VPI Pet Insurance

I recently received an email from a «Customer Experience Analyst» requesting that I review VPI/​Nationwide (not in violation of the TOS, but still), which really makes me want to give them one star, but I am resisting the temptation as they are consistently less expensive per month than the other guys, I will give them that. I consistently get something back whenever I make a claim, though I do feel like it’s been less lately than in 2009. The customer service has always been fine.
The major issue we had with them was when we tried to upgrade the coverage for our dog Rosie in 2013. This took place around policy renewal time. We were denied the upgrade and then they just never renewed our policy. When we went to sign up again they denied all coverage — Rosie had had a lot of infection issues, so she was probably a more expensive dog than most, but by this time they were all under control and she hadn’t had one for close to two years. We had been very satisfied with our service up until that point — it was a dick move.
She was insured by another pet insurer for a few years that was exceptionally expensive and didn’t cover really anything. When we got Jinx we put her on VPI — due to expense, primarily — and got Rosie catastrophic coverage. I am a reluctant customer, if only because they are the lesser of the pet insurance evils.

Helpful when addressing an questions and quick turnaround with the reimbursement. I love the customer service!
However, there was some frustration with my policy last year when my dog was very sick. I was told that my dog would not be covered for this same sickness within 9 months of diagnosis. It was a bit terrifying and irritating knowing that my dog wouldn’t be covered if the sickness were to come back again. What is the point of insurance if it can only be applied once? Luckily he has been fine ever since, but something to consider when reviewing different insurance companies.

I’m currently a Risk Manager for a large real estate investment trust and was formerly an insurance broker for 20 years prior to my current role. I know how difficult insurance companies can be to deal with for accounts large and small and I have to say I’ve been extremely impressed with the coverage and service provided by Nationwide (formerly VPI).
I’ve used them for my 1 year old boxer and have had no issues with recovery under the policy. Their portal is user friendly and I’ve been impressed with their customer services. I find them to be communicative from the day a claim is submitted through receiving reimbursement and details of that calculation. Even after having several claims in year 1, my premium did not change upon renewal.
Overall, I would recommend Nationwide to help you and your family protect your pet and include a full coverage plan for any unforeseen medical costs. Hopefully, you never need them, but its nice to know they are there.