Pre-existing conditions
We’re here for your pet’s health journey. It's important to note that coverage under your pet insurance policy does not start immediately upon enrollment. There is a waiting period before your pet's coverage becomes effective. Additionally, any conditions that already exist prior to enrollment will be considered to be pre-existing and not eligible for coverage. Exclusion of pre-existing conditions is crucial to consider when signing up for a new pet insurance plan to ensure that you understand your coverage.
Expect the unexpected
Don’t wait for an accident to happen. Secure coverage today and protect your pet with a plan that prioritizes their health and your peace of mind.
Coverage for common accidents
Pet injuries and accidents can strike at any time. Our accident pet insurance provides coverage to give your pet access to the care they need while managing the significant medical expenses. Our accident pet coverage may include:
- Broken Bones
- Hit By a Car
- Poisoning
- Heatstroke
- Foreign Body Ingestion
- Lacerations
- Animal Attacks
- Snakebites
Please note - any condition (including accidents) that began or was contracted, manifested, or incurred before the effective date of this policy or during any waiting period, whether or not the condition was discovered, diagnosed, or treated is considered to be pre-existing and will not be covered.
Coverage for accidents and injuries
Some accidents and injuries require more in-depth treatment that includes additional procedures. Nationwide's accident and injury pet insurance covers procedures to ensure your pet receives the care they need. Our accident and injury insurance coverage may include:
- X-rays
- MRIs
- Stitches and Wound Dressing
- Surgeries
- IV Fluids
- Anesthesia
Cost of treatment without insurance
Veterinary care for accidents can be expensive and these unexpected bills can hit hard if you're not properly covered. Accident-related vet costs can range anywhere from $565 for trauma to over $1,921 for foreign body ingestion.** Hospitalizations, further treatments, or additional medication relating to the pet emergencies will only add to those costs. A typical emergency vet bill costs $2,000 to $5,000 and will likely occur at least once during a pet’s lifetime.1 By choosing accident pet insurance from Nationwide, you are protecting your pet's future and your financial peace of mind.
The Nationwide Difference
Nationwide's pet injury insurance helps cushion the financial shock of unexpected vet bills, ensuring your pet can receive the care they need without delay. Plus, with our VetHelpline®, and PetRxExpress® services, you can rest easy knowing you have 24/7 access to online vet support, the freedom to visit any licensed vet you want, and preferred pricing on prescription medication. Let Nationwide take the worry out of treating your pet's accidents and injuries for as little as $13/mo*.
1MoneyUnder30.com, True Cost of Pet Ownership
*Rate based on a 1 year old mixed (Medium 21-50lbs) dog in 60615 for the Modular plan with Accident only coverage, $5,000 annual limit with 80% coinsurance and $250 annual deductible.
**Based on Nationwide 2024 claims data
What's not covered
Our accident and injury plan is extensive but not all-inclusive. Understanding your pet insurance coverage limitations can help prepare you for potential out-of-pocket expenses and set appropriate expectations for what your insurance plan covers.
Here are the typical exclusions from Nationwide accident and injury pet insurance coverage:
- Illnesses
- Chronic conditions
- Pre-existing conditions
- Routine care
- Vaccinations
- Flea and tick prevention
Please note - any condition (including accidents) that began or was contracted, manifested, or incurred before the effective date of this policy or during any waiting period, whether or not the condition was discovered, diagnosed, or treated is considered to be pre-existing and will not be covered.
As fellow pet owners, we know how frustrating it can be to discover that not everything is covered. We strive to limit exclusions as much as possible while maintaining affordability in our plans.
See a full list of exclusions or refer to your policy for further information.
How it works
Visit any vet
As soon as an accident happens, take your pet to any licensed veterinarian, emergency clinic, specialist, or hospital in the United States or abroad.
Submit your claim
After you’ve paid for your pet’s treatment, simply file your claim by logging into Nationwide’s online portal and uploading the veterinarian’s paid invoice along with any treatment notes.
Receive reimbursement
Nationwide processes accident claims promptly, ensuring speedy reimbursements for eligible costs covered by your policy.
Cover your pet for more than just accidents
An accident-only insurance plan is a great way to protect your pet, especially if you are on a budget. But life throws more than just accidents your way. Bundling accident with optional illness and optional wellness coverage gives you peace of mind knowing you're fully equipped to support your pet's health at every turn. It’s a comprehensive approach that not only protects against unexpected accidents but also covers illnesses and routine wellness checks, all while saving you money.
Frequently asked questions
Most plans have a 14-day waiting period after your application is approved and payment is received. Check your policy or consult with a Nationwide representative for more detailed information.
Coverage limits depend on your chosen plan. Most plans have an annual limit. We recommend reviewing your policy details for specific limit information.
Yes, like most pet insurance plans, a deductible must be met before reimbursements for pet insurance costs are made. The annual deductible for Nationwide's accident coverage is usually $250 but is subject to your specific plan.
Yes, Nationwide offers the flexibility to upgrade your policy to include optional wellness or illness coverage. You can make these changes during your annual renewal period.
Some coverage or product upgrades may be subject to underwriting review.
Like all pet insurance companies, we do not cover pre-existing conditions. Any condition (including accidents) that began or was contracted, manifested, or incurred before the effective date of this policy or during any waiting period, whether or not the condition was discovered, diagnosed, or treated is considered to be pre-existing and will not be covered.
Your Nationwide accident insurance covers the cost of multiple treatments for injuries resulting from the same accident, as long as the condition is eligible, falls within your policy limits and occurs during the coverage period.
No, our accident-only pet insurance coverage does not cover emergency transportation costs.