Quebec.

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