If you are shopping for insurance you have probably come across Nationwide. It is one of the names in the industry and it covers more than just dogs and cats.. Being old does not mean it is the best fit for your pet. Here is a straightforward look at what Nationwide offers, where it shines and where it falls short.
A Quick Background
Nationwides pet insurance division started with Veterinary Pet Insurance, which was founded in 1982 as the first pet insurance company in the United States. Nationwide Mutual acquired Veterinary Pet Insurance in 2008. Changed its name to Nationwide in 2015. Today it is backed by a company so you do not have to worry about its financial stability.
That long history is important because Nationwide has had a lot of time to work on covering pets. I will talk about that below.
What Plans Does Nationwide Offer?
Nationwide has a different plans. There is a Pet plan that covers accidents and illnesses including things your pet might be born with. There is also a Pet with Wellness plan that adds routine care like shots and check-ups.. There is a Major Medical plan that uses a fixed schedule instead of paying a percentage of the bill, which is usually cheaper but has a limit on how much it will pay for each condition.
Nationwide also has a plan for birds and exotic pets. This is where Nationwide Pet Insurance really stands out. It covers birds, reptiles, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs and other small animals. No other big pet insurance company in the US has plans like this.
You should know that the plans Nationwide offers can vary depending on where you live. So what you see on their website might not be the story. It is an idea to call them or check their website with your zip code to see what plans are available to you.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of Nationwide Pet Insurance depends on your pets breed, age, where you live and the plan you choose. Some people have said they pay $40 a month for dogs and $20 to $40 a month for cats.. Some people pay a lot more up to $94 a month for dogs and $41 a month for cats. Older pets and certain breeds cost more to insure.
Nationwide plans have a $250 deductible each year. They will pay 50% to 90% of the bill. There is a limit on how much they will pay each year. Usually between $2,500 and $10,000. Nationwide does not offer coverage, which some other companies do.
Where Nationwide Pet Insurance Is Really Good
Nationwide Pet Insurance is great for people who have pets. If you have a bird, reptile or rabbit Nationwide is one of the companies that will insure them with good coverage.
Nationwide also covers things your pet might be born with which not all companies do.
You also get a 24/7 hotline to talk to a vet, which’s really helpful.
If you travel with your pet Nationwide has international coverage, which is not something all companies offer.
Where Nationwide Pet Insurance Falls Short
One thing Nationwide is not great at is being affordable. When you compare prices Nationwide is often more expensive than companies.
It can also take a while to process claims. Some people have said it takes up to 30 days, which’s slower than some other companies.
In 2024 Nationwide did not renew a lot of policies, which was a problem. They said it was because vet bills were getting too expensive. Some people were not happy about it.
Nationwide also does not offer coverage, which means if your pet gets a chronic condition you might reach the limit on your plan.
If your pet is older you might not be able to get a new plan with Nationwide.
What Do Real Customers Say?
Some people really like Nationwide Pet Insurance. Others do not. Nationwide has a rating with the Better Business Bureau but that is because they handle complaints well not because everyone is happy with their service. Some people have said the customer service is good. Others have had problems with claims and slow processing.
Who Should Consider Nationwide Pet Insurance?
If you have a pet Nationwide is a good choice. If your job offers Nationwide as a benefit it might be cheaper than buying it on your own.
If you have a dog or cat you should shop around and compare prices before choosing Nationwide.
The Bottom Line
Nationwide Pet Insurance is not a company. It has a history, good financial backing and some really good plans.. For most people, with dogs and cats it might not be the cheapest or fastest option.. The thing that happened in 2024 with the non-renewals is something to think about.
When you are looking for insurance get a quote from Nationwide and a few other companies and compare them. Make sure you read the print and understand what is covered and what is not.. Remember things can change, so do your own research and do not just take someones word for it.