Nationwide Pet Insurance Review 2025: Is It Worth It?
Our expert's opinion on Nationwide
Nationwide offers three core pet plans — Major Medical, Major Medical with Wellness, and Whole Pet — focused on accident and illness protection with an optional preventive wellness bundle.
Standard veterinary services such as emergency care, consultations, surgery, imaging, lab tests, radiotherapy and specialist consultations are included across plans, and alternative medicine is covered when prescribed by a veterinarian.
Reimbursement rates, annual limits, deductibles and specific wellness budgets vary by chosen plan and options, with the Major Medical with Wellness explicitly covering vaccinations, parasite treatments, neutering, identification and dental cleaning as preventive benefits; compared with major competitors, Nationwide emphasizes a broad plan mix, a stand‑alone wellness option and competitive entry pricing for younger pets while leaning on bundled telehealth access and straightforward claims handling.
Best suited for owners of young to middle‑aged dogs and cats who want flexible preventive add‑ons, 24/7 telehealth and broad accident-and-illness protection.
Policies are administered by DVM Insurance Agency; Nationwide’s pet insurance profile carries a 4.4/5 Trustpilot rating from 2,031 reviews, with customers praising knowledgeable representatives, easy sign-up, straightforward claims submission and generally quick reimbursements, while common criticisms note pre-existing exclusions and occasional enrollment confusion.
- ✅Three plan choices including a wellness add-on
- ✅Preventive care in Wellness plan: vaccines, neutering, parasite treatment
- ✅Broad accident and illness coverage including specialist care
- ✅24/7 VetHelpline telehealth included at no extra cost
- ✅Alternative medicine covered if prescribed by a veterinarian
- ✅Competitive pricing for younger pets in sample rate tables
- ✅Generally positive customer feedback on claims handling
- ❌Pre-existing conditions excluded with lookback rules
- ❌12-month waiting period for cruciate/meniscal conditions
- ❌No coverage for boarding, many non-medical fees
- ❌Dental and hygiene benefits limited to the wellness plan
- ❌Customer reports of enrollment confusion and premium concerns
Score- ✅Three plan choices including a wellness add-on
- ✅Preventive care in Wellness plan: vaccines, neutering, parasite treatment
- ✅Broad accident and illness coverage including specialist care
- ✅24/7 VetHelpline telehealth included at no extra cost
- ✅Alternative medicine covered if prescribed by a veterinarian
- ✅Competitive pricing for younger pets in sample rate tables
- ✅Generally positive customer feedback on claims handling
Our expert's opinion on Nationwide
- ✅Three plan choices including a wellness add-on
- ✅Preventive care in Wellness plan: vaccines, neutering, parasite treatment
- ✅Broad accident and illness coverage including specialist care
- ✅24/7 VetHelpline telehealth included at no extra cost
- ✅Alternative medicine covered if prescribed by a veterinarian
- ✅Competitive pricing for younger pets in sample rate tables
- ✅Generally positive customer feedback on claims handling
- ❌Pre-existing conditions excluded with lookback rules
- ❌12-month waiting period for cruciate/meniscal conditions
- ❌No coverage for boarding, many non-medical fees
- ❌Dental and hygiene benefits limited to the wellness plan
- ❌Customer reports of enrollment confusion and premium concerns
Score- ✅Three plan choices including a wellness add-on
- ✅Preventive care in Wellness plan: vaccines, neutering, parasite treatment
- ✅Broad accident and illness coverage including specialist care
- ✅24/7 VetHelpline telehealth included at no extra cost
- ✅Alternative medicine covered if prescribed by a veterinarian
- ✅Competitive pricing for younger pets in sample rate tables
- ✅Generally positive customer feedback on claims handling
Why trust Hellosafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in the Canadian market each year, providing you with trustworthy and unbiased analysis.
Thanks to our careful approach, hundreds of thousands of Canadians rely on us every month to help guide their most important financial decisions.
Nationwide Guarantees
Nationwide offers three main pet insurance plans positioned to cover a broad range of owner needs: Major Medical (core accident & illness protection), Major Medical with Wellness (adds preventive/wellness benefits), and Whole Pet (an alternative core accident & illness configuration). These plans focus on veterinary care for injuries and illnesses, with emergency care, consultations, surgery, imaging, lab tests and specialist consultations included across the range; some preventive items (vaccinations, dental cleaning, parasite treatments, neutering) are available only when the wellness option is selected. Deductible and reimbursement specifics, as well as annual limits and lifetime cover details, are plan attributes that vary by configuration; waiting periods apply for certain conditions, and specific long waiting periods are in place for cruciate ligament/meniscal damage. Coverage design places practical limits on routine and elective services unless the wellness package is purchased; boarding fees and many non-medical items are excluded across the plans. Alternative medicine is accepted when prescribed by a veterinarian for a covered condition. The insurer provides 24/7 virtual telehealth access (VetHelpline) to members at no extra cost, which is a notable support feature for urgent advice and initial triage.
Strengths include comprehensive diagnostic and specialist access, inclusion of radiotherapy and emergency care across plans, and a wellness tier that brings routine preventive items into scope. Weaknesses to bear in mind are explicit exclusions for pre-existing conditions and specific waiting-period exclusions for knee injuries, routine hygiene and many non-medical expenses, and the absence of boarding-fee coverage.
| Major Medical | Major Medical with Wellness | Whole Pet | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Core accident & illness | Core accident & illness with added wellness | Core accident & illness |
| Type of coverage | Accident & illness | Accident, illness & wellness | Accident & illness |
| Animals covered | Dogs, cats | Dogs, cats | Dogs, cats |
| Reimbursement rate | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Annual reimbursement limit | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Age limits for enrollment | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Waiting periods (accident / illness) | N.C. / 12 months (cruciate/meniscal damage) | N.C. / 12 months (cruciate/meniscal damage) | N.C. / 12 months (cruciate/meniscal damage) |
| Lifetime coverage | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Consultations | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Medications | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Hospitalization | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Surgery | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Diagnostic tests (imaging, lab) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dental care (cleaning) | No | Yes | N.C. |
| Preventive care (vaccinations, parasite) | No | Yes | N.C. |
| Alternative medicine | Yes (if prescribed by a vet for a covered condition) | Yes (if prescribed by a vet for a covered condition) | Yes (if prescribed by a vet for a covered condition) |
| Travel coverage (care abroad) | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Civil liability | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Euthanasia | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Death & cremation coverage | N.C. / N.C. | N.C. / N.C. | N.C. / N.C. |
| Theft or loss + search expenses | N.C. | N.C. | N.C. |
| Boarding fees | No | No | No |
Nationwide’s exclusions are typical for accident & illness products: pre-existing conditions are excluded, defined as conditions that began, were contracted, manifested, or were incurred up to 12 months before the policy effective date or during any waiting period. Specific waiting‑period exclusions apply to cruciate ligament and meniscal damage for the first 12 months of coverage. Behavioral training and non‑veterinary treatments are excluded unless performed by a licensed veterinarian under a covered indication.
Key limitations include routine and elective services being out of scope on base plans (vaccinations, parasite prevention, routine dental) unless a wellness tier is purchased; non‑medical items and ancillary fees (boarding, transport, grooming, bedding, toys, administrative fees) are not reimbursed; experimental, investigational, or illegal‑substance treatments are excluded; and costs related to breeding and elective cosmetic procedures are not covered. Policyholders should review plan-specific deductible, reimbursement rate and annual limit choices when selecting a configuration to ensure coverage aligns with expected veterinary care needs.
Nationwide Exclusions
Nationwide's exclusions concentrate on standard medical exceptions such as pre-existing conditions, specific orthopedic waiting periods, and exclusion of routine or elective procedures that are not medically necessary.
Notably, a 12‑month exclusion for cruciate ligament and meniscal damage is applied, which is more restrictive than many competitors that use shorter orthopedic waiting periods.
Non‑medical items and fees—boarding, transportation, grooming, bedding, toys, administrative charges, and disposal fees—are excluded, as are non‑prescription foods, treats, and supplements; experimental or investigational treatments and substances illegal under federal law are also barred.
Intentional or owner‑caused injuries and illnesses occurring outside the United States are excluded, and behavioral treatments or obedience training are not covered unless provided by a licensed veterinarian under narrow conditions.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | Pre‑existing conditions; chronic or bilateral conditions manifesting before policy effective date; conditions contracted, manifested, or treated up to 12 months prior. |
| Waiting period & condition‑specific | 12‑month exclusion for cruciate ligament and meniscal damage; condition‑specific waiting periods apply. |
| Cosmetic & elective procedures | Costs related to breeding; elective and cosmetic surgeries such as declawing, ear cropping, and tail docking. |
| Behavioral & training | Behavioral training and non‑veterinary therapy excluded; obedience training not covered. |
| Non‑medical & administrative | Boarding, transportation, grooming, bedding, toys, administrative fees, waste disposal, record copying, taxes, and bank charges. |
| Food & nutrition | Non‑prescription pet food, treats, raw or custom diets excluded; only prescribed therapeutic diets considered under policy terms. |
| Experimental & illegal substances | Experimental or investigational treatments excluded; substances illegal under federal law (e.g., cannabis) excluded. |
| Major events & intentional acts | Losses due to war, rebellion, or nuclear radiation excluded; intentional acts by the owner excluded. |
| Geographic exclusions | Illness or injury occurring outside the United States are excluded. |
Prices Nationwide
Nationwide’s pricing in 2025 sits broadly in the mid‑range segment with some offerings that push toward premium positioning for older pets or more comprehensive coverage. The product lineup — Major Medical, Major Medical with Wellness, and Whole Pet — lets buyers trade off price for additional services; wellness add‑ons and a Whole Pet option typically increase monthly premiums while expanding routine and preventive benefits. Reimbursement rates, deductible levels, and annual coverage limits (set at plan selection) are the main levers that determine competitiveness: lower deductibles and higher reimbursement percentages raise premiums, while higher deductibles and stricter annual caps reduce them.
Key differentiators that influence Nationwide’s price perception include an integrated digital telehealth service (VetHelpline) available 24/7 for members, wellness package options that bundle preventive services, and coverage features such as radiotherapy availability on major plans. These elements create added value compared with more traditional players that may not include telehealth or structured wellness bundles, while the overall cost positioning reflects a balance between digital service efficiency and broader benefit scope.
To help you find the best match between your needs and budget, compare the monthly estimated prices by profile below.
| Profile of the animal | Major Medical | Major Medical with Wellness | Whole Pet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog Labrador 1 year | $56.99 | $80.59 | $81.26 |
| Dog Labrador 3 years | $63.26 | $86.26 | $91.09 |
| Dog Labrador 7 years | $123.10 | $146.70 | N.C. |
| Dog Australian Shepherd 1 year | $38.23 | $59.25 | $61.83 |
| Dog Australian Shepherd 3 years | $42.43 | $66.03 | $67.07 |
| Dog Australian Shepherd 7 years | $87.57 | $106.17 | N.C. |
| Dog French Bulldog 1 year | $56.72 | $80.32 | $101.75 |
| Dog French Bulldog 3 years | $62.96 | $86.56 | $121.20 |
| Dog French Bulldog 7 years | $122.52 | $146.12 | N.C. |
| Cat European Shorthair 1 year | $24.59 | $48.19 | $42.66 |
| Cat European Shorthair 3 years | $25.08 | $48.68 | $53.52 |
| Cat European Shorthair 7 years | $47.45 | $71.05 | $81.37 |
| Cat Maine Coon 1 year | $27.87 | $51.47 | $40.03 |
| Cat Maine Coon 3 years | $28.43 | $52.03 | $50.23 |
| Cat Maine Coon 7 years | $53.80 | $77.40 | $76.37 |
| Cat British Shorthair 1 year | $25.18 | $48.78 | $44.04 |
| Cat British Shorthair 3 years | $25.68 | $49.28 | $55.26 |
| Cat British Shorthair 7 years | $48.60 | $72.28 | $84.02 |
Nationwide Promo Codes
| Nationwide 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.
How much will I be reimbursed with Nationwide?
Nationwide reimburses a percentage of eligible veterinary expenses after your annual deductible is applied; the reimbursement equals your chosen reimbursement rate multiplied by the eligible balance remaining after the deductible.
✅ Example 1: Emergency cruciate ligament surgery
Total vet costs: $4,500 (surgery, anesthesia, hospitalization, imaging, medications)
Deductible amount to subtract: $250 (annual deductible not yet met)
Amount reimbursable after deductible with the Major Medical with Wellness plan: $4,500 – $250 = $4,250
80% of that amount reimbursed: $4,250 × 80% = $3,400
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $3,400.
ℹ️ *The deductible applies once per policy year; once met, subsequent eligible claims are processed at your reimbursement rate.*
✅ Example 2: Acute pancreatitis hospitalization
Total vet costs: $1,200 (ER visit, diagnostics, IV fluids, medications, 24‑hour care)
Deductible amount to subtract: $0 (deductible already met earlier in the policy year)
Amount reimbursable after deductible with the Major Medical with Wellness plan: $1,200 – $0 = $1,200
80% of that amount reimbursed: $1,200 × 80% = $960
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $960.
ℹ️ *Reimbursements are paid on eligible items only and are subject to the terms and exclusions of your plan.*
✅ Example 3: Annual wellness visit and vaccinations
Total vet costs: $150 (exam, core vaccines, routine parasite check)
Deductible amount to subtract: $0 (wellness services are typically handled through the wellness portion and are often not subject to the medical deductible)
Amount reimbursable after deductible with the Major Medical with Wellness plan: $150 – $0 = $150
80% of that amount reimbursed: $150 × 80% = $120
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $120.
ℹ️ *Wellness benefits, limits, and whether a deductible applies vary by plan; verify your wellness coverage and any annual caps on preventive care.*
Nationwide Assistance
Nationwide provides an important 24/7 telehealth service through the VetHelpline app included at no additional cost, giving members immediate triage and licensed veterinary advice for urgent concerns.
Policyholders also report generally fast and straightforward claims handling and timely reimbursements, which reduces the short-term financial burden after costly procedures.
There is no clear advance-payment or clinic direct-billing program for vet bills, so owners should expect to pay upfront and seek reimbursement.
Legal and psychological support are limited or not available, and international coverage parameters are not publicly detailed, which may matter for owners who travel frequently.
| Assistance Nationwide | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No standard clinic advance-pay program (Payvet/Petcard/CareCredit) is advertised. Owners should plan to pay the clinic and submit claims for reimbursement. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No advertised installment or fee-free split-payment options for vet bills or premium payments. Payment plan availability must be checked directly with billing clinics. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | VetHelpline app is available and included at no extra cost to members. App rating (Android/iOS): N.C. App functionality: 24/7 telehealth access; policy management features N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Customers report straightforward claims submission and fast reimbursements. Electronic claim submission is supported, enabling digital reimbursements. |
| Emergency vet service | ✅ | 24/7 virtual telehealth via VetHelpline provides urgent triage and veterinary advice. Not a substitute for in-person emergency treatment when required. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No nationwide partner clinic direct-billing network is advertised. Members typically use any licensed veterinarian and submit claims for reimbursement. |
| Coverage abroad | ❌ | Care abroad status: N.C. International or travel coverage details are not publicly detailed for routine use abroad. |
Owners should plan to pay the clinic and submit claims for reimbursement.
Payment plan availability must be checked directly with billing clinics.
App rating (Android/iOS): N.C.
App functionality: 24/7 telehealth access; policy management features N.C.
Electronic claim submission is supported, enabling digital reimbursements.
Not a substitute for in-person emergency treatment when required.
Members typically use any licensed veterinarian and submit claims for reimbursement.
International or travel coverage details are not publicly detailed for routine use abroad.
Customer reviews on Nationwide
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.4/5 (2,031 reviews) |
Customers most frequently praise Nationwide for helpful, knowledgeable representatives and an easy sign‑up process, and many reports highlight straightforward claim submission and timely reimbursements that reduce short‑term financial stress. Several reviewers also note competitive plan options and a sense of reliability when handling substantial veterinary bills, which contributes to overall peace of mind for policyholders.
Conversely, recurring concerns center on the strict application of pre‑existing condition exclusions and occasional confusion during enrollment or plan confirmation, issues that can leave owners feeling uncertain about coverage scope. Some customers also report dissatisfaction with premium increases over time and intermittent delays in invoice processing before reimbursements are issued.
Here are some examples of customer reviews:
- *E., 02/09/2025 — "Agent was very well versed in the Pet Insurance coverage for my 2 cats. He answered all my questions and made sure all my questions were answered."*
- *LT., 20/08/2025 — "Nationwide is an excellent Pet Insurance company. They are very informative and make the members and pets very happy."*
- *C., 26/08/2025 — "Telling your customers that their dog would not be covered for any pre-existing conditions is a horrible business model..."*
Contact Nationwide
| Nationwide 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 | Contact the policy administrator to request claim submission instructions and tracking details: Phone: 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555. Mailing address for correspondence: DVM Insurance Agency, 1800 E. Imperial Highway, Suite 145, Brea, CA 92821. Required documents: N.C. Deadlines to submit claims: N.C. Reimbursement method (direct deposit/check): N.C. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request a certificate by contacting the administrator by phone or by postal mail at the address above. Accepted channels for certificate requests: Phone and postal mail. Required information to request a certificate (policy number, pet details, ID): N.C. Expected turnaround time: N.C. |
| To contact assistance | Phone: 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555. Postal mail: DVM Insurance Agency, 1800 E. Imperial Highway, Suite 145, Brea, CA 92821. 24/7 telemedicine access for members: VetHelpline app (unlimited virtual telehealth). Email contact: N.C. Customer portal / online chat: N.C. Customer service hours: N.C. |
| To cancel my policy | For cancellation, contact the administrator to request the formal cancellation procedure: Phone: 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555. Mail cancellation requests to: DVM Insurance Agency, 1800 E. Imperial Highway, Suite 145, Brea, CA 92821. Required information to process cancellation (policy number, policyholder details): N.C. Deadlines or notice periods: N.C. Refund conditions and prorated premium handling: N.C. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Nationwide?
N.C.
Contact DVM Insurance Agency at 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555 to confirm direct-pay or third‑party payment options.
Keep itemized invoices and proof of payment for any claim submission.
Use the VetHelpline app for clinical guidance before incurring large emergency costs.
Ask customer service how reimbursements are issued and what documentation they require.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Nationwide?
To cancel, contact the administrator by phone at 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555 or send a written request to DVM Insurance Agency, 1800 E. Imperial Highway, Suite 145, Brea, CA 92821.
Provide your policy number, policyholder name, and a signed cancellation request.
Confirm whether cancellation must be mailed, emailed, or can be processed by phone.
Ask about effective date, prorated refunds, and any notice periods when you submit the request.
What waiting periods apply to Nationwide pet insurance?
A specific 12‑month waiting period applies to cruciate ligament and meniscal damage for all plan options.
Waiting periods for other illnesses and for accidents can vary by plan and circumstance.
Confirm the exact accident and illness waiting periods on your policy schedule before treatment.
Pre-existing conditions and symptoms prior to the policy effective date are excluded from coverage.
How do reimbursement rates, annual limits and deductibles work?
Reimbursement levels and annual limits differ by plan (Major Medical, Major Medical with Wellness, Whole Pet) and are shown on your policy documents.
Deductible structure and reimbursement percentage should be confirmed at enrollment and on your declarations page.
Nationwide offers coverage for consultations, surgery, imaging and specialist care under the applicable plan.
Ask customer service for a clear example calculation using your plan’s deductible and reimbursement percentage to estimate out‑of‑pocket costs.
What are the main exclusions I should watch for?
Pre‑existing conditions, breeding and elective procedures, routine preventive care, and experimental treatments are excluded unless specifically endorsed.
Dental cleanings, general food and supplements, and many non‑medical fees (boarding, grooming, transport) are not covered.
Conditions arising from professional or commercial use, war, or nuclear events are excluded.
Review exclusion definitions carefully to understand hereditary, congenital, and bilateral condition rules.
How can I access veterinary assistance or telehealth through Nationwide?
Nationwide members have unlimited 24/7 virtual pet telehealth access via the VetHelpline app at no additional cost.
VetHelpline connects you to licensed veterinary professionals for clinical advice and triage.
Download the VetHelpline app and verify access with your Nationwide membership details.
For non‑clinical issues or policy questions, contact DVM Insurance Agency at the phone numbers above.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Nationwide?
N.C.
Contact DVM Insurance Agency at 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555 to confirm direct-pay or third‑party payment options.
Keep itemized invoices and proof of payment for any claim submission.
Use the VetHelpline app for clinical guidance before incurring large emergency costs.
Ask customer service how reimbursements are issued and what documentation they require.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Nationwide?
To cancel, contact the administrator by phone at 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555 or send a written request to DVM Insurance Agency, 1800 E. Imperial Highway, Suite 145, Brea, CA 92821.
Provide your policy number, policyholder name, and a signed cancellation request.
Confirm whether cancellation must be mailed, emailed, or can be processed by phone.
Ask about effective date, prorated refunds, and any notice periods when you submit the request.
What waiting periods apply to Nationwide pet insurance?
A specific 12‑month waiting period applies to cruciate ligament and meniscal damage for all plan options.
Waiting periods for other illnesses and for accidents can vary by plan and circumstance.
Confirm the exact accident and illness waiting periods on your policy schedule before treatment.
Pre-existing conditions and symptoms prior to the policy effective date are excluded from coverage.
How do reimbursement rates, annual limits and deductibles work?
Reimbursement levels and annual limits differ by plan (Major Medical, Major Medical with Wellness, Whole Pet) and are shown on your policy documents.
Deductible structure and reimbursement percentage should be confirmed at enrollment and on your declarations page.
Nationwide offers coverage for consultations, surgery, imaging and specialist care under the applicable plan.
Ask customer service for a clear example calculation using your plan’s deductible and reimbursement percentage to estimate out‑of‑pocket costs.
What are the main exclusions I should watch for?
Pre‑existing conditions, breeding and elective procedures, routine preventive care, and experimental treatments are excluded unless specifically endorsed.
Dental cleanings, general food and supplements, and many non‑medical fees (boarding, grooming, transport) are not covered.
Conditions arising from professional or commercial use, war, or nuclear events are excluded.
Review exclusion definitions carefully to understand hereditary, congenital, and bilateral condition rules.
How can I access veterinary assistance or telehealth through Nationwide?
Nationwide members have unlimited 24/7 virtual pet telehealth access via the VetHelpline app at no additional cost.
VetHelpline connects you to licensed veterinary professionals for clinical advice and triage.
Download the VetHelpline app and verify access with your Nationwide membership details.
For non‑clinical issues or policy questions, contact DVM Insurance Agency at the phone numbers above.
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