When comparing Nationwide Pet Insurance and Pets Best, both are reputable providers in the pet insurance industry, but they have distinct features, coverage options, and pricing structures. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which might be better for your needs:
1. Coverage Options
Nationwide Pet Insurance
- Comprehensive Coverage: Nationwide is one of the few providers that offers a major medical plan and a whole pet plan.
- Whole Pet Plan: Cills accidents, illnesses, and wellness care (e.g., vaccinations, flea prevention, and annual exams).
- Major Medical Plan: Focuses on accidents and illnesses but excludes routine care.
- Exotic Pets: Nationwide is unique in offering coverage for exotic pets, such as birds, reptiles, and small mammals.
- Hereditary and Chronic Conditions: Covered under both plans.
- Wellness Add-On: Available for routine care.
Pets Best
- Accident and Illness Plans: Offers three tiers of coverage (Essential, Plus, and Elite) with varying reimbursement levels and annual limits.
- Accident-Only Plan: A budget-friendly option for emergency injuries.
- Wellness Add-On: Available for routine care (e.g., vaccinations, dental cleanings).
- Hereditary and Chronic Conditions: Covered under all plans.
- No Exotic Pet Coverage: Focuses solely on cats and dogs.
2. Reimbursement and Deductibles
Nationwide
- Reimbursement: 50%, 70%, or 90% (depending on the plan).
- Deductibles: Annual deductibles range from 100to100to250.
- Annual Limits: Varies by plan, with options for unlimited coverage under the Whole Pet Plan.
Pets Best
- Reimbursement: 70%, 80%, or 90% (depending on the plan).
- Deductibles: Annual deductibles range from 50to50to1,000 (flexible options).
- Annual Limits: Options include 5,000,5,000,10,000, or unlimited coverage.
3. Pricing
Nationwide
- Average Cost: Nationwide tends to be more expensive, especially for the Whole Pet Plan, which includes wellness coverage.
- Factors Affecting Cost: Age, breed, location, and coverage level.
Pets Best
- Average Cost: Generally more affordable than Nationwide, with flexible pricing based on deductible and reimbursement choices.
- Factors Affecting Cost: Age, breed, location, and coverage level.
4. Waiting Periods
Nationwide
- Accidents: 14 days.
- Illnesses: 14 days.
- Orthopedic Conditions: 12 months (can be reduced to 6 months with a vet exam).
Pets Best
- Accidents: 3 days.
- Illnesses: 14 days.
- Orthopedic Conditions: 6 months (can be reduced to 3 days with a vet exam).
5. Customer Service and Reputation
Nationwide
- Pros: Long-standing reputation (one of the oldest pet insurers in the U.S.), unique exotic pet coverage, and comprehensive wellness options.
- Cons: Higher premiums, limited customization for dogs and cats, and mixed customer reviews about claims processing.
Pets Best
- Pros: Affordable pricing, fast claims processing (often within days), and flexible plans.
- Cons: No exotic pet coverage, and some customers report issues with claim denials for pre-existing conditions.
6. Claims Process
Nationwide
- Claims Submission: Online, via mail, or through the mobile app.
- Processing Time: Typically 10–14 days.
Pets Best
- Claims Submission: Online or through the mobile app.
- Processing Time: Often within 5–7 days, with direct deposit options for faster reimbursement.
7. Additional Benefits
Nationwide
- 24/7 Vet Helpline: Access to veterinary professionals for advice.
- Multi-Pet Discount: Available for insuring multiple pets.
Pets Best
- 24/7 Vet Helpline: Free access to veterinary professionals.
- Multi-Pet Discount: Available for insuring multiple pets.
- Direct Vet Pay: Option for vets to be paid directly, reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Comparison Summary
| Feature | Nationwide Pet Insurance | Pets Best |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage for Exotics | Yes | No |
| Wellness Coverage | Included in Whole Pet Plan | Add-on available |
| Reimbursement | 50%, 70%, or 90% | 70%, 80%, or 90% |
| Deductibles | 100–100–250 | 50–50–1,000 |
| Annual Limits | Varies (unlimited option) | 5K,5K,10K, or unlimited |
| Waiting Periods | 14 days (accidents/illnesses) | 3 days (accidents), 14 days (illnesses) |
| Average Cost | Higher | More affordable |
| Claims Processing | 10–14 days | 5–7 days |
Which is Better?
- Choose Nationwide if:
- You have an exotic pet.
- You want comprehensive wellness coverage included.
- You’re willing to pay higher premiums for a well-established provider.
- Choose Pets Best if:
- You want affordable, customizable plans.
- You prefer fast claims processing and flexible deductibles.
- You only need coverage for cats and dogs.
Both providers are strong options, so your choice will depend on your pet’s needs, your budget, and the type of coverage you’re looking for. Always read the policy details carefully and compare quotes before making a decision.
