Advertiser Disclosure
Nationwide pet insurance review
In 2009, Nationwide acquired Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI), which was founded in 1982 as one of the first pet insurance companies in the U.S. Since then, Nationwide has built on VPI's legacy to become one of the largest and most experienced pet insurance providers in the industry. The insurer gives pet owners coverage options ranging from accident plans to wellness add-ons, giving pets access to the care they need and pet parents a financial safety net when unexpected veterinary expenses arise.
Veterinary costs are increasing, so having pet insurance can be a game-changer for many pet owners. But why choose Nationwide? Here's a deep dive into what this insurance provider has to offer and why it made our list of the best pet insurance companies.
Nationwide
Summary
Annual deductible options: $250, $500 or $1,000
Reimbursement percentage: 50, 70 or 80 percent
Claim turnaround time: Up to 30 days. Complex claims take more time.
Enrollment age: 8 weeks–no upper age limit*
Direct vet pay: No
Note: The information above applies to dogs and cats. For information on coverage for birds or exotic pets, call 1-888-899-4874.
Why Nationwide is the best for insuring exotic pets
Nationwide is one of the few pet insurance companies that offers coverage for exotic pets. Here are examples of the types of animals for which Nationwide offers coverage:
- Birds
- Ferrets
- Frogs
- Goats
- Guinea pigs
- Mini goats
- Mini pigs
- Rabbits
- Reptiles
- Small mammals
This coverage differs from typical pet insurance policies since exotic animals have different health needs than dogs and cats. Our review focuses on typical insurance policies, but pet owners of other animal types can contact Nationwide for more details about exotic pet plans.
Nationwide coverage options
Keep in mind: Early in 2024, Nationwide announced that it will not be renewing around 100,000 pet insurance policies in 2025, blaming the exorbitant costs of veterinary care in the U.S. It seems as though Nationwide is moving away from its former policy options and is limiting plans to accident, accident and illness and two levels of wellness care.
Nationwide pet insurance provides a range of coverage options tailored to the unique needs of pets and the budget of their owners. It offers accident-only, accident and illness, and optional wellness plans to help cover preventive care costs. The different types of pet insurance plans on offer are known for being comprehensive and versatile, covering a wide array of potential health issues.
Nationwide has more pet insurance policies to choose from than the average pet insurer, so here's a closer look at these options.
What Nationwide covers
Below is a list of common treatments Nationwide does and doesn't cover. As with all insurance, there are often terms and conditions that may impact whether your claim for reimbursement will be successful. To avoid disappointment and frustration, reach out to Nationwide's customer service or your broker for the policy details.
What Nationwide does not cover
Like most other pet insurance companies, Nationwide does not cover pre-existing conditions unless they have been cured for six months.
Pre-existing conditions, such as allergies, arthritis, diabetes and epilepsy, refer to illnesses or injuries that were present before coverage started. In addition, conditions such as feline leukemia virus make your pet ineligible for Nationwide’s pet insurance policies.
In addition, Nationwide policies do not cover:
- ACL issues
- Behavioral issues
- Boarding
- Grooming
- Congenital anomalies or developmental disorders*
- Cruciate ligament problems during the coverage waiting period
- Expenses not directly related to veterinary services
- Hereditary disorders*
- Prescription foods
- Waste disposal
*The accident and illness plan has an optional hereditary and congenital coverage add-on.
Further exclusions may apply. To avoid surprises, refer to policy documents for a complete list of exclusions.
Nationwide plans and customizations
In the past, Nationwide offered four different insurance plans for cats and dogs:
- My Pet Protection
- Modular Pet Insurance Plan
- Major Medical®
- Whole Pet
The insurer is shifting toward three types of plans with some optional add-ons for extra coverage. Below, we list some of the conditions covered by the different plans and add-ons. If you are wondering whether a condition not listed below is covered, it's best to reach out to Nationwide for clarification.
Hereditary and congenital coverage add-on
- Collapsed trachea
- Elbow dysplasia
- Hip dysplasia
- Liver shunt
- Medications
- Patellar luxation
- Surgeries
- Wobblers syndrome
Pet insurance for exotic pets
Nationwide is one of the few pet insurance companies to cover exotic pets such as rabbits, birds, ferrets and reptiles. In the past, pet owners could choose from two different policies for exotic pets:
- My Pet Protection
- Whole Pet
At this time, it's unclear what Nationwide's coverage for birds and exotic pets will look like going forward. For more information on buying a pet insurance policy for birds or exotic pets, please call: 1-800-540-2016
Pros and cons
Pros
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Comprehensive coverage options: Nationwide offers plans that cover accidents, illnesses and wellness care, providing extensive protection for pets.
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Exotic pet coverage: Nationwide is unique in offering coverage for exotic pets, which includes reptiles, rodents, birds and small mammals.
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Multi-pet discount: Owners with multiple pets can benefit from discounts, making it more affordable to insure all their pets.
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Nationwide availability: Coverage is available across the United States, making it accessible for pet owners in most regions.
Cons
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Age restrictions: Pets older than age 10 may not be eligible for new enrollment, limiting options for senior pets.
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Exclusions: Certain conditions and treatments are not covered, which may limit the effectiveness of the insurance for some pet owners.
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Company changes: Recent changes make it harder to know what Nationwide's plans are and what coverage will be available in the future.
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Waiting periods: Some conditions have waiting periods before coverage kicks in, potentially delaying treatment.
Additional features of Nationwide
With its 24/7 VetHelpline app and coverage that protects you at home and while traveling, Nationwide prides itself on covering your pets, no matter where you are. Regardless of the policy you select, all pet insurance members can benefit from the following plan features.
Coverage anywhere, anytime
You may use your own vet or visit any licensed veterinarian, emergency vet clinic or veterinary specialist. Nationwide’s coverage is global, so your policy protects you wherever you travel. You can submit claims from any licensed veterinarian, specialist or emergency care provider anywhere in the world.
Nationwide VetHelpline® app
Nationwide offers 24/7 virtual vet care through its VetHelpline® app. Receive advice from licensed veterinary professionals about any concerns about your pet’s health at any time of day or night.
Nationwide PetRxExpress℠
Nationwide members benefit from preferred pricing and automatic claim submission when filling pet prescriptions at Walmart or Sam’s Club pharmacies. You only need to bring your written prescription (or have your vet call it in) and show your digital pet insurance ID card at checkout.
Risk-free cancellation
Nationwide offers risk-free cancellation at any time. If you want a refund, your state may offer a Free Look Period (also known as the right to examine and return a policy), which allows you a limited time to obtain a refund.
You must not have filed a claim under the policy to be eligible. Participating states require you to inform Nationwide of your decision to use the Free Look option within the specified timeframe. Please refer to your policy for more details, as terms may vary by state.
Multiple pet savings
You can save on your pet insurance if you insure multiple pets. You'll save 5 percent on each policy for two or three pets. You'll save ten percent on each pet’s policy for four or more pets.
Exclusions and restrictions
When considering Nationwide pet insurance, it's essential to be aware of any exclusions and restrictions that apply. These limitations can affect coverage availability and the overall suitability of the insurance for your pet's specific needs. Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision and choose the best possible plan for your pet's health and well-being.
Age restrictions
Nationwide has age restrictions for new enrollments, typically accepting pets from eight weeks to eight years old. Existing policyholders can continue coverage beyond this age, but new enrollments for older pets may not accepted for all plans.
Waiting periods
The waiting periods for specific conditions vary from state to state. But in general, Nationwide imposes the following waiting periods:
- Accidents and illnesses: 14-day waiting period
- Cruciate ligament injuries: Up to 12 consecutive months
- Hereditary conditions: Up to 12 consecutive months
- Spay/neuter or dental cleaning: 90-day waiting period
Location restrictions
Nationwide pet insurance is available across the United States. However, coverage and pricing may vary based on location due to differing veterinary costs and regulations.
Nationwide pet insurance costs
Pet insurance costs vary depending on the plan selected, the reimbursement percentage, the annual deductible, the pet’s age and breed and your location.
Typically, premiums start from $16 to $46 per month for dogs and $5 to $46 monthly for cats. Exotic pet insurance prices start at $16 per month but are determined individually based on the species and other factors.
To illustrate how much you might pay with Nationwide, we gathered some sample quotes for illustrative purposes.
| Breed | 2 years old | 5 years old | 8 years old | 10 years old |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
*Sample policies were for a female dog with excellent health in Arizona with the ZIP code 85251. The choices for customization selected were for an accident and illness plan with a $250 deductible, 90 percent reimbursement limit and $5,000 annual benefit limit. The rates listed are for illustrative purposes only. You should contact the company directly for applicable quotes. **Quotes could not be collected through Nationwide's quick quote generator for pets of these ages. |
||||
| French bulldog | $96 | $182 | N/A** | N/A** |
| Labrador retriever | $74 | $108 | N/A** | N/A** |
| Golden retriever | $72 | $107 | N/A** | N/A** |
| German shepherd | $71 | $103 | N/A** | N/A** |
| Poodle | $67 | $101 | N/A** | N/A** |
| Dachshund | $62 | $91 | N/A** | N/A** |
| Breed | 2 years old | 5 years old | 8 years old | 10 years old |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
*Sample policies were for a male cat with excellent health in Arizona with the ZIP code 85251. The choices for customization selected were for an accident and illness plan with a $250 deductible, 90 percent reimbursement limit and $5,000 annual benefit limit. The rates listed are for illustrative purposes only. You should contact the company directly for applicable quotes. **Quotes could not be collected through Nationwide's quick quote generator for pets of these ages. Rates were last gathered and verified December 18, 2024. |
||||
| Ragdoll | $33 | $38 | N/A** | N/A** |
| Maine coon | $49 | $63 | N/A** | N/A** |
| Persian | $49 | $63 | N/A ** | N/A** |
| Exotic | $52 | $69 | N/A** | N/A** |
| Devon rex | $46 | $58 | N/A** | N/A** |
| British shorthair | $49 | $63 | N/A** | N/A** |
How to file a claim with Nationwide
The process of filing a claim with Nationwide is straightforward:
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Visit any licensed vet for treatment.
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Pay for the services out of pocket and collect an itemized invoice.
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Submit the claim through the Nationwide mobile app, website or by mail, including the invoice and a completed claim form.
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Wait for reimbursement, which can take up to 30 days. For complex cases, claims may take longer.
If you sign up at my.petinsurance.com, you can receive your claim reimbursements as a deposit directly to your bank account. If you don’t sign up for electronic reimbursement, Nationwide will send you a check in the mail.
Frequently asked questions
Methodology
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