🥇 Quick Verdict
Nationwide is best for exotic pets (birds, reptiles) but overpriced for cats/dogs vs. Lemonade. Expect:
✔ 100+monthlypremiums∗∗fordogs✔∗∗Onlyinsurercoveringwellnessexams∗∗❌∗∗100+monthlypremiums∗∗fordogs✔∗∗Onlyinsurercoveringwellnessexams∗∗❌∗∗250+ annual deductible
❌ No unlimited payout option
🔍 For most pet owners, Lemonade saves 40% with faster claims (see head-to-head comparison).
📊 Nationwide Pet Insurance: 2024 Plan Breakdown
1. Coverage Options
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Major Medical: Covers accidents/illnesses ($10k annual max)
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Whole Pet: Adds preventive care (unique in industry)
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Exotic Pet: Only insurer covering birds/reptiles
2024 Change: Now excludes pre-existing conditions diagnosed in past 18 months (was 12 months).
2. Costs (Real 2024 Examples)
| Pet Type | Monthly Premium | Deductible | Reimbursement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Retriever (5yo) | $112 | $250 | 70% |
| Domestic Shorthair Cat | $48 | $200 | 90% |
| Bearded Dragon | $29 | $100 | 50% |
*Based on quotes for ZIP 90210. Wellness add-on costs extra 18−18−40/month.*
3. Claims Process
⏳ Time: 10-14 days (slower than Lemonade’s 2-day average)
📱 App: No direct filing – must email forms
💸 Denial Rate: 23% for first-time claims (per 2023 NYDFS data)
🆚 Nationwide vs. Lemonade: Key Differences
(What No Other Review Mentions)
| Feature | Nationwide | Lemonade |
|---|---|---|
| Exotic Pets | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Wellness Coverage | ✅ Included | ❌ Extra $15/mo |
| Mobile Claims | ❌ Email only | ✅ Instant AI review |
| Price (Dog) | $112/mo | $67/mo |
| Policy Flexibility | ❌ 12-mo lock | ✅ Adjust anytime |
🐾 Best For:
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Nationwide → Reptile/avian owners, those needing preventive care coverage
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Lemonade → Dog/cat owners wanting fast, affordable claims (Lemonade full review)
💡 3 Insider Tips to Save
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Bundle Discount: Save 5% if you have Nationwide home/auto insurance
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Annual Payment: Avoid $3/month billing fee
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Pre-Approval Hack: Email petclaims@nationwide.com before vet visits to confirm coverage
🚨 Red Flags (What They Don’t Tell You)
⚠️ Rate Hikes: Premiums increased 17% avg. in 2023 (per CA DOI filings)
⚠️ Exclusions: Hip dysplasia only covered if diagnosed after enrollment
⚠️ Age Limits: No new enrollments for pets over 10 years old
🗨️ Real User Reviews
*”Paid $1,200/year for my Lab, but they denied his ear infection claim citing ‘pre-existing’ despite clean records.”* – Jamie R. (Trustpilot, 6/2024)
*”Only insurer for my parrot’s $3k surgery – reimbursed 80% in 3 weeks.”* – Omar T. (BBB, 5/2024)
❓FAQ (Unique Questions Answered)
Q: Does Nationwide cover euthanasia?
→ Yes, if medically necessary (requires vet documentation).
Q: Can I use any vet?
→ Yes, including specialists (unlike Trupanion’s network restrictions).
Q: How to cancel?
→ Call 888-899-4874 – pro-rated refund takes 4-6 weeks.