Pet insurance: Nationwide Pet Insurance vs. Fetch by The Dodo
Quick Verdict
Both offer comprehensive accident and illness coverage, but differ in exotic pet coverage, wellness options, and customer service reputation.
- Nationwide offers exotic pet coverage, while Fetch is limited to dogs and cats.
- Fetch may offer faster claim processing with direct deposit.
- Nationwide has a 24/7 vet helpline.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Nationwide Pet Insurance | Fetch by The Dodo |
|---|---|---|
| Accident and Illness Coverage | Covers accidents, illnesses, and hereditary/congenital conditions. | Covers accidents, injuries, and illnesses including diagnostics, lab work, treatments, hospitalizations, and surgeries. |
| Wellness Plan Options | Optional wellness plans available to cover routine expenses. | Wellness option can be added for routine and preventative coverage. |
| Pre-existing Condition Coverage | Generally not covered, but may be reviewed if cured and treatment-free for at least six months. | Not covered unless symptom-free for 12 months. |
| Waiting Periods for Coverage | 14 days for accident and illness. Longer for some orthopedic conditions. | 15 days for accident and illness. 6 months for orthopedic conditions (may be waived). |
| Annual Coverage Limits | Up to $5,000 for accidents and $10,000 for illnesses on some plans; $7,500 on 'My Pet Protection' plan. | $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000; some sources claim unlimited option. |
| Deductible Options | Flexible, sometimes as low as $100. | $300, $500, and $700. Other sources mention $250 to $1,000. |
| Reimbursement Percentage Options | 50% to 80%. | 70%, 80%, and 90%. |
| Exotic Pet Coverage | Yes, offers coverage for exotic pets. | No, only available for dogs and cats. |
Overall Comparison
Coverage: Similar; Exotic Pets: Nationwide; Wellness: Both; Customer Service: Mixed
Pros and Cons
Nationwide Pet Insurance
Pros:
- Comprehensive accident and illness coverage
- Optional wellness plans available
- Coverage for hereditary and congenital conditions
- Offers coverage for exotic pets
- 24/7 vet helpline
- Multi-pet discount available
- Covers dental illnesses and injuries
- Covers alternative therapies like acupuncture and chiropractic care
Cons:
- Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered
- Waiting periods for coverage apply
- Claims can take longer if medical records are needed or if the claim is complex
Fetch by The Dodo
Pros:
- Comprehensive accident and illness coverage
- Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
- Covers chronic conditions
- Covers specialist visits
- Covers alternative therapies (if prescribed by a licensed veterinarian)
- Comprehensive dental coverage (with conditions)
- Fast reimbursement with direct deposit
Cons:
- No coverage for pre-existing conditions (with exceptions)
- Waiting periods for coverage
- Limited to dogs and cats
- Customer service quality may vary
User Experiences and Feedback
Nationwide Pet Insurance
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
Fetch by The Dodo
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- One Reddit user described Fetch's customer service as unhelpful and condescending.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- One Reddit user described Fetch's customer service as unhelpful and condescending.