Both Pets Best and Nationwide Pet Insurance offer comprehensive coverage with varying options to suit different needs. Pets Best stands out for its lower age limit, no upper age limit, shorter accident waiting periods in some states, and a wider range of alternative therapy coverage in its Elite plan. Nationwide distinguishes itself with potential coverage for curable pre-existing conditions, multi-pet discounts, and 24/7 vet coverage through its VetHelpline app. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs and priorities of the pet owner.
| Attribute | Pets Best | Nationwide Pet Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum annual payout limit | $5,000, $10,000, or unlimited | Varies depending on the plan. Some plans have a maximum annual limit of $5,000 for accidents and $10,000 for illnesses. Other plans like the Modular Pet Insurance Plan have a $5,000 annual maximum for each category. Some plans offer unlimited annual benefits. |
| Deductible options | $50, $100, $200, $250, $500, or $1,000 annual deductibles | Options include $100, $250, $500, or $1,000, but may vary depending on the policy. |
| Reimbursement percentage options | 70%, 80%, or 90% | Typically offers 50%, 70%, or 80%. |
| Coverage for hereditary and congenital conditions | Covered if symptoms are not present before the policy's effective date or during waiting periods | Covered under some plans, like the Modular Pet Insurance Plan and Whole Pet Plan, as long as the condition is not pre-existing and hasn't occurred during the waiting period. The Major Medical Plan has limited coverage for hereditary conditions. |
| Coverage for chronic conditions | Covered as part of the base policy, provided they are not pre-existing and have not occurred during the waiting period, and as long as the maximum payout limit hasn't been reached | The Major Medical Plan offers ongoing coverage for chronic diseases up to the benefit allowance for the diagnosis/treatment, which resets every policy year. |
| Waiting periods for accidents and illnesses | Accidents: Generally 3 days (no waiting period in DE, LA, ME, MS, NE, NH, WA); Illnesses: 14 days; Cruciate Ligament Issues: 6 months (30 days in DE, LA, ME, MS, NE, NH, and WA); Routine Care: No waiting period | Generally, there is a 14-day waiting period for accidents and illnesses. |
| Coverage for dental illness | Covers dental diseases, including periodontal disease, but not routine teeth cleanings unless a wellness add-on is purchased | Some plans, like the Modular pet insurance policy, cover dental illnesses such as gingivitis. Wellness plans may include coverage for routine dental cleanings. |
| Coverage for behavioral therapy | Most accident and illness plans cover behavioral consultations with a licensed veterinarian and prescription medications | Some plans may cover behavioral issues, particularly if the treatment is prescribed by a veterinarian for a specific condition. |
| Coverage for alternative therapies | Elite plan covers acupuncture, chiropractic care, cold laser therapy, physical therapy, and hydrotherapy. Essential and Plus plans do not include alternative therapies | Some policies may cover alternative treatments like acupuncture or chiropractic care if prescribed by a veterinarian to treat a covered condition. |
| Age restrictions for enrollment | Pets can be enrolled as early as 7 weeks old, with no upper age limit | Typically accepts pets from eight weeks to eight years old for new enrollments, though this can vary across plans. Existing policyholders may continue coverage beyond this age. |
| Pre-existing condition exclusions | Does not cover pre-existing conditions | Like most pet insurers, Nationwide doesn't cover pre-existing conditions. However, some 'curable' pre-existing conditions may be covered if the pet has been symptom-free for six months, with veterinary records as proof. |
| Customer service availability and responsiveness | Customer Care is available Monday through Friday from 6 am to 7 pm. A 24/7 Pet Helpline is also available, staffed by veterinary experts | Offers 24/7 vet coverage through the VetHelpline app. |
| Claim Submission and Reimbursement | Claims can be submitted online, via the mobile app, email, mail, or fax. Reimbursement can be received via direct deposit or check, with direct deposit taking as little as two business days after processing the claim. The average claim reimbursement time is approximately 5 days. Claims must be submitted within 180 days of the date of service | Not available |
| Prescription Medications | Prescription medications are generally covered. However, coverage may depend on whether the medication is included in their formulary of covered medications | Yes, prescription medications are generally covered. |
| Deductible Function | Pets Best uses an annual deductible, which must be met once per policy term. There is no deductible for routine care coverage with BestWellness and EssentialWellness plans | Nationwide offers annual deductibles. |
| Premium Increases | Premiums may increase due to the pet's age, species/breed, and the policyholder's home address | Premiums may increase based on factors like the pet's age, breed, location, and claim history. Rising veterinary costs and inflation can also lead to premium increases. |
| Multi-pet discount | Not available | Electing coverage for four or more pets will increase your discount to 10%. |