Milo is devoted to his family and loves playing in the snow. However, during a Christmas Day trip to the mountains, a sudden noise startled Milo as he was getting into the family’s car. He bolted up a cross-country ski trail and disappeared.

His family chased after him, but Milo was gone, lost in the wilderness for 72 days until his microchip was pinged at a shelter. He was incredibly thin but otherwise unscathed. After spending four days in the vet hospital receiving expert care, he was able to return home to his family, who call it a miracle.

“The joy of being reunited with a beloved pet after weeks of uncertainty is hard to put into words. Milo's journey reflects the determination of his family, his own incredible resilience, and the importance of getting pets the care they need when the unexpected happens. Stories like his are exactly what the Hambone Awards were created to celebrate,” said Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide.

Nationwide hosted a public vote from August 3-14, 2026 to determine the most unusual pet insurance claim story and two runners-up from a group of nine finalists. More than 11,000 votes were cast. Milo received the Hambone Award trophy and a Petco gift card, and the runners up will also receive Petco gift cards. The runners-up were:

• Henry, a Labrador retriever from Colorado who’s obsessed with fetch, chased a ball into his yard, stepped on a rake and punctured his paw. His parent contacted Nationwide’s VetHelpline for guidance, and now, Henry is healed and back to chasing tennis balls.
• Hobbes, a domestic shorthair cat from Arizona, slipped past his owner and dashed under a garage just as it was closing. He made it past the safety sensors but not the garage door itself. When his owner found him trapped, Hobbes was rushed for treatment and was soon back in action.

The Hambone Award was named after a Nationwide-insured dog who got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire holiday ham. Later, the dog was found with a mild case of hypothermia and the hambone, all that remained of his feast. You can click here to read the stories of the complete list of 2026 Hambone Award nominees.

All nominated pets have recovered and received reimbursements for eligible veterinary expenses from Nationwide^® pet insurance.

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.com.

One survived weeks alone in the wilderness. Others couldn't resist bingeing on cake, medications and even a drum. Though their stories were vastly different, all nine furry finalists for Nationwide^® pet insurance’s Hambone Award^® share one thing in common: a full recovery.

Voting for the 18^th annual Hambone Award, recognizing the year’s most unusual pet insurance claim is underway now through Aug. 14, 2026, at petinsurance.com/hamboneaward. The winner will be announced Aug. 19, 2026.  

The Hambone Award was originally named after a Nationwide-insured dog who got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire holiday ham while waiting to be discovered. The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia. He made a full recovery and inspired this award, which highlights the unusual situations pets can get into and how pet insurance can help.

Meet the 2026 Hambone Award finalists

• Capone, a Bernedoodle from California, found a baseball in the garage and decided to make it a chew toy. After shredding the ball and swallowing the cover, his pet parents sought guidance from Nationwide’s VetHelpline^® before Capone received treatment and made a full recovery.
• Diesel and Matilda, beagles from Arizona, followed their noses straight to trouble when they snuck into the pantry and devoured nearly an entire two-tier red velvet cake. Their sweet tooth quickly led to concern, but both dogs ultimately made full recoveries.
• Hampden, a goldendoodle from Texas, made his frustration over a delayed dinner known by tearing apart a vintage Ugandan drum and eating the drum skin. Veterinarians later removed half a drum from his stomach, and Hampden made a full recovery.
• Henry, a fetch-obsessed Labrador retriever from Colorado, chased a ball into a yard cleanup area and impaled his paw on a rake prong. After his pet parent contacted Nationwide’s VetHelpline for guidance, Henry received care and is back to chasing tennis balls.
• Hobbes, a domestic shorthair cat from Arizona, slipped past his owner and dashed into the garage just as the door was closing. He made it past the safety sensors but not the garage door itself. When his owner found him trapped, Hobbes was rushed for treatment and was soon back in action.
• Lilliya and Noelle, borzois from Wisconsin, teamed up for a prescription-powered misadventure after opening a drawer and helping themselves to an entire bottle of their beef liver-flavored pet prescription. After consuming all 14 tablets, the duo required immediate treatment but ultimately made full recoveries.
• Lulu, a mixed-breed dog from Illinois, was keeping watch for squirrels from her favorite chaise lounge when she slipped and landed on a metal candle holder, which pierced into her leg. After receiving stitches and pain medication, Lulu returned to squirrel duty.
• Milo Bear, a golden retriever from Nevada, disappeared into the snowy wilderness near Lake Tahoe after being startled during a Christmas Day outing. Following an extraordinary search and 72 days on his own, Milo's microchip was scanned at a shelter and he was reunited with his family after receiving care.
• Rolly, a standard poodle from Florida, turned his passion for chasing iguanas into a much bigger problem when he decided to eat a dead one. The unusual meal left him seriously ill, but Rolly made a full recovery.

All nominated pets have made full recoveries and received reimbursements for eligible veterinary expenses from Nationwide pet insurance. For full stories, photos of the nominees, and to cast your vote daily between August 3-14, 2026, visit petinsurance.com/hamboneaward.

“Though these stories begin with unexpected pet mishaps, the Hambone Award celebrates what happens next: the extraordinary bond between people and pets, and the compassionate care that helps turn close calls into recoveries” said  Dr. Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. “We’re proud that Nationwide could provide financial peace of mind during a stressful time, helping families focus on what matters most: their pets’ recovery.”

The nominee with the most votes will receive the coveted Hambone Award trophy and a Petco gift card, while two runners-up will also receive Petco gift cards.

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.com.

Taking home the title of Wackiest Pet Name of 2026 are*: 

• Top Dog: Internet Browser, a Plott hound from San Antonio, Texas
• Top Cat: Cheddar Big Booty Cheeseburger, a longhair feline with maximum flavor from Benton, Arkansas
• Top Exotic Pet: Space Cowboy, a bearded dragon living life on his own terms from Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina 

Each year, Nationwide pet insurance team recognizes the most bold and unforgettable names among its roster of newly enrolled pets. The top 10 wackiest dogs, cats, and exotic pet names were put to a public vote that ran April 13-17 with a record 200,000+ votes counted. 

The pet’s families will celebrate their wins with a professional photo shoot with their pet and a gift card to create a custom pet portrait.  

Below are links to the names and profiles of the other nominees.

Nationwide’s Wacky Pet Names campaign highlights the real families behind every funny name and why they choose Nationwide to protect their pets.   

It’s a wacky world out there. Be ready for the unexpected with protection from Nationwide pet insurance. To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com. 

 *These are actual pet names chosen by actual owners, reflecting their pets' unique personalities and the owner's interests and passions. No connection or relationship to the inspiration is implied.  

This year’s finalists reflect how pet naming has evolved into a creative outlet inspired by humor, pop culture, wordplay and even academic flair. Names range from Statistically Significant, a domestic shorthair cat whose name suggests serious analytical skills, to Quillie Nelson, a hedgehog clearly channeling a music legend’s energy. This year’s list showcases imagination across dogs, cats and a range of exotic pets including a pigeon, bearded dragon and rabbit.  

This year’s naming trends fall into a few standout categories:  

• Pop culture wordplay: Obi-Wan Cornobi (corn snake), Howl Capone (dachshund), Brave Little Toaster (shorthair cat)
• Food-inspired fun: Cheddar Big Booty Cheeseburger (longhair cat), Dinonugget (maltipoo), Orange Julius Ceasar Salad (shorthair cat)
• Chaos energy: General Chaos (mixed breed dog), Mochi The Captain Of Chaos (conure parrot), Bad Kitty 5000 (shorthair cat)
• Clever and brainy names: Statistically Significant (shorthair cat), Internet Browser (plott hound), Lucipurr Meowzebub The Lord Of Cats (shorthair cat)
• Formally ridiculous titles: Sergeant Major (SGM) Booplesnoot (rabbit), Aries Amethyst World Eater (boxer), Goofus McDoof Business Horse (shorthair cat) 

Support your favorite dog, cat, and exotic pet name by voting daily for each category.   

Here are the 2026 Wacky Pet Names finalists:  
(Click on their name to go to the pet's profile page to vote, if voting button doesn't appear, please clear your browser history and refresh the page)

While the contest celebrates humor and imagination, Nationwide reminds pet parents that protecting their pets’ health is a serious consideration. Pet insurance offers reimbursement on eligible veterinary expenses for accidents, illness and more so pet families can focus on care and worry less about cost. 

For more information about protecting pets of all shapes, sizes and names, visit petinsurance.com. 

The pets with the most votes in each category will each receive a professional photo shoot with their pet and a gift card to create a custom pet portrait.   

See Official Rules—Wacky Pet Names  

*These are actual pet names chosen by actual owners, reflecting their pets' unique personalities and the owner's interests and passions. No connection or relationship to the inspiration is implied. 

“Each year these findings remind us just how much our pets’ health is shaped by ongoing, chronic conditions,” said Dr. Emily Tincher, chief veterinary officer at Nationwide. “While not every illness can be prevented, early recognition and proactive management can improve outcomes. Our goal is to equip pet families, and the veterinary teams who partner with them, with insights that help support better long-term care.” 

Canine Trends: Allergies top the list again and chronic issues dominate the top 10 

• Skin allergies rank #1 again, for the 15^th year running.
• No movement in the top 9 conditions, signaling persistent, widespread health patterns among U.S. canines
• Seizures enter the top 10 for the first time but are very closely followed by kidney disease and cranial cruciate ligament tears.
• Chronic conditions make up 6 of the top 10 and may require long-lasting care and follow families for years, underscoring the importance of ongoing care and budgeting. 

Feline trends: Digestive issues lead the pack again with chronic conditions climbing

• For the third consecutive year, digestive issues stay firmly in the top spot.
• The top six conditions remain unchanged from last year, showing consistent health patterns across the feline population.
• A striking 7 out of 10 conditions for cats are chronic, meaning long-term costs can far exceed a single visit.
• The bottom half of the list sees some reshuffling among inflammatory bowel disease (#7 in 2024), diabetes (#8 in 2024), and respiratory infection (#9 in 2024).

Resources for Veterinary Teams
While many of these conditions cannot be prevented, early detection, client education, and species or breed-specific risk awareness improve outcomes. Nationwide Pet HealthZone^® is a free, publicly accessible resource with clinical insights and risk profiles for more than 100 dog breeds and 11 cat breeds , designed to support both pet families and the veterinary team guiding the care.

With Nationwide pet health insurance, many veterinary expenses associated with the diagnosis and treatment of these common conditions are eligible for reimbursement based on the pet family’s chosen coverage. It’s important to obtain coverage before your pet begins experiencing any symptoms because pre-existing conditions are excluded. To explore options visit petinsurance.com.  

¹These numbers were calculated by analyzing the 80^th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported January 1 - December 31, 2025 within the first 30 days after diagnosis for a given condition. 
²These numbers were calculated by analyzing the 80^th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported January 1 - December 31, 2025 within the first year after diagnosis for a given condition. 

About Nationwide pet insurance
With more than 1 million actively insured pets, Nationwide is the first and one of the largest providers of pet insurance in the United States. Nationwide pet insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH; National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH. Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Insurance terms, definitions and explanations are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in individual insurance contracts, policies or declaration pages, which are controlling. Pet owners can find Nationwide pet insurance on Instagram. For more information about Nationwide pet insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit petinsurance.com.

Chocolate Tops the Naughty List
December sees a dramatic surge in chocolate-related emergencies, with an 182% spike in these claims in the final two weeks of the year. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause a racing heart rate, hyperactivity, vomiting, seizures, and even death in pets. The cost for treatment is $814ⁱ.

Décor and Gifts Pose Hidden Dangers
Foreign body ingestion also sees a sharp increase during the holidays as pets encounter decorations, swallow toy parts, or visit new environments. These items can cause intestinal blockages requiring surgery, with the cost for treatment being $3,584ⁱ.

Rich Foods Trigger Painful Illness
Pancreatitis and gastroenteritis (tummy upset) are common throughout the season, often caused by fatty table scraps or sudden diet changes. These conditions lead to painful inflammation and digestive upset, with treatment costs $1,610 for pancreatitis and $786 for gastroenteritisⁱ.

• Foods to avoid giving pets: onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, spices, bones, corn cobs, xylitol (found in sugar-free items).
• Fun foods to offer pets—in limited amounts: apple, carrots, green beans, white-meat cooked turkey, pumpkin (puree, not pie filling).

“Emergency care can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, which is why prevention during the holiday season is so critical,” said Dr. Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. “To help with pet-proofing for the holidays, consider what is at your pet’s eye level. Block off areas and human food that might prove too tempting, especially when you leave the house or have guests.”

Quick Tips for a Pet-Safe Holiday

• Keep chocolate, candy, and baked goods out of reach.
• Secure décor and wrapping materials, especially ribbons and strings that attract cats.
• Avoid feeding pets table scraps or fatty leftovers.
• Stick to normal feeding routines and monitor stress levels.

Smart Tech for Peace of Mind
If you’re traveling or away for the day, smart-home devices can be lifesaving for pets. More than eight in ten (85%) independent insurance agents recommend smart-home technology to reduce riskⁱⁱ, the top items they recommend are smart sensors for smoke and carbon monoxide. These devices provide you with real-time alerts, that allow you to act more quickly in an emergency. Some homeowners insurance providers (like Nationwide) offer various smart home devices at no cost to home policyholders.

More Resources to Protect Your Pet
Nationwide’s digital platform, the Pet HealthZone®, is a free tool pet parents can use to determine their pet’s unique risk levels and learn about symptoms to watch for, what to expect at the vet, and potential costs associated with treatment of conditions like toxicity and foreign body ingestion.  

With Nationwide pet insurance, eligible veterinary expenses may be reimbursed based on the member’s chosen coverage. To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.comⁱⁱⁱ. 

ⁱ Cost data is 80^th percentile in the first 30 days of diagnosis for Nationwide insured pets November 2023 to November 2025.
ⁱⁱ https://news.nationwide.com/download/388cf87e-65b2-4935-ad1e-e872883aa63a/2025nationwidehomeownersreport.pdf
ⁱⁱⁱ Some exclusions may apply. Certain coverages may be excluded due to pre-existing conditions. See policy documents for a complete list of exclusions and any annual limits that may apply. Plans may not be available in all states. Policy eligibility may vary.  
Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH; National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH. Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review and approval. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Insurance terms, definitions and explanations are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in individual insurance contracts, policies or declaration pages, which are controlling. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. ©2025 Nationwide.  

To celebrate the tremendous contribution these furry friends make every day, leaders and staff from Nationwide and Nationwide Children’s recently gathered to host a special event that allowed these wonderful dogs to have some fun. The event commemorated a special multi-year contribution from Nationwide to the Butterfly Paws Pet Health Fund, which will cover the veterinary needs for the Butterfly Paws working dogs over the next five years, beginning in 2026.

“The Butterfly Paws dogs give so much to improve the mental health and well-being of kids, families and staff at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.” said Dr. Emily Tincher, chief veterinary officer for Nationwide Pet Insurance. “Supporting health care and research at Nationwide Children’s has always been a priority for Nationwide, and now this commitment extends to the dogs who bring comfort and joy to patients and families. The human-animal bond thrives when pets are healthy, which is why we’re making this financial commitment that ensures these incredible dogs receive the veterinary care they need to continue their vital work for the kids and staff at the hospital.”

Hank, Maverick, Marlee, Savi and Gibbs were given some time off to attend the event, where the dogs were able to enjoy new toys, belly rubs and play time with hospital staff, Nationwide employees and patient champions—letting these dogs take a break and just be dogs.

“Butterfly Paws is made entirely possible through philanthropy,” said Melissa McMillen, director of Butterfly Paws at Nationwide Children’s. “Generous support like this from Nationwide allows us to continue providing the best care to the beloved canines who do so much every day to support our patients, families and staff.”

1. It Costs You Nothing—But Delivers High Impact  

Pet insurance is a zero-cost benefit for employers to offer because the cost is covered by the employees who opt into this benefit, yet it can make a meaningful difference in employees’ lives. It’s a way for the employer to show they care, especially for employees who might not have children but consider their pets family.  

2. It’s a Secret Weapon for Retaining Gen Z and Millennials  

Younger employees are deeply connected to their pets, often treating them much like human children. In fact, 72% of Gen Z and Millennials with pet insurance report being fully engaged at workⁱ. Offering this benefit signals that their employer understands and supports what matters most to them.  

3. Employees Can Enroll Anytime  

Unlike most voluntary benefits tied to open enrollment season, pet insurance allows year-round enrollment. This flexibility means employees can opt in when they adopt a pet or when their financial situation changes, making it more accessible and relevant.  

4. Pet Ownership Supports Employee Wellness  

Pets are proven to reduce loneliness, improve recovery from illness and boost overall mental health. Supporting pet ownership by offering insurance can help employees to bring their best selves to work both physically and emotionally, which can translate to better performance.  

5. It Protects Financial Well-being  

Unexpected vet bills can be financially devastating. Pet insurance helps employees avoid dipping into savings or their 401(k), especially in today’s tough economy where costs, including pet healthcare, are rising. With many workers living paycheck to paycheck and having less than $1,000 saved for emergencies, this benefit can be a financial lifeline that helps them keep their savings goals on track. 

Choosing the right provider  

David Hurley, Director of Pet Voluntary Benefits for Nationwide, offers this guidance to benefit administrators and brokers trying to select the right pet insurance partner for their employees:   
“Pet insurance needs are not one-size-fits-all. Some employees value comprehensive coverage, while others may be more interested in avoiding catastrophic expenses. Others are more focused on how the cost will impact their paycheck. Look for plans that allow employees to tailor coverage to their budget. For example, Nationwide’s My Pet Protection Choice lets employees adjust deductibles, coverage limits, and even choose accident-only plans. This flexibility makes the benefit accessible across generations and income levels.”  

Bottom line: Pet insurance is more than a perk, it’s a powerful way to support wellness, financial stability and employee engagement. For many, furry family members are among the most important relationships in their lives.  

Learn more: Nationwide’s pet insurance team has created a white paper with insights into how and why pet insurance can engage employees by meaningfully enhancing employee benefit menus: Creating in-roads with millennials and Gen-Z with pet insurance

Ziya, a Belgian Malinois from northern California, who found himself in the middle of a real-life bullfight (minus the red cape), has captured the 17^th annual Hambone Award® which recognizes the most unusual pet insurance claim of the year. Nationwide® presents the award annually to bring awareness to the unexpected and downright outrageous events that can happen to our pets—demonstrating how pet insurance plays an important role in protecting and caring for our companions.  

Ziya was adopted by a longtime dog lover named Tim. This unique pup was training to be a working dog, but his personality was better suited for companionship. Ziya quickly settled into his new role as protector of Tim’s 80-acre property, showing off his tracking skills and ever watchful nature.  

This story begins on a quiet morning, when a routine stroll with his pet parents took a wild turn. Out of the misty fog came an unexpected guest: a loose, angry bull. Without hesitation Ziya leapt into action placing himself between the bull and his owners. While his owners escaped to safety, the bull struck Ziya in the jaw, dislodging a tooth and sending him to the emergency vet. Thanks to expert veterinary care, Ziya made a full recovery and now hopes that future walks will not involve horned adversaries. “Tim’s bond with Ziya enabled them to take turns caring for each other when a bull unexpectedly joined their morning walk,” said Dr. Emily M. Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. “Thanks to the care provided by Ziya’s veterinary team and the protection provided by Nationwide pet insurance, this story of unexpected trauma has a happy ending!”  

Nationwide hosted a public vote August 5-12, 2025 to determine the most unusual pet insurance claim story and two runners-up from a field of 10 finalists. Ziya and Tim received the coveted Hambone Award trophy and a Petco gift card, the runners up will also receive Petco gift cards.  

The runners-up were:  

• Duke, a lab-mix from Ohio, who swallowed an entire spatula head after licking off some peanut butter while he was staying at his dog sitter’s house. 

• Foxtrot, a Great Dane in Texas, stole a full turkey leg straight from the tongs in her owner’s hand the day after Thanksgiving—and swallowed it whole.  

The Hambone Award was originally named after a Nationwide-insured dog who got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire holiday ham while waiting to be discovered. The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia. Check out the stories of all ten 2025 nominees.  

All nominated pets have recovered and received reimbursements for eligible veterinary expenses from Nationwide® pet insurance.  

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.com.  

The Hambone Award was originally named after a Nationwide-insured dog who got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire holiday ham while waiting to be discovered. The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia. 

This year’s class of nominees braved everything from groundhog run-ins and bug buffets to bull brawls—while others snacked on flower bouquets, tech gadgets, and even a taxidermy reptile. Voting for this year’s most unusual pet insurance claim is underway now through Aug. 12, 2025, at petinsurance.com/hamboneaward. Results will be shared on August 19, 2024.  

Meet the 2025 Hambone Award finalists

• Ziya, a Belgian Malinois from California, found himself in the middle of a real-life bull  fight (minus the red cape) on a foggy Bay Area morning. He bravely leapt in to protect his human companions from a loose angry bull, leading to a kick to the jaw, dislodging a tooth. Thanks to expert veterinary care, Ziya made a full recovery—and now hopes that walks will avoid unexpected cattle guests.
• Wash, a mixed-breed dog from Tennessee, couldn’t resist the cicadas that emerged in his yard one summer. His crunchy bug binge led to a smelly situation and a sudden loss of appetite. A veterinary visit and switch to a more bland diet later, Wash made a full recovery—and is working on sticking to more conventional snacks.
• Salem, a shorthair cat from New York, was suspected of swallowing an AirPod that mysteriously vanished. After musical tests, a wild goose chase with Find My iPhone, and two veterinary visits, the mystery remains unsolved. No AirPod was ever found, but Salem walked away healthy and ready to rock.
• Ozi, a Yorkie from California, took channel surfing to a new extreme by chewing the TV remote control to bits while his humans were away. When one battery turned up mangled and the other went missing, a panicked trip to the emergency vet followed. Thankfully, both batteries were later found (under the couch!), and Ozi made a full recovery—though he’s now banned from binge-watching unsupervised.
• Maddie, a Bulldog in Virginia, mysteriously fell ill—until she began spitting up strange objects that looked like bones. The culprit? A preserved alligator that had vanished from the house. Nationwide’s VetHelpline® warned of potential toxic chemicals in taxidermy, prompting an urgent veterinary visit. Maddie made a full recovery and the family now keeps exotic décor out of paws’ reach.
• Hazel, a Dane-St. Bernard mix-breed from New Jersey, had been eyeing a mysterious hole in the yard for days. When she finally pounced, it turned out to be a groundhog’s front door. A trail of tiny blood spots later revealed a bite on her paw. Fortunately, Hazel bounced back quickly.
• Foxtrot, a Great Dane in Texas, stole a full turkey leg straight from the tongs in her owner’s hands the day after Thanksgiving—and swallowed it whole. Though she seemed fine, a call to Nationwide’s VetHelpline® confirmed the bone needed to be removed. Thanks to swift action, Foxtrot made a full recovery and now keeps her kitchen heists to a minimum.
• Duke, a lab-mix from Ohio, was staying with his favorite dog sitter when he swallowed an entire spatula head after licking off some peanut butter. This didn’t stop him from continuing to play and having a good time. Nationwide’s VetHelpline® advised his pet parents to get him to a veterinary practice for x-rays, which revealed the utensil in his stomach, leading to an endoscopy. Soon he was back to his usual self—now sticking to peanut butter without the hardware.
• Boone, a Golden Retriever in New Jersey, snatched a hot piece of grilled chicken and immediately began choking on the bone—while also suffering burns to his mouth. Thanks to his pet parent’s quick reflexes and a visit to the veterinarian, Boone made a full recovery from his BBQ blunder.
• Bella, a Havanese pup from Illinois, turned a simple bouquet into a floral fiasco. After sampling the colorful arrangement, she ended up covered in green, blue, and yellow pollen— with a very upset stomach. A veterinary visit (and a photo of the flowers) helped ensure her recovery.

All nominated pets have made full recoveries and received reimbursements for eligible veterinary expenses from Nationwide^® pet insurance. For full stories, photos of the nominees, and to cast your vote between August 5-12, 2025, visit petinsurance.com/hamboneaward

"Pets always find new ways to surprise us! The Hambone Award shines a light on those unpredictable moments and the amazing teams who help pets recover,” said Dr. Emily M. Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. “We’re proud to support the pet families and veterinary teams who turn these unexpected adventures into stories of recovery and relief.”

The grand prize winner will receive the coveted Hambone Award trophy and a Petco gift card. Two runners-up will also receive Petco gift cards.

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.com.

Skin allergies—a common concern for many pet owners—can manifest in various forms in dogs and cats, often causing discomfort and, if left untreated, potentially serious health issues.  

As loving pet parents, we do everything we can to keep our four-legged family members happy and healthy. Learning to recognize and manage skin allergies and prevent flare ups is a key part of that care.  

Nationwide’s Insured Skin Allergy Stats:    

• #1 Most Common Claim: Skin allergies have been the top claim among Nationwide Pet insured dogs for 13 consecutive years.   
• Rising Numbers: In 2024, Nationwide received more than 450,000 individual claims for skin allergies for dogs and cats—a 13% increase from 2023 claims. 
• Dog Days: Skin allergies accounted for 16% of all dog-related claims in 2024. 
• Cats Too: Skin allergies are also among the Top 10 most common claims for cats insured by Nationwide Pet.   
• Associated costs:  
  • For dogs: About $266* within the first 30 days after diagnosis; projected to reach $841** after one year.  
  • For cats: About $318* within the first 30 days after diagnosis: projected to reach $592** after one year. 

Find Nationwide’s full Top 10 list of most common claims here.    

Understanding Pet Allergies   
Pet allergies can be triggered by a variety of sources—pollen, dust mites, certain foods, and even flea bites. Common symptoms include:  

• Persistent itching  
• Redness or skin inflammation 
• Skin infections due to excessive scratching 

While symptoms start out mild, it's important to consult with a veterinarian if you notice them. They can assess your pet's condition and recommend appropriate treatment.  

“Itchy skin is the most common condition we see affecting dogs. Often, when a pet is diagnosed with skin allergies, it is a chronic condition that requires ongoing care,” said Dr. Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. “The financial impact can be just as concerning as the diagnosis of chronic conditions. Understanding this and planning can help pet parents navigate these challenges and ensure their pet receives the care they need.”  

It's uncommon, but allergic reactions can escalate into a life-threatening emergency if they escalate to anaphylaxis (characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, or collapse). If your pet shows signs of an allergic reaction, especially facial swelling or other severe symptoms, seek immediate veterinary care. Early detection and treatment are key to successful management.   

Managing Your Itchy Pet    
Here are some proactive steps to help prevent allergy flare-ups:    

• Reduce indoor allergens: Vacuum and sanitize your dog’s living area frequently and wash pet bedding weekly to minimize dust mites. 
• Limit outdoor exposure: Avoid leaf piles and tall grasses. Wipe your pet’s paws after walks to remove pollen, ragweed, mold spores, and other substances. (A wet rag, unscented baby wipes, or moist paper towel work fine!) 
• Bathe and groom your dog: Use a pet-safe hypoallergenic shampoo and maintain a grooming routine so you can frequently check for irritation.   

Resources for Pet Parents    
For more information on managing pet allergies, visit Nationwide's Pet HealthZone®. This resource offers:   

• Tips for early symptom recognition  
• Understanding treatment options 
• Insights into breed-specific risks based on millions of claims  

This August, let's prioritize understanding and managing our pets’ skin health, helping them thrive throughout the year.  

*This number was calculated by analyzing the 80th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported within the first 30 days after diagnosis for a given condition. 
** These numbers were calculated by analyzing the 80th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported within the first year after diagnosis for a given condition.  

Each year, the nation’s pet health insurance leader recognizes the most unique and clever names among its roster of newly enrolled pets. The top 10 wackiest dog, cat and exotic names were put to a public vote that ran April 15-19.  

To commemorate their wins, the families of Ferret Bueller, American Cheese, and Wendy’s 4 for $4 will each receive a professional photo shoot with their pet and a Purr & Mutt gift card.  

Below are links to names and personal profiles of the other nominees:

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats as well as many avian and exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com. 

Voting for the wackiest dog, cat and exotic pet names is open April 15-19, 2025 at petinsurance.com/wackypetnames. Cast your vote from the pet’s profile page—you can vote once daily for each category.  If voting buttons don't appear, please clear your browser history and refresh the page.  

This year’s nominees include dogs and cats as well a pot belly pig, hedgehog, snake, guinea pig, rat, parrot, conure, rabbit, and ferrets. A winner for each category among dogs, cats and exotic will be announced on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.  

Pet naming tips from previous Wacky Pet Winners  

• Think outside the box—use human names, character names. Inspiration comes when you least expect it.  
• Don’t be scared if you don’t have a perfect name for them the day that you bring them home, wait to see what their personality brings. 
• For many, a good go-to for pets is to have cute food names, but you should also consider things that are within pop culture that you like that might get a reaction. 
• Don’t stick to one right off the bat, explore different options and let your pet’s personality figure some of it. 

 To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian or exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com. 

The pets with the most votes in each category will each receive a professional photo shoot with their pet and a Purr & Mutt gift card. See Official Rules—Wacky Pet Names 

"From skin allergies to arthritis, many of the most common conditions veterinarians diagnose are also those that can require ongoing management," said Dr. Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. "Chronic conditions, in particular, can lead to significant cumulative costs over time. By helping pet families understand disease risks and treatment costs, veterinary teams can help prepare them for long-term care decisions." 

Key takeaways for dogs:   

1. For the 13^th year, skin allergies is the most common health issue for dogs.  
2. The top eight conditions remained unchanged between 2023-24.  
3. Kidney failure is new to the list this year.   
4. Respiratory infection fell out of the top 10 (previously #9 in 2023), but it remains in the top 15. Notably, cruciate tear, seizures and respiratory infection are all very close in ranking, with kidney failure just edging out the others. 
5. Five of the top 10 canine conditions are chronic. According to Nationwide claims data, when the view is expanded to a full year after a pet’s diagnosis***, costs increase as follows: 

               - Skin allergies full year cost: $841   
               - Osteoarthritis full year cost: $1,093  
               - Valvular heart disease full year cost: $1,203   Liver disease full year cost: $770  
               - Kidney failure full year cost: $992  

Key takeaways for cats:   

1. For the second year, gastroenteritis tops the list for cats.  
2. The top 6 conditions did not budge from 2023, but the bottom four conditions flip-flopped a bit this year – previously, rankings had been #7 respiratory infection, #8 diabetes, #9 inflammatory bowel disease, and #10 skin allergies.   
3. Six of the top 10 conditions for cats are chronic, leading to increased cost over time***.  

               - Kidney disease full year cost: $1,201  
               - Osteoarthritis full year cost: $1,274  
               - Hyperthyroid disease full year cost: $1,145  
               - Inflammatory bowel disease full year cost: $1,464 
               - Diabetes mellitus full year cost: $2,240   
               - Atopic or allergic dermatitis full year cost: $592 

While some conditions are unavoidable, veterinarians play a key role in educating pet families about risk factors, early detection, and treatment options. More insights and breed-specific disease trends can be explored on the Nationwide Pet HealthZone®, a resource designed to support veterinary teams and their clients.  

With Nationwide pet health insurance, many diagnostic and treatment expenses for these common conditions are eligible for reimbursement, helping clients manage costs and continue to say yes to the care recommended by their veterinary team. To learn more, visit petinsurance.com/veterinarians. 

** These numbers were calculated by analyzing the 80^th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported within the first 30 days after diagnosis for a given condition. 
*** These numbers were calculated by analyzing the 80^th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported within the first year after diagnosis for a given condition. 

About Nationwide pet insurance  
With more than 1 million actively insured pets, Nationwide is the first and largest provider of pet health insurance in the United States. Nationwide pet health insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH; National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH. Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Insurance terms, definitions and explanations are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in individual insurance contracts, policies or declaration pages, which are controlling. Pet owners can find Nationwide pet insurance on Instagram. For more information about Nationwide pet insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit petinsurance.com. 

"From itchy skin to upset stomachs, the most common health issues affecting pets are the ones veterinarians see every day,” said Dr. Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. "When a pet is diagnosed with a chronic condition, the financial impact can be just as worrying as the diagnosis itself. Many of these conditions require ongoing care, with costs increasing significantly over time. Understanding potential health risks and planning ahead can help pet parents navigate these challenges and ensure their pets receive the care they need." 

Key takeaways for dogs: 

1. For the 13^th year, skin allergies are the most common health issue for dogs.
2. The top eight conditions remained unchanged between 2023-24.
3. Kidney failure is new to the list this year.
4. Respiratory infection fell out of the top 10 (previously #9 in 2023), but it remains in the top 15. Notably, cruciate tear, seizures and respiratory infection are all very close in ranking, with kidney failure just edging out the others.  

Five of the top 10 conditions for dogs are chronic, meaning they require long-lasting care. Here are the projected cost for treating these chronic conditions after one year***.

• Skin allergies full year cost: $841 
• Arthritis full year cost: $1,093
• Heart disease full year cost: $1,203 
• Liver disease full year cost: $770
• Kidney failure full year cost: $992 

Key takeaways for cats: 

1. For the second year, diarrhea/intestinal upset tops the list for cats.
2. The top 6 conditions did not budge from 2023, but the bottom four conditions flip-flopped a bit this year – previously, rankings had been #7 respiratory infection, #8 diabetes, #9 inflammatory bowel disease, and #10 skin allergies.  

Six of the top 10 conditions for cats are chronic, leading to increased cost over time. Here are the projected cost for treating these chronic conditions after one year***.  

• Kidney disease full year cost: $1,201
• Arthritis full year cost: $1,274
• Hyperthyroidism full year cost: $1,145
• Inflammatory bowel disease full year cost: $1,464
• Diabetes full year cost: $2,240 
• Skin allergies full year cost: $592 

While not all conditions – chronic or acute – can be prevented, pet parents should know their pets’ risks and recognize the role they play in helping to reduce risk or catch signs and symptoms as early as possible. Pet parents can learn more about these and many other pet diseases and conditions by visiting the Nationwide Pet HealthZone^®, a free website with over 100 dog breeds and 11 cat breeds that help pet families discover ways to help keep their pets healthy.  

With Nationwide pet health insurance, many veterinary expenses associated with the diagnosis and treatment of these common conditions are eligible for reimbursement based on the member’s chosen coverage. To explore options visit petinsurance.com.  

** These numbers were calculated by analyzing the 80^th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported within the first 30 days after diagnosis for a given condition. 
*** These numbers were calculated by analyzing the 80^th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported within the first year after diagnosis for a given condition. 

Here’s a ranking of Nationwide® pet insurance members’ top ten favorite teams, as determined by their pets’ names.ⁱ

1. Chicago 
A total of 3,883 pets are named “Bear”—including 3,534 dogs, 318 cats, 11 ferrets, 9 guinea pigs, 8 rabbits, a hamster, a hedgehog and a parrot. An additional 1,681 fans opted for a bear-adjacent name for their pet, including “Grizzly Bear,” “Polar Bear,” “Koala Bear” and the ever-formidable “Teddy Bear.”  

2. Cleveland 
It’s no surprise that a team whose fans are known as the “Dawg Pound” were strong in the pet naming category. More than 1,500 pets have “Brown” in their name, including 1383 dogs, 129 cats, 29 guinea pigs, 20 rabbits, 3 bearded dragons, 2 doves, 2 ferrets, 2 geckos and a tortoise. 

3. Cincinnati 
While only 6 cats and 6 dogs who are named “Bengal,” there are many other ways Cincinnati’s home team is represented. For one, Nationwide Pet Insurance  protects 2,033 Bengal cats, who, like the team, are known for their stripey uniform. An additional 952 members chose “Tiger” as their nom de pet, including 629 cats, 312 dogs, 4 rabbits, 3 parrots, a bearded dragon and a gerbil. 

4. Baltimore 
Baltimore fans came on strong for their team. More than 820 pets are named “Raven,” including 574 dogs, 239 cats, 3 guinea pigs, 3 rabbits, 2 bearded dragons, a chicken, a parakeet and a rat. 

5. Kansas City 
In total, 587 are named “Chief,” including 557 dogs, 27 cats and 3 rabbits. “Mischief” is another potentially popular name for those counter-surfing, furniture destroying pets who live in the Chief Kingdom. 43 cats, 22 dogs, 2 rabbits, a ferret, a bearded dragon, and a monitor lizard share this telling moniker. 

6. New Orleans 
There are 250 pets named “Saint,” including 228 dogs, 21 cats and a rabbit. An additional 75 pets have “Saint” in their name—making “Saint Nicholas,” “Yves Saint Laurent” and the ever-popular “Croissaint” de facto fans.  

7. Dallas 
In total, 283 pet names contain “Cowboy” including 234 dogs, 47 cats, a rabbit and a macaw. 

8. Las Vegas 
A total of 226 pets are named “Raider” (209 dogs, 17 cats and 1 African grey parrot) plus one “Raiderette” from the team hub in Las Vegas.  

9. San Francisco 
A grand total of 27 dogs are named “Niner” with 67% of those pets living in the Golden State.  

10. Philadelphia 
Five dogs are named “Eagle” including a Chihuahua, a golden retriever, a German Shepherd, a Cavapoo and a small mixed-breed pup. However, this team, known as “The Birds,” is also highly represented by our avian members, including numerous pets who are named “Bird:” An African grey parrot, 2 cockatiels, 2 cockatoos, 5 conures, a lovebird, a macaw, a parakeet and 2 parrots. 

Bonus round: Peyton Manning Nationwide’s favorite play caller got a few nods from his devoted football fan pet families. In total, 213 members named their pet “Peyton,” including a devoted Maltipoo in Colorado who is named “Peyton Manning.” So far, no Nationwide-protected pets are named Paintin’ Manning, but the year is still young.

Pet owners can enter to win the ultimate 2025 NFL Kickoff experience  
Share your pet’s gameday photo on Instagram or X using #BoopInTheBayouContest for a shot at two tickets to 2025 NFL Kickoff.ⁱⁱ   

Here’s what’s on the line: 

• Two tickets to 2025 NFL Kickoffⁱⁱⁱ 
• Roundtrip airfare for two
• A two-night stay near the game venue 
• A signed football from Peyton Manning 
   

Whether your pet is rocking a jersey, tailgating with the crew or cheering from the couch, their game day spirit could score you the ultimate prize—submit your photos before the final whistle! 

[i] Name data as of 12/2024 

[ii] Contest runs on 2/9. Not available in Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Washington. See official rules.

[iii] The location of the NFL Kickoff Game is to be determined. If the selected game is held outside of the United States, tickets to an alternative game within the United States will be provided. The NFL Entities shall have no liability or responsibility for any claim arising in connection with participation in this Sweepstakes or any prize awarded. The NFL Entities have not offered or sponsored this sweepstakes in any way. Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH; National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH. Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Third party marks are the property of their respective owners. ©2025 Nationwide. 24REF10343M

“Pets are naturally curious, especially around food and beverages, but certain holiday treats are particularly bad for them,” says Dr. Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. “Many pet owners are unaware that even small amounts of festive staples can lead to illness, from mild stomach upset to more serious toxic reactions, causing discomfort for pets and unexpected stress for the family during the holidays.” 

• Chocolate Toxicity: 19% of Nationwide’s 2023 chocolate toxicity claims were submitted in December, with a 140% spike in claims in the final two weeks. Ingesting chocolate can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, a racing heart rate, and even seizures in severe cases. Estimated treatment cost*: $830 
• Alcohol Toxicity: Even small amounts can cause lethargy, vomiting, and respiratory distress. Estimated treatment cost: $988 
• Pancreatitis: Caused when pets eat fatty foods like ham, dark meat turkey, turkey skin, and gravy, pancreatitis is the painful and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas, causing symptoms like vomiting and lethargy. Estimated treatment cost: $1,400+, depending on the severity of the case  

*Based on 30 days after diagnosis, 80^th percentile of claims received 

Festive Foods to Avoid 
In addition to chocolate, fatty foods, and alcohol, keep pets away from these holiday ingredients:  

• Onions, Garlic, and Chives: Can cause anemia in dogs and cats 
• Grapes and Raisins: Can lead to kidney failure in dogs 
• Spices: Nutmeg, cloves, allspice, onion and garlic powder, and paprika should all stay off the menu due to risk of stomach upset or toxic reaction 
• Xylitol (found in sugar-free items): Can cause severe drops in blood sugar and liver failure in pets 
• Bones and Corn Cobs: Can either splinter while chewing or become lodged in a pet’s stomach or intestines 

Fun Foods to Offer 
If you want to indulge your pet this holiday, stick with small samplings of foods that they’ll love, and won’t make them sick. Make sure morsels are appropriately sized for your pet’s mouth and won’t be swallowed. 

• Pumpkin (puree, not pie filling): Mix a spoonful into their food bowl or bake it into a pet-safe cookie recipe.  
• Apple: Packed with fiber and vitamins A and C, apples can be sliced or diced into the food bowl.  
• Carrots: Raw or cooked carrots are good for pets’ teeth and packed with beta-carotene and fiber. 
• Green beans: These fiber-rich veggies can be steamed or raw. 
• White-meat turkey: Plain, cooked, unseasoned turkey breast can be a protein-packed treat for pets. 

Nationwide’s digital platform, the Pet HealthZone®, is a free tool pet parents can use to determine their pet’s unique risk levels and learn about symptoms to watch for, what to expect at the vet, and potential costs associated with treatment of conditions like toxicity and foreign body ingestion.  

With Nationwide pet insurance, eligible veterinary expenses may be reimbursed based on the member’s chosen coverage. To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.comⁱ. 

ⁱ Some exclusions may apply. Certain coverages may be excluded due to pre-existing conditions. See policy documents for a complete list of exclusions and any annual limits that may apply. Plans may not be available in all states. Policy eligibility may vary.  

Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH; National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH. Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review and approval. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Insurance terms, definitions and explanations are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in individual insurance contracts, policies or declaration pages, which are controlling. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. ©2024 Nationwide.  

Luca, a Massachusetts dog who dismantled a kitchen cabinet, has captured the 16^th annual Hambone Award^® which recognizes the most unusual pet insurance claim of the year. Nationwide^® presents the award annually to bring awareness to the unique and surprising things that can happen to pets – and how pet insurance plays a role in helping them. 

Shiloh shepherd Luca was destined to be a match for his owner, Lori, who has a deep connection in the shepherd rescue community and has fostered and adopted numerous pups. Lori explains how a snafu with Luca’s crate training led to his nomination for the Hambone award. 

Luca had been good around the house—and was a something of drama king about staying in his crate—so Lori let him run free while she ran a quick errand. After returning home, Lori explained, “I looked up the stairs and I see my cabinet gone. He pulled the entire cabinet out, track and everything. The barrel and the front of the cabinet was flung over into my dining room.” In addition to the dismantled cabinet, Luca had gotten into the trash that was hidden inside and attempted to eat everything.

"Lori did an amazing job being able to overlook the damage to their home - at least temporarily! - and focus on Luca's health. The corn cobs that Luca had eaten posed an immediate risk of intestinal obstruction and her quick action was critical to a good end result," said Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. “Credit for this Hambone's happy ending is also due to the efforts of Luca’s veterinary care team – and his family's decision to protect him with Nationwide pet insurance.” 

Lori’s experience in the foster world first introduced her to pet health insurance. Having supported many pups over the years, she understands the importance of protecting them from the unexpected, saying, “It gives you the freedom to be prepared for emergencies, if they come up, and just care for your pet.” 

Nationwide hosted a public vote August 13-22, 2024, to determine the most unusual story and two runners-up from a field of 8 finalists. Luca and Lori receive the coveted Hambone Award trophy and a Petco gift card. 

The runners-up were Lambeau, a mixed-breed from North Carolina who consumed more than 250 jigsaw puzzle pieces and Archie, an excitable mixed-breed pup from New Jersey who went through his front door to greet the mailperson. The families of Archie and Lambeau each receive a Petco gift card. 

The Hambone Award was originally named after a Nationwide-insured dog who got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire holiday ham while waiting to be discovered. The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia. Check out the stories of all eight 2024 nominees in the Nationwide Newsroom.  

All nominated pets have recovered and received reimbursements for eligible veterinary expenses from Nationwide^® pet insurance.  

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.com.  

The Hambone Award was originally named after a Nationwide-insured dog who got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire holiday ham while waiting to be discovered. The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia.  

This year’s class of nominees overcame animal encounters, unusual ingestions, self-guided home destruction and even tangled toenails. Voting for this year’s most unusual pet insurance claim is underway now through August 22, 2024, at petinsurance.com/hamboneaward. Results will be shared on August 27, 2024.    

Meet the 2024 Hambone Award finalists 

• Archie, a mixed-breed pup from New Jersey, broke through a vintage plate glass door and injured his paws while trying to alert his family to the mail carrier. Despite a gruesome scene created in the house, his injuries were not life threatening and just required a few stitches.   
• Bear, a Corgi pup in Pennsylvania, found himself in a sticky situation after he sank his teeth into a bottle of nail adhesive and got glue in his mouth. It was a relief to the family to find out that the glue was not poisonous and did not cause any serious health impacts.   
• Clover, a Conure parrot from South Jersey, got her feet stuck together when toenails from each foot’s claws became hooked. The veterinarian discovered that a recent growth spurt in her claw nails had created an awkward nail shape on her back foot leading to the tangled talons. Fortunately, it was an easy fix. 
• Irma, a Maltese living in Florida, experienced strange, ongoing gastrointestinal issues after apparently ingesting metal wire bits, possibly bristles from a barbecue brush. After an ultrasound revealed the foreign bodies lodged deep in Irma’s digestive system, the veterinarian was able to recommend a new diet that included fiber supplements and a homemade, balanced diet.   
• Kodiak, a Gordon setter from Virginia who has history as a serial stone-snacker, ingested two rocks she found in the backyard. Luckily, the veterinarian was able to retrieve one of the rocks without major surgery while the other passed out of her system without issue. 
• Lambeau, a mixed breed from North Carolina, had a puzzling snack, consuming more than 250 jigsaw puzzle pieces—eating only the loose pieces, leaving the border and the corners untouched. After an emergency veterinary visit, they were able to recover all the puzzle pieces without surgery.   
• Luca, a Shiloh shepherd from Massachusetts, dismantled a kitchen cabinet, pulling it off the hinges while attempting to forage through the garbage bin. While assessing the trash Shiloh left on the floor, his owner discovered bits of corn cob—a major risk for a gastrointestinal obstruction. After receiving veterinary attention, Luca was able to return home and made a quick recovery. 
• Skye, a Great Dane from Oregon, squared up with a wily weasel in the family’s backyard. He returned messy and with a small bite wound on his right eyelid. Luckily, Skye was not  seriously injured by the weasel experience and made a full recovery.    

All nominated pets have made full recoveries and received reimbursements for eligible veterinary expenses from Nationwide^® pet insurance. For a more detailed account of each story, photos of the nominees, and a link to open voting August 13-22, 2024, visit petinsurance.com/hamboneaward. 

 "Every year, the Hambone Award celebrates the recoveries of our pet nominees, made possible by the dedication of their pet parents and the expertise of their veterinary healthcare teams,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. "We applaud both and continue to focus on supporting them as they provide pets with the care they need." 

 One grand prize winner will receive the coveted Hambone Award trophy and a Petco gift card. Two runners-up will also each receive gift cards from Petco. 

 To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.com.  

August is Itchy Pet Month, and no surprise, Nationwide® sees a 45% increase in claims for allergic reactions, including skin allergies, between spring and summer months. This is most likely due to pets spending more time outside, allowing them to be exposed to increased allergens in the environment.  

As we navigate Itchy Pet Month, it's a good idea for pet parents to learn how to recognize, manage, and prevent allergies in furry friends.  

Skin Allergy Stats:  

• Skin allergies have been the #1 most common claim among Nationwide-insured dogs for 12 years.  
• In 2023, Nationwide received 410,500 individual claims for skin allergies (up 10% from 373,000 in 2022).  
• Skin allergies represented 20% of the claims Nationwide received for dogs in 2023.
• Dog parents can expect to pay about $240* for treatment of skin allergies within the first 30 days after diagnosis. Since allergies tend to be chronic, those costs often continue over the dog’s life.  
• Skin allergies are also among the Top 10 most common claims for cats insured by Nationwide.  
• The estimated cost for cats is $289 * within the first 30 days after diagnosis.  

Get Nationwide’s full Top 10 list of most common claims here.  

Understanding Pet Allergies  

Allergies in pets can stem from a range of sources, including pollen, dust mites, certain foods, and even flea bites. Symptoms often include itching, redness, skin inflammation, and sometimes secondary infections due to excessive scratching.  

While most reactions start out mild, it's wise to consult with a veterinarian if you notice them. They can assess your pet's condition and provide appropriate guidance and treatment options, including determining the cause of the reaction.  

It's uncommon, but allergic reactions can progress to a life-threatening emergency if they escalate to anaphylaxis (characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, or collapse). Seek immediate veterinary attention if your pet shows signs of an allergic reaction, especially if swelling is seen around the face. Early detection and intervention can improve the chances of successful management and prevent complications.  

Managing Your Itchy Pet  

To help prevent allergy flare-ups, take these steps:  

• Reduce allergens indoors: Dust mites can kick allergies into high gear, so vacuum and sanitize your dog’s living area frequently and wash pet bedding weekly.  
• Avoid allergens outdoors: Steer clear of leaf piles and tall grasses. Wipe your pet’s paws after coming inside to get pollen, ragweed, mold spores, and other substances off. (A wet rag, unscented baby wipes, or moist paper towel work fine!)  
• Bathe and groom your dog: Use a pet-safe hypoallergenic shampoo and maintain a grooming routine so you can frequently check for irritation.  

Resources for Pet Parents  

For comprehensive information on pet allergies and how to support your itchy pet, explore Nationwide's Pet HealthZone®. This resource offers valuable insights into recognizing allergy symptoms early, understanding treatment options, and maintaining your pet's overall well-being.  

Pet parents can also look up their dog or cat’s breed and discover the conditions they are at higher risk for developing (allergies among them!), based on analysis of millions of claims submitted to Nationwide.  

This August, let's prioritize understanding and managing our pets’ skin health, helping them thrive throughout the year.  

*This number was calculated by analyzing the 80th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported within the first 30 days after diagnosis for a given condition.  

It’s also the purr-fect time to expand your knowledge about cat care to ensure their optimal wellbeing and comfort.  

Whether you’ve loved many cats in your life or you’re thinking of adding your first feline friend to your family, Nationwide created the Pet HealthZone, a free online resource featuring 11 cat breeds and over 100 dog breeds. From the majestic Maine Coon to the sleek Sphynx, the Pet HealthZone offers detailed profiles of each breed, shedding light on their unique characteristics, temperaments, and healthcare needs. For prospective cat parents, this resource can serve as a roadmap, guiding them towards a breed that aligns with their lifestyle and preferences.  

Written and edited by a team of veterinarians and breed experts, the Pet HealthZone is a trustworthy resource for veteran and newbie cat parents alike. What truly sets it apart is the health information, drawn from claims data from nearly half a million cats. This wealth of information allows cat owners to make informed decisions about their pet's well-being, from healthcare to lifestyle choices.  

Stay Ahead of Feline Health Issues  
Start by visiting your cat’s breed page, then locate the Health Planner, which includes three high-risk conditions for each life stage. Taking note of the conditions in each stage – and observing their progression throughout your cat’s life – can offer valuable clues to watch for in your cat’s health. For example:  

• Domestic Medium Hair kittens have a moderate risk (2-3x higher than all other cats) of having a foreign body ingestion, which makes sense since curious kitties may put things in their mouths. So monitor this behavior carefully. (Good news, though! As they mature, their risk lowers to be about the same as all other cats, so it seems most learn their lesson while they’re young.)  
• Maine Coons start to develop above-average risk for cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition, in their young adult years (ages 2-6). That risk continues to grow as they age, and by the time they reach senior status at age 11, their risk is more than 4x higher than all other cat breeds. So it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the early signs and be proactive in discussing the risk with your cat’s veterinary healthcare team.  

Familiarize yourself with signs that might indicate your pet may be experiencing a health problem, including some that may seem vague (like coughing or open-mouth breathing, which can indicate heart disease) or unexpected (like hyperactivity). One Nationwide veterinarian reported treating an arthritic cat named Buzz whose only symptom was that he had mysteriously licked all the fur off his elbows. Cats (and dogs) often lick painful areas, and it turns out poor Buzz was licking to try and soothe his sore joints.  

You can also do deeper dives into those conditions, with pages devoted to each that include signs to watch for, what might happen at the vet, and prevention tips. Make sure to check out the top 5 most common feline claims Nationwide saw in 2023:  

• Diarrhea/intestinal upset (Gastroenteritis)  
• Urinary tract disease  
• Kidney failure  
• Dental disease  
• Arthritis  

Fun for the Feline Family  
The Pet HealthZone isn’t just about sharing health info, though. You’ll also find fun facts, a quiz to discover out how unique your cat is (ever wondered how many other felines share their same name?) and lots more:  

• Grooming tips, including when you should be concerned about your cat’s coat  
• Enrichment ideas to keep cats happy and active indoors  
• Ways to encourage appropriate scratching behaviors  
• Best practices for litter box selection and placement  

As we embrace the spirit of June's feline festivities, let us not only shower our cats with affection but also equip ourselves with the knowledge and resources to ensure their long and healthy lives. With the Nationwide Pet HealthZone at your fingertips, you embark on a journey of understanding and appreciation for the diverse and enchanting world of cats.  

Step 1: Dive into your pet’s breed

1.  Explore breed profiles: Visit the Pet HealthZone to discover detailed profiles of over 100 dog breeds and 11 cat breeds, including fun, helpful info on grooming, exercise and enrichment, and more. Whether your new addition is a registered purebred, a delightful mix, or somewhere in between, understanding their specific needs is essential.

2. Discover health risks: Each breed profile includes valuable insights based on 40+ years of Nationwide pet claims data, which shows that different breeds have increased risks for developing certain health conditions depending on their age. If you have any clues about your pet’s parentage or DNA, explore those breeds too. Knowing their risks can help you become a more prepared, tuned-in pet parent.

Step 2: Collaborate with your veterinary healthcare team

1. Pet health planner: During your pet’s first visit with your veterinary healthcare team, share what you’ve learned from the Pet HealthZone, particularly the "My Pet’s Health Planner" section. Your veterinarian is your ally in safeguarding your pet’s health and well-being.

2. Goal setting: Discuss your goals for your pet’s health. Whether it’s preventive measures, nutrition, or behavior, your veterinarian can best partner with you when they understand your needs and financial expectations.

3. Life stage considerations: Ask your veterinarian about specific conditions related to your pet’s life stage and environment. Puppies and kittens have unique needs, and tailoring prevention plans early sets your pet up for long-term health.

Step 3: Stay connected

1. Adapt to Changing Needs: As your pet grows, their requirements evolve. Each life stage introduces distinct health risks. For instance, older pets might benefit from orthopedic beds to support their joints, and the addition of non-slip rugs can help prevent falls on slippery floors. Additionally, placing food and water dishes at a comfortable height can ease strain on their neck and back.

Did you know?

Different breeds mature at different rates. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), this is the age when the following dogs become Young Adults (no longer puppies!): 

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: 7 months 
• English Bulldog: 10 months 
• Goldendoodle: 1 year 

Regardless of your pet’s breed or mix, they rely on you to ensure their well-being. Explore the Nationwide Pet HealthZone to proactively meet your pet’s unique needs. By doing so, you’ll contribute to their overall health and happiness while strengthening the bond you share for years to come.

Unum Pet Insurance is provided by Nationwide, the pet insurance industry leader with more than four decades of experience and over a million pets protected. Research shows that pet insurance is quickly becoming one of the most desired benefit offerings for today’s workforce. As the costs of pet ownership continues to rise, Unum Pet Insurance can help employees manage everything from accidents to illnesses to wellness and preventative care, while also helping employers boost overall engagement and satisfaction with their benefits. Unum Pet Insurance is a seamless solution for offering pet insurance alongside your Unum voluntary benefits.

“We are thrilled to be rounding out our voluntary benefits portfolio with the addition of Unum Pet Insurance,” said Tim Arnold, Unum Group’s executive vice president of voluntary benefits and president of Colonial Life, a Unum Group company. “As workforce needs and employee expectations evolve, we must too. Employees want more than protection for themselves — they want to ensure their families are cared for as well. For employers, it is important to remember that everyone defines family differently, and for many, pets are just as important as any other member of the household. Unum Pet Insurance ensures that we’re meeting employees where they’re at and fulfilling our purpose of helping the working world thrive throughout life’s moments.” 

Unum Pet Insurance covers the big stuff, the small stuff and everything in between. Key coverage features include:

• Usable through any licensed veterinarian, with anytime mobile claims and digital payments
• 50% and 70% reimbursement options available
• VetHelpline® – 24/7 access to live veterinary professionals via video consultation
• Discounts on eligible pet prescriptions available through participating pharmacies
• Coverage for emergency boarding costs if a human in the house is hospitalized for illness or injury
• Optional Wellness coverage for non-accident and illness related costs like physicals, vaccines, flea and tick, microchipping, deworming, etc.
• Lost pet support – Coverage for advertising costs and rewards for finding a lost pet, plus additional coverage if the pet isn’t found within two months
• Mortality (life insurance) – Coverage for euthanasia, cremation and burial, and original pet cost (all up to a combined $1,000)
   

Nationwide, the provider of Unum Pet Insurance, originated pet health insurance in the U.S. more than 40 years ago and currently protects more than 1.2 million dogs, cats and exotic pets. Nationwide was also the first carrier to offer pet insurance as a voluntary benefit through brokers and employee groups more than 20 years ago. Nationwide’s wealth of knowledge and experience will support Unum Group’s efforts to fully protect workers and their families through the companies’ partnership in the Unum Pet Insurance offering.

“Employers are looking for every lever to keep their best employees and attract top talent, and research shows that offering pet-related benefits provides that competitive advantage,” said Melissa Lovely, Vice President of Sales for Nationwide pet insurance. “Offering pet health insurance as a voluntary benefit is a win/win for employer and employee. It demonstrates that the company is invested in the wellbeing of the whole family, and it makes it easier and more affordable for employees to protect their beloved pets. This partnership between Nationwide and Unum positions our industry-leading companies to support a greater number of pet-owning employees and provide more care for more pets.”

Learn more about Unum Pet Insurance here.

ABOUT UNUM GROUP
Unum Group (NYSE: UNM), a leading international provider of workplace benefits and services, has been helping workers and their families thrive for more than 175 years. Through its Unum and Colonial Life brands, the company offers disability, life, accident, critical illness, dental, vision and stop-loss insurance; leave and absence management support; and behavioral health services. In 2023, Unum Group reported revenues of more than $12 billion and paid approximately $8 billion in benefits. The Fortune 500 company is recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere^®.

Visit the Unum Group newsroom for more information, and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

About Unum Pet Insurance
Pet insurance plans are marketed by Unum Insurance Agency, LLC, a licensed insurance agency. For the complete licensing information of Unum Insurance Agency, LLC, refer to www.unum.com/pet-insurance-state-licensing. "Unum Pet Insurance" is a marketing name used by Unum Insurance Agency, LLC. Unum Insurance Agency, LLC is a subsidiary of Unum Group and is not a Nationwide business or affiliate.

About Nationwide pet insurance
With more than 1.2 million insured pets, Nationwide is the first and largest provider of pet health insurance in the United States. Nationwide pet health insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH; National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH. Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Insurance terms, definitions and explanations are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in individual insurance contracts, policies or declaration pages, which are controlling. Pet owners can find Nationwide pet insurance on Facebook or follow on X. For more information about Nationwide pet insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit petinsurance.com.

“My stepmom said, ‘Something has happened, and we're really sorry, but [Giles] got trapped under the couch.’ When they put the couch away, they didn't realize that he was under there and … the mechanism bopped him in the face pretty good.” Recounts Reid, “Luckily, we have a wonderful vet hospital just around the corner from us, so we were able to take him right there. Fortunately, it wasn't too bad. He did need some stitches … but he was the model patient.” 

Giles’s situation was enough to earn him Nationwide’s 2023 Hambone Award for most unusual pet claim.(Read more about Giles story).  

Fortunately, Kaitlyn’s workplace offered Nationwide pet insurance as a voluntary benefit. The family decided to invest in pet health insurance after a costly trip to the veterinary hospital one Christmas Eve spurred them to seek coverage for future unexpected events. Their Nationwide pet insurance plan covered Giles’s sofa bed mishap injuries. 

Rising costs increase need for coverage 
Stories like Giles’s are far too common to Nationwide, which insures more than 1.2 million pets. That’s why the team encourages pet parents to consider pet insurance. 

“Across the country, pet care costs are rising, and many families are choosing pets and breeds that require greater medical care," said Melissa Lovely, Nationwide’s vice president of sales. “Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, inflation in the cost of veterinary services has risen from historical averages of 3-5% per year to 9-11% per year during the past two years. This amplifies the need for families to ensure they are well-protected in times of need.” 

Extended care costs can add up 
Pet insurance isn’t just for emergencies. Conditions like skin allergies and heart disease take multiple veterinary visits, tests and medications to treat. Sometimes those conditions may require extended care – and those costs can add up! 

For a list of the most common conditions that prompt veterinary visits and the costs associated with them, click here.  

No such thing as “one size fits all” 
Despite the rising costs of pet health care, many pet parents may be hesitant to purchase insurance given their economic situation. Nationwide has developed an option for those situations.  

“No two pets are alike and so ‘one-size-fits-all’ pet insurance plans don’t always make sense for every pet,” said Clarissa Klomparens, Nationwide’s Associate Vice President of Pet Product. “Nationwide developed our modular pet insurance product to allow pet families to customize the pet insurance plan to meet their particular needs.”  

Buy through your employer 
In addition to a mix of protection solutions available to fit the varying needs and budgets of general consumers, Nationwide offers a workplace product designed exclusively to be offered as a voluntary benefit. The voluntary benefit space continues to be a strong area of growth with many  Fortune 500 companies and thousands of organizations across the U.S. offering Nationwide pet health insurance as a voluntary benefit.  

Click here to find out if your company or membership group offers Nationwide pet insurance as a voluntary benefit.  

Prevention perks for your pet included 
Nationwide also offers other perks benefits like VetHelpline®, which offers Nationwide pet insurance members unlimited access to phone and video consultations with certified veterinary experts at no additional cost. Nationwide’s Pet HealthZone® is designed to help pet parents uncover the increased health risks their pet may face, along with lots of fun information about how to love and care for them. 

Also, Nationwide’s Pet RxExpress program gives members discounts on pet medications at Walmart and Sam's Club pharmacies, as well as a 10% discount on all Petco veterinary services. 

“We believe pet parents should have the flexibility to choose the level of veterinary care that aligns with their resources, values, and the needs of their pets,” says Dr. Jules Benson, Nationwide’s Chief Veterinary Officer. “By offering services like Pet RxExpress, the VetHelpline, and the Pet HealthZone, we’re broadening opportunities to meet pet families where they are, offering simple, convenient ways to support their pets’ health and wellbeing.” 

Backed by the power of Nationwide 
When you purchase a Nationwide pet insurance policy, you’ll know that the product is backed by an insurance and financial services company that has been serving its customers for nearly 100 years. Nationwide has been a leading pet insurer since it started offering the product 40 years ago.  

“Despite the recent headwinds the pet insurance industry has been facing, Nationwide is unwavering in its commitment to our pet insurance customers and business,” said J.J. Pérez, Nationwide’s President of Corporate Solutions. “We will continue to take steps to help us navigate these challenges so we can deliver on our promise to provide exceptional service and extraordinary care for our partners, their customers and their pets – now and in the future.”

For more information about Nationwide pet insurance and to find a plan that works for you, visit www.petinsurance.com. 

“When we talk about protecting pets, our minds often go to worst-case scenarios like broken bones or cancer. These are most certainly situations where having pet insurance can help, but we might not always give proper thought to the everyday reasons our pets will visit the vet,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Nationwide's Chief Veterinary Officer and Vice President of Pet Health. “Common conditions like skin allergies and heart disease can result in costs for visits, tests and medications that add up quickly, and often require lifelong care. At Nationwide, we know the value in having a plan for everyday pet problems, as well as those that are more unusual!” 

Key takeaways 

• In 2023, Nationwide members filed more than 1.5 million individual claims to treat top 10 medical conditions affecting dogs and cats 
• For the 12^th year, skin allergies is most the most common health issue for dogs, with more than 410,500 individual claims received in 2023 (up from 373,000 the year before) 
  • Skin allergies represent 20% of total unique claims for dogs in 2023  
• Diarrhea/intestinal upset tops the list for cats with more than 25,000 individual claims received in 2023 
• Conditions common among both dogs and cats: 
  • Gastrointestinal disease ranks among top two conditions for both species 
  • Arthritis is a top-five condition among both  
  • Dental disease shows up among top six conditions for both  
  • Other conditions common among both species include urinary tract infection and respiratory infection  

Pet parents may learn more about these and many other pet diseases and conditions by visiting the Pet HealthZone.  

With Nationwide pet health insurance, many veterinary expenses associated with the diagnosis and treatment of these common conditions are eligible for reimbursement based on the member’s chosen coverage. To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats, and many avian or exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com.  

* This number was calculated by analyzing the 80th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported within the first 30 days after diagnosis for a given condition. 

“When we looked at the results for the highest-risk conditions across the life stages of certain dog breeds, we noticed the data was telling a particular story,” said Dr. Benson. “Some dog breeds continue to submit claims for what we might think of as ‘silly puppy’ conditions – including trauma, foreign body ingestion, and toxicity – well into their mature and even senior life stages.” 

The list of “Peter Pan pups” includes some usual suspects, but others may be surprising to those expecting to see only Labradors on the list: 

Top 3 breeds most likely to submit a foreign body ingestion claim as mature adults: 

1. English Bull Terrier (2.6x more likely than all other dog breeds) 
2. Bernese Mountain Dog (1.9x) 
3. American Bulldog (1.6x) 

"Most improved" for foreign body claims might go to the Samoyed, who is a whopping 10x as likely to submit a claim as a puppy, but seems to mature well, going down to average risk as a mature adult. 

Top 5 breeds most likely to submit a trauma claim as mature adults: 

1. Greyhound (3x more likely than all dog breeds) 
2. Belgian Malinois (1.9x) 
3. Airedale Terrier (1.8x) 
4. German Shepherd (1.6x) 
5. Weimaraner (1.6x) 

For trauma, the Shetland Sheepdog finds their feet more aptly, going from high risk (5.8x) as a puppy to a slightly below average risk as a mature adult.  

Cats in Contrast 
Interestingly, the Nationwide team did not see this “eternal youth” trend continue among felines. While some breeds did have foreign body ingestion on the list as young adults (the Siberian took first place with risk 2.8x greater than other breeds, closely followed by the Maine Coon with 2.1x risk), no cat breed had foreign body, trauma, or toxicity listed beyond the young adult life stage. They didn't rank at all for any life stage among British Shorthair, Persian or Sphynx – which could earn them the title of most sensible of felines. 

“Could we draw the conclusion that cats seem to be more sensible (or risk-averse!) in general? Perhaps,” said Dr. Benson. “At the very least, the Pet HealthZone can inform those breeds’ pet parents that they can likely focus on other concerns. We hope that by making these pet health insights free and easy for everyone to understand, we can impact the way pets receive care, both at home and in the veterinary clinic.” 

The Nationwide Pet HealthZone is free for all users and can be accessed by visiting ThePetHealthZone.com.  

Each year, the nation’s pet health insurance leader recognizes the most unique and clever names among its roster of more than 1.2 million protected pets. The top 10 wackiest dog, cat and exotic names were put to a public vote that ran April 9-12.

To commemorate their wins, the families of Molly from Corporate, Tony “Scarface” Baloney and Thor Odinbun, God of Bunder will each receive a professional photo shoot with their pet and a gift card to create a custom pet portrait.

Below are links to names and personal profiles of the other nominees:

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats as well as many avian and exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com.

“We know that veterinary healthcare teams are well aware of how common many of these conditions are and how costly it can be to manage them,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Nationwide's Chief Veterinary Officer and Vice President of Pet Health. “Every year, Nationwide’s top claims report brings that awareness to pet families – this year, it is boosted in 2024 by the addition of our Pet HealthZone. This digital resource brings together individual pet risk data, costs, breed info, and fun facts, helping educate pet families on the common (and uncommon!) conditions that their pets might be prone to.” 

Key takeaways 

• In 2023, Nationwide members filed more than 1.5 million individual claims to treat top 10 medical conditions affecting dogs and cats 
• For the 12^th year, atopic or allergic dermatitis is most the most common health issue for dogs with 410,500 individual claims received in 2023 (up from 373,000 the year before) 
• Skin allergies represent 20% of total unique claims for canines in 2023  
• Gastroenteritis tops the list for felines with more than 25,000 individual claims received in 2023 
• Conditions common among cats and dogs: 
  • Gastroenteritis ranks among top two conditions for both species 
  • Degenerative arthritis is a top-five condition among both species 
  • Dental disease shows up among top six conditions for both species 
  • Other conditions common among both species include urinary tract infection and respiratory infection  

More information about these and many other pet diseases and conditions can be found on the Pet HealthZone.  

With Nationwide pet health insurance, many veterinary expenses associated with the diagnosis and treatment of these common conditions are eligible for reimbursement based on the member’s chosen coverage. To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats, and many avian or exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com.  

* This number was calculated by analyzing the 80th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported within the first 30 days after diagnosis for a given condition. 

About Nationwide pet insurance  
With more than 1.2 million insured pets, Nationwide is the first and largest provider of pet health insurance in the United States. Nationwide pet health insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH; National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH. Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Pet owners can find Nationwide pet insurance on Facebook or follow on X. For more information about Nationwide pet insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit petinsurance.com. 

This year’s nominees include dogs and cats as well as a Macaw, guinea pig, snake, tortoise, mini pig, tegu lizard, ferrets, and rabbits. The winners of each category will be announced on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Below are the finalists with links to their personal profiles:

Pet naming tips
Consider the science behind how pets hear and respond to different sounds when selecting a name for your pet. Keep these naming tips in mind to pick the perfect moniker:

• Use hard consonants and vowels: Pets hear and respond better to names that contain strong sounds.
• Avoid command-like names: Subtle differences in sounds that resemble common commands can confuse pets.
• Think about nicknames: For longer names (those with more than one or two syllables), consider a nickname that’s easier for both you and your pet to use daily.
• Test it out: Before finalizing a name, make sure you feel comfortable saying the name or nickname loudly in public.

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian or exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com.

What is it? The Pet HealthZone is a unique digital resource for pet owners. With support from their furry friends, Exploding Pop Tart, Brooklyn and Wrigley, Dr. Emily Tincher, Nationwide’s senior director of pet health, and Melanie Kolp, Nationwide’s senior vice president and chief technology officer of technology strategy, data and innovation, explain how it works.  

Real data, with a Gen AI boost. The insights available in the Pet HealthZone come from 40+ years of providing pet insurance to all kinds of dog and cat breeds. But translating thousands of pages of highly technical veterinary data and information into easily digestible information for pet owners is no easy task.  

In this next video, Tincher and Kolp explain how Gen AI helped Nationwide’s team of data scientists, breed experts and veterinarians write the Pet HealthZone content while ensuring accuracy.  

Barks, vacuums and celebs. In addition to learning about their pet breed’s characteristics, idiosyncrasies and potential ailments, the Pet HealthZone also offers pet families interesting and fun facts, like how much they can expect their pet to shed, how vocal they might be and even the notable personalities who are known to have the same breed in their home.  

Watch the full video below.  

Additional Resources 

• Q&A: Nationwide CTI Jim Fowler Talks Generative AI
• A History of Nationwide’s AI Journey
• How Nationwide is Embracing the Revolution of Generative AI
• Pet HealthZone puts personalized health insights in pet parents’ hands 

“Our new VetHelpline® merges technology with peace of mind for our consumers in one of the most comprehensive solutions in the market today,” said Mariel Devesa, Nationwide Pet’s Head of Growth, Expansion and Development. “Members can now easily access care via our app and have a consultation and video chat with trained staff 24/7.” 

VetHelpline® is exclusive to Nationwide pet insurance members, who can access the service by downloading the app. There, users can receive guidance on pet health concerns from general questions to identifying urgent care needs—because early detection is crucial for preventing small problems from becoming big ones. Learn more at petinsurance.com/usevethelpline. 

“VetHelpline® gives Nationwide members convenience and expertise in the palm of their hand,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. “I can't overstate how helpful it can be for pet families to be able to reach a veterinary professional 24/7. For questions as diverse as, ‘Do I need to go to the emergency room?’ to ‘How do I assess my pet's quality of life?’, this service is an incredible resource." 

VetHelpline® staff has expertise across a wide range of pet health issues, including poisoning, parasites, and infectious diseases.  

Nationwide members who utilize the service should have ready: 

• Your Nationwide pet insurance policy number 
• Your primary concern 
• Your pet’s symptoms and how long they have lasted 
• Any other health problems 
• Current medications 
• Package label if a potentially poisonous substance was ingested   

Please note: VetHelpline® is not a substitute for visiting your primary care veterinarian. Nationwide encourages pet parents to consult with their veterinarian when it is appropriate and safe to do so. 

The recently expanded Pet HealthZone now contains detailed profiles of 11 cat breeds and more than 100 dog breeds, including mixed breeds and popular crossbreeds like Labradoodles and Puggles. Altogether, they represent 97% of the dog breeds and 90% of the cat breeds Nationwide currently insures.

Dr. Jules Benson, Nationwide's Chief Veterinary Officer and Vice President of Pet Health, highlights how the Pet HealthZone supports the loving bond between pet parents and their furry companions: "One way to return our pets’ unconditional love is by ensuring we are the best pet parents we can be. The Pet HealthZone is designed to help pet parents uncover the increased health risks their pet may face, along with lots of fun information about how to love and care for them right. And because the love of pets knows no bounds, the Pet HealthZone is free and accessible for everyone.”

Each breed profile features in-depth information about specific health risks by breed and age, along with ways for pet parents to prevent problems or catch them early. Profiles also include steps veterinary healthcare teams might take to diagnose and treat various conditions, and potential costs that may be associated.

More reasons to love the Pet HealthZone:

• More to adore: The Pet HealthZone is more than just pet health info – it’s a delightful journey for pet lovers, featuring breed origin maps, characteristics, grooming and coat care needs, and exercise and training tips. An interactive “One in a Million” page reveals fun stats for each unique pet.
• Puppy love: Everyone knows love is blind when it comes to puppies, but this is one relationship where it’s better to go in with eyes wide open. Although most puppies are predisposed to putting everything in their mouths, the Pet HealthZone can help pet families better understand which breeds have increased tendencies to experience foreign body ingestions and toxicity. The platform also provides insights on which puppies may be at greater risk of developing hereditary conditions, and what pet parents should watch for to catch those issues early.   
• Looking for love: For families looking to open their hearts and homes to a new pet, the Pet HealthZone can help find a match made in heaven. The site can help prospective pet parents choose the right breed for their lifestyle by identifying a breed’s energy level and exercise requirements, training preferences, and even grooming and coat care needs. Mismatches are common reason pets are surrendered to animal shelters, so diving into the Pet HealthZone can help ensure each pet’s love story has a happy ending.
• Attitude is everything: A feature called "Breed Attribute Badges" can help simplify the matchmaking process for pet parents. These badges highlight pets’ personality traits, grouping breeds together based on their unique attributes. Whether you're searching for a Couch Potato to lounge with, a Runner's Buddy to keep you active, or a dog who Loves Kids, Loves Family (or Loves Everyone!), searching by Breed Attribute makes it easy to find the perfect companion for your lifestyle.
• A labor of love: The Pet HealthZone is derived from an unparalleled analysis of more than 22 million insurance claims spanning Nationwide’s 40-plus years of protecting pets. Analyzing claims from nearly 3 million dogs and cats, this data-driven platform provides evidence-based, veterinary-authored insights pet parents can trust.

Visit ThePetHealthZone.com to learn more and discover ways to nurture each pet’s needs like never before. For information on how to protect your precious pet’s health, visit petinsurance.com

Nationwide^® pet insurance analyzed its database of more than 1.2 million insured pets and released its most common claims and average claim costs for medical conditions that can carry increased risk during the holidays:          

• Ingestion of foreign objects – Tree ornaments, tinsel, ribbons, gift wrap and garlands are often swallowed by curious pets this time of year and, if ingested, may cause serious complications.
  • Average claim for foreign body ingestion: $2,400
• Chocolate & caffeine toxicity – Chocolate is toxic for pets and should always be kept out of reach but the increased presence of sweet treats during the holidays heightens the risk. Among Nationwide claims for chocolate toxicity in a given year, 20% of those claims are submitted in December, with numbers doubling in the last two weeks alone.  
  • Average claim for chocolate toxicity: $618
• Alcohol toxicity – Cups of cheer and empty bottles should be kept well out of pets’ reach to avoid unexpected trips to the emergency room.
  • Average claim for alcohol toxicity: $869
• Poisoning from plant-based items – Holiday hallmarks like amaryllis, mistletoe, holly, holly berries or pine needles from the Christmas tree present various levels of toxicity. Marijuana and cannabis-based edibles, oils and other products containing THC or CBD may also cause illness.  
  • Average claim for plant, plant-based poisoning: $610
• Burns & electric shock – Chewing on string lights or electrical cords can lead to electrical shock injuries or serious burns.
  • Average claim for burns: $180

Make Pet-Proofing a Holiday Tradition
“The majority of holiday-related health hazards are preventable, which is great news, but it does mean taking some extra steps to ensure that everyone in the family can safely enjoy traditions,” says Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. “When it comes to preventing holiday health emergencies, it’s important to consider your pet’s personality. Our data shows that certain breeds and younger pets are at a higher risk for things like foreign body ingestion.  Pet parents should also take time to see their house from their pet’s perspective and pet-proof accordingly.”

To help with pet-proofing for the holidays, pet parents should ask themselves: What is at their pet’s eye level? What could be knocked over by a leaping cat or an enthusiastically wagging tail? Are there exposed wires or cords, low-hanging ornaments, candles, tree water, plants or floral arrangements, candy dishes, food items, garland, or anything else that pets may find new and exciting and want to play with or chew on? Block off areas that might prove too tempting, and crate pets that might get into mischief when you leave the house.

Nationwide’s digital platform, the Pet HealthZone®, is a free tool pet parents can use to determine their pet’s unique risk levels and learn about symptoms to watch for, what to expect at the vet, and potential costs associated with treatment of conditions like toxicity and foreign body ingestion. 

With Nationwide pet insurance, eligible veterinary expenses may be reimbursed based on the member’s chosen coverage. To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.com.

November is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month and Nationwide pet insurance is doing its part by sharing common warning signs, offering pet parents personalized insights on their dog’s relative risk of developing the disease, and providing funds to support research for a cure. 

Look for signs
Improving awareness about common signs of cancer can lead to earlier detection. Signs of cancer can include:

• Changes in appetite or difficulty eating
• Lumps or sores that won’t heal
• Limping or exercise intolerance
• Aversion to touch
• New anxiety or aggression
• Accidents or blood in stool or urine
• Coughing or difficulty breathing

Other conditions may share similar warning signs with cancer, though, so it’s important to watch your pet for subtle changes and call your veterinarian if you have concerns.

Be proactive
Looking at a dog’s breed, size and life stage can help determine its relative risk for cancer. According to extensive analysis of Nationwide claims data, approximately 50% of dogs over the age of 10 will be diagnosed with cancer, with larger dogs at higher risk of developing the disease at an earlier age.

Nationwide’s recently launched digital platform, the Pet HealthZone®, can help pet parents better understand their dog’s risk for cancer, as well as other conditions for which they may be predisposed. The platform includes breed-specific health concerns, symptoms to watch for, preventive measures that may be taken, what to expect at the vet, and potential costs associated with treatment. 

“The thought of receiving a cancer diagnosis for your pet is understandably devastating, however, taking proactive steps to learn about their relative risk can take away some of that fear of the unknown,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. “Using a tool like the Pet HealthZone can not only help you to understand what cancers may be common for your dog’s breed, but also how you might recognize early signs, and what questions you might want to ask your veterinary healthcare team.” 

The tool, which is free for all users, also features general overviews of 16 different types of cancer, including some of the most common among Nationwide-insured dogs: skin cancer, spleen cancer, lymphatic cancer, and liver cancer.

Be prepared
Many veterinary expenses associated with cancer diagnoses and treatments are eligible for reimbursement with Nationwide pet health insurance depending on a member’s plan.

To illustrate the peace of mind that comes with preparedness, check out the story of Nationwide-insured dog Mylo whose aggressive cancer required advanced treatment, a long lost brother, and a financial safety net from Nationwide.

Visit PetInsurance.com to explore coverage options.

Take a walk to #CurePetCancer 
Pet lovers are invited to join the virtual 2023 Nationwide^® Pet Cancer Awareness Walk, presented by the Animal Cancer Foundation and hosted on the WoofTrax mobile app. When registered participants track their walks on the WoofTrax mobile app between now and Nov. 30, 2023, Nationwide will donate 25 cents per walk, up to $60,000, to the Animal Cancer Foundation.  For details and registration, visit wooftrax.com/curepetcancer.

Over the last 13 years, Nationwide has donated nearly $600,000 to the Animal Cancer Foundation’s mission to fund research and increase public awareness of comparative oncology, the study of naturally occurring cancers in pets and people. 

¹ Animal Cancer Foundation, “Cancer & Your Pet: What You Should Know”

Giles, who was named for a character in cult-favorite TV show "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," was adopted from a cat rescue in New York City. He now lives happily in an NYC apartment with pet parents Reid and Kaitlyn. Reid explains how his family’s overnight visit led to Giles’ Hambone Award…and Giles’ newfound aversion to hinged objects.

“My stepmom said, ‘Something has happened, and we're really sorry, but [Giles] got trapped under the couch.’ When they put the couch away, they didn't realize that he was under there and … the mechanism bopped him in the face pretty good.” Reid adds, “Luckily, we have a wonderful vet hospital just around the corner from us, so we were able to take him right there. Fortunately, it wasn't too bad. He did need some stitches … but he was the model patient.” 

Kaitlyn and Reid decided to invest in pet health insurance after a costly trip to the veterinary hospital one Christmas Eve spurred them to seek coverage for future unexpected events. Fortunately, Kaitlyn’s workplace offered Nationwide pet insurance as a voluntary benefit and now Giles is among Nationwide’s more than 1.2 million protected pets.   

“Giles’ predicament shows just how easily an ordinary situation can become precarious for a pet,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. “We’re so glad that the quick actions of Giles’ family and their veterinary care team set him up for a speedy recovery.”

Nationwide hosted a public vote September 13-22, 2023, to determine the most unusual story and two runners-up from a field of 10 finalists. Giles, Kaitlyn and Reid receive the coveted Hambone Award trophy, a gift card, and a donation to be made in Giles’ honor to an approved pet charity of the family’s choice.

The runners-up were Jax, a snuggly pug from Las Vegas who got heat stroke while cozied up in a comforter following surgery, and Sunny, a determined Labrador retriever from Anaheim who shimmied his crate five feet across the room to ingest three phone charger cords. The families of Jax and Sunny each receive a gift card and opportunity for a charity donation to be made in each pet’s honor.

The Hambone Award was originally named after a Nationwide-insured dog who got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire holiday ham while waiting to be discovered. The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia. 

All nominated pets have recovered and received reimbursements for eligible veterinary expenses from Nationwide^® pet insurance.

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many other kinds of pets, visit PetInsurance.com.         

The Hambone Award was originally named after a Nationwide-insured dog who got stuck in a refrigerator and ate an entire holiday ham while waiting to be discovered. The dog was eventually found, with a licked-clean ham bone and a mild case of hypothermia.

This year’s class of nominees overcame animal encounters, entrapments, ingestions, collisions and other precarious predicaments. Voting for this year’s most unusual pet insurance claim is underway now through September 22, 2023. Results will be shared on September 28, 2023.   

Meet the 2023 Hambone Award finalists    

• Aurora, a goldendoodle who currently lives in Belmont, New Hampshire, suffered a broken leg while furiously trying to extract her paw that was stuck in a snow-covered storm drain grate. Emergency surgery was needed to repair the bone that had snapped above her knee, but the playful pup made a full recovery.
• Belle, a Jindo from Atlanta, Georgia, confronted a large deer that wandered into the family’s backyard. Thankfully, the spunky dog’s tussle with the big buck only resulted in soft tissue damage and scratches.
• Bernie, a mixed breed dog from Rescue, California, was tumbled by an ATV while on a Christmas Eve run. His injuries were not life-threatening, but he required significant care and recovery time to get back to his normal self.
• Giles, a kitty from New York City, became smooshed in a sofa when out-of-town visitors inadvertently closed the folding couch…with Giles underneath. Aside from a newfound fear of hinged objects, Giles suffered no lasting effects from the incident.
• Grayson Haze, a Labrador retriever from College Station, Texas, took an unexpected jump off a 36-foot-high bridge and landed onto a concrete embankment. Incredibly, no surgery was necessary, and his internal injuries healed after two months of rest.
• Jax, a snuggly pug from Las Vegas, who was cozied up in a comforter at home while recovering from surgery, became dangerously overheated to the point of heat stroke. After some cooling treatments administered by his veterinary healthcare team, his temperature and temperament returned to normal.
• Josie, a playful mixed breed pup from Alameda, California, lost four teeth and suffered a broken jaw while aggressively chasing a ball during a game of fetch in the San Francisco area. It is suspected that Josie’s injury resulted from a high-speed collision into a pair of cast-iron stadium seats that were mementos from historic Candlestick Park.      
• Miko, a cat from New Orleans who enjoys his outdoor “catio” space, took a seven-foot flying leap at a pair of doves that were starting a nest too close for his comfort. The family’s home security camera showed Miko being bitten near the eye during a mid-air encounter with one of the escaping doves. Beyond a minor cut, he was not seriously harmed.
• Rolex, a green-cheeked conure from Milton, Massachusetts who was visiting a family in another home, found himself a seemingly perfect perch atop an open door. Things took a perilous turn when the homeowner shut the door without looking and inadvertently slammed the bird in the door. Although Rolex’s injuries were quite serious, he was treated and recovered.
• Sunny, a determined Labrador retriever from Anaheim, California who shimmied his crate five feet across the room to get close to an electrical outlet, snagged and ingested three phone charger cords. He underwent an emergency procedure to clear the foreign objects from his system and has fully recovered.

All nominated pets have made full recoveries and received reimbursements for eligible veterinary expenses from Nationwide^® pet insurance. For a more detailed account of each story, photos of the nominees, and a link to vote Sept. 13-22, 2023, visit HamboneAward.com.

“Each year, we’re able to highlight nominees that have made remarkable recoveries because of the diligence of the pet parents and the incredible skills of their treating veterinary healthcare teams,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. “Pets might still get into unusual or unexpected situations, but the peace of mind that comes with Nationwide protection allows pet families and veterinary healthcare teams to focus on what counts.”

The top vote getter will receive the coveted Hambone Award trophy, a gift card and a donation in their name to an approved pet charity of their choice. The second and third finishers will also receive a prize and opportunity for a charity donation.

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian and exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.com.

The modular design of the product, which is now available online at petinsurance.com,^* enables members to dial up or dial down the coverage type that is most important to them. The platform is easy to navigate and offers hundreds of customizable combinations.

How it works

• Visit petinsurance.com and click on “get a quote” to get started.
• Select Accident coverage and choose between annual maximum or unlimited options. Examples of covered Accident conditions include broken bones, poisoning, lacerations, and more.
• Choose to add or decline Illness coverage (subject to age limitations). Examples of covered Illness conditions include ear infections, vomiting, cancer, and more.
• If adding Illness, choose separate or the same annual maximums for Accident and Illness coverage.
• Select medical reimbursement level at 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% (options vary by pet’s age).
• Choose annual deductible at $100, $250 or $500 (applies once across Accident and Illness).
• Choose to add or decline Wellness coverage. If adding, select from choice of annual benefits. Examples of Wellness coverage include routine exams, vaccinations, flea/heartworm prevention, and more.

As customers are guided through each step, their monthly premium total is displayed and will adjust up or down as users toggle between the various coverage combinations.

“Pet parents want options when it comes to managing their pet’s health. Nationwide’s new ‘build your own plan’ offering, that is now available online, offers maximum flexibility to choose the kind of protection they want at a price point they can afford,” said Heidi Sirota, Chief Pet Officer and President, Nationwide pet insurance. “Giving pet parents an easy-to-understand way to create customized coverage helps us meet customers where they are and deliver on our mission to provide #morecareformorepets.”   

Coverage in some areas starts as low as $16/month for dogs and $5/month for cats. For more information on Nationwide’s pet insurance plans and benefits, visit petinsurance.com or call 1-866-880-4717.

^* Not yet available in California, Maine or New York.

Nationwide is providing that insight (and more!) to all pet parents for free through its new online platform, the Pet HealthZone^®. The groundbreaking digital experience leverages 40+ years of Nationwide claims data from millions of pets to provide customized, in-depth information about a pet’s specific health risks. In just a few minutes and a couple of clicks, pet parents will receive age- and breed-specific insights, fun facts, and expert advice on how to best care for their pets.  

“While each pet is unique, they also share some health issues with others based on ancestry and age. In the hands of pet families, that information can help keep pets healthier and happier,” says Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. “By relying on data-driven insights available only from Nationwide, we can help to inform pet parents about the likelihood of health issues for that pet and prompt important conversations with their veterinary healthcare teams.”  

Nationwide’s team of veterinarians, breed experts, and data analysts developed the Pet HealthZone, which means pet parents can feel confident relying on a wealth of data-driven knowledge to support their pets' wellbeing. 

Nationwide’s customized pet health insights eliminate the need for pet parents to rely on dubious internet searches or social media posts. They can work to protect their pets – and their pocketbooks – with information on health conditions that are at higher risk for each individual animal. Pet parents can learn what symptoms to watch for and make more informed decisions about their pet’s health and care. 

“What if the owners of every Labrador Retriever puppy knew that their pup was at a significantly higher risk of foreign body ingestion than other dogs?” said Dr. Benson. “It might prompt more proactive preventive measures at home and more conversations with veterinary teams about signs to watch for.” 

“Knowledge is power. Through the Pet HealthZone, Nationwide can share our knowledge to protect more pets and advance pet care in the process,” said Dr. Emily Tincher, Nationwide’s Senior Director of Pet Health. “When pet families are able to make better healthcare decisions, they can worry less and enjoy the bond they share with their pets more.”  

To experience the future of pet health, visit ThePetHealthZone.com. 

For more information on Nationwide’s full range of pet insurance plans and benefits, visit petinsurance.com. 

By entering a pet’s name, breed, and age, the Pet HealthZone will provide customized, in-depth information about an individual pet’s health risks, drawn from analysis of claims data from millions of pets. The Pet HealthZone puts a team of Nationwide veterinarians, breed experts, and data analysts at the fingertips of pet parents, giving them immediate access to age- and breed-specific insights, fun facts, and expert advice.  

“As veterinary professionals, we know there’s a lot of pet health information out there. However, pet families coming to us with the results of internet searches or what they’ve seen on social media may not always set us up for the most productive conversations,” says Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. “Imagine, instead, them being able to leverage data from millions of pets from veterinary clinics across the country. Clients can come into the exam room with accurate information about their pets’ specific health risks and look to you for help in catching and treating those health issues early.” 

The Nationwide Pet HealthZone will, for example, inform pet parents of Labrador Retriever puppies that they are 6.5x more likely to have a foreign body ingestion compared to all other dogs. Similarly, pet parents of young adult life stage American Cocker Spaniels will learn that their dog is 16x more likely to have cherry eye compared to all other dogs. 

This data-informed knowledge opens the door to organic, in-practice conversations on at-home monitoring, helping pet parents spot early signs of illness and get timely veterinary care. When clients know what’s likely for each pet, each breed, and each life stage, veterinary healthcare teams have a better chance to help with interventions and treatments that provide the best outcomes. 

The Pet HealthZone supports the efforts of veterinary healthcare teams by:  

• Improving pet health outcomes: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. By enabling the right conversations at the right time, the Pet HealthZone can help clients and veterinary healthcare teams take tangible steps to prevent diseases, slow their progression, or be prepared for tough conversations down the road.
• Increasing the effectiveness of veterinary healthcare teams: By equipping pet families with a more comprehensive understanding of their pet’s health and taking some of the heavy lifting out of client education, the Pet HealthZone allows team members to focus on the most important conversations around prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.  
• Making pet health data meaningful and actionable: Nationwide knows that data will play a key role in the evolution of the pet health industry, and creating accessible, easy-to-use tools like the Pet HealthZone is critical in developing fields like evidence-based care and veterinary informatics.  

Nationwide is working to elevate pet care and strengthen the human-animal bond. For more information, visit ThePetHealthZone.com and experience the future of pet health.  

About Nationwide pet insurance  
With more than 1.2 million insured pets, Nationwide is the first and largest provider of pet health insurance in the United States. Nationwide pet health insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH; National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH. Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Pet owners can find Nationwide pet insurance on Facebook or follow on Twitter. For more information about Nationwide pet insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit PetInsurance.com. 

Nationwide hosted a public vote June 5-9 to decide the most creative names among the pet insurance leader’s recently enrolled pets. For the first time, the Wacky Pet Names celebration spanned species beyond dogs and cats to include an exotic pets category.

“This annual recognition is an occasion to appreciate the ingenuity and imagination of pet parents,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. “Each name - wacky or not - among our more than 1.2 million insured pets signifies something special and shows thoughtfulness about a pet’s place within a family.”

To commemorate their honors, the families of Doc Pawlliday, Prison Mike and Piggy Smalls will each receive a professional at-home photo shoot with their pet and a $100 gift card.

Below are links to personal profiles of the top vote getters and all other nominees:

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian or exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com.

Each year, Nationwide^® hosts a public vote to decide the most imaginative names among the pet insurance leader’s recently enrolled pets. This year’s Wacky Pet Names celebration spans species beyond dogs and cats to include avian and exotic animals with rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, a bird, a tortoise, and a pot-bellied pig represented among this year’s honorees.  

Voting is open June 5-9, 2023 at petinsurance.com/wackypetnames. The wackiest names in each category will be announced on Tuesday, June 13, 2023. Below are the nominees with their home states and links to their personal profiles:  

Tips for choosing a pet’s name  
Taking into account the science behind how pets hear and respond to different sounds, keep these naming tips in mind.   

• Use hard consonants and vowels. These are easier for pets to hear and respond to.
• Consider a nickname for any names longer than one or two syllables.
• Avoid names that sound like commands. Subtle differences in sounds confuse pets.
• Test it out first to make sure you’re comfortable saying the name loudly in public. 

To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats and many avian or exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com. 

“When we talk about protecting pets from the unexpected, many families might envision things like traumatic injuries, poisoning, or foreign body ingestion,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Nationwide’s Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer. “While these are definitely situations where it’s beneficial to have pet health insurance, our data actually shows that the majority of claims come from extremely common conditions.”

In 2022, Nationwide pet health insurance members filed more than 1.43 million claims for treatment related to the top 10 most common medical conditions affecting dogs and cats. The nation’s pet health protection leader analyzed its database of more than 1.2 million pets to determine the top medical conditions that prompted veterinary visits for dogs and cats last year:

“Year over year, we see that ear infections, urinary and gastrointestinal disease, and skin allergies account for huge portions of the claims Nationwide receives for cats and dogs,” says Dr. Benson. “And are all conditions that can start out small but become serious, even lifelong, if left untreated. Having a pet protection solution in place can make a big difference in whether pet parents seek veterinary care early, and then in what diagnostics and treatments are viable for them.”

Among Nationwide-insured dogs:

• For the 11th year in a row, skin allergies were the most common health issue, with more than 373,000 individual claims received (up from 335,000 in 2021).
• For a single dog, the highest cost with a skin allergy diagnosis came in at just over $9,480 for a dog from New York who receives several daily, weekly, and monthly treatments to keep his allergies at bay. He also has dermatology recheck exams every 14 to 30 days, in addition to medications and treatments for skin fold irritation and secondary skin infections.

Among Nationwide-insured cats:

• Chronic kidney disease reclaimed the top spot as the most common medical condition, with more than 18,400 individual claims received.
• For a single cat, the highest cost from any of the top 10 conditions came in at more than $19,821 for a Georgia cat who suffered a severe diabetic episode. He was so sick that he ended up being admitted to an overnight veterinary emergency center, then was transferred to a 24-hour specialty center to see a board-certified veterinary internist. That team was able to stabilize him and get him back on his feet. He’s now receiving insulin to manage his diabetes and is doing well at home.

With Nationwide pet health insurance, many veterinary expenses associated with the diagnosis and treatment of these common conditions are eligible for reimbursement based on the member’s chosen coverage. To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats, and many avian or exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com.

“When we talk about protecting pets from the unexpected, many families might envision things like traumatic injuries, poisoning, or foreign body ingestion,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Nationwide’s Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer. “While these are definitely situations where it’s beneficial to have pet health insurance, our data actually shows that the majority of claims come from extremely common conditions.”

In 2022, Nationwide pet health insurance members filed more than 1.43 million claims for treatment related to the top 10 most common medical conditions affecting dogs and cats. The nation’s pet health protection leader analyzed its database of more than 1.2 million pets to determine the top medical conditions that prompted veterinary visits for dogs and cats last year:

“Year over year, we see that ear infections, urinary and gastrointestinal disease, and skin allergies account for huge portions of the claims Nationwide receives for cats and dogs,” says Dr. Benson. “And as clinicians know, all are conditions that can start out small but become serious, even chronic, if left untreated. Having a pet protection solution in place can make a big difference in whether pet parents seek veterinary care early, and then in what diagnostics and treatments are viable for them.”

Among Nationwide-insured dogs:

• For the 11th year in a row, skin allergies were the most common health issue, with more than 373,000 individual claims received (up from 335,000 in 2021).
• For a single dog, the highest cost with a skin allergy diagnosis came in at just over $9,480, from a dog in New York who has multiple chronic conditions. He receives monthly Cytopoint injections, in addition to daily oral Atopica and weekly at-home allergen injections.

Among Nationwide-insured cats:

• Chronic kidney disease reclaimed the top spot as the most common medical condition, with more than 18,400 individual claims received.
• For a single cat, the highest cost from any of the top 10 conditions came in at more than $19,821 for a cat from Georgia who suffered a severe diabetic episode. He was admitted to a veterinary emergency center but declined so quickly that he was transferred to a 24-hour specialty center under the care of a board-certified veterinary internist. This team were able to stabilize him and get him back on his feet. He’s now receiving insulin to manage his diabetes and is doing well at home.

With Nationwide pet health insurance, many veterinary expenses associated with the diagnosis and treatment of these common conditions are eligible for reimbursement based on the member’s chosen coverage. To explore pet health insurance coverage for dogs, cats, and many avian or exotic pets, visit petinsurance.com.

About Nationwide pet insurance
With more than 1.2 million insured pets, Nationwide is the first and largest provider of pet health insurance in the United States. Nationwide pet health insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH; National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH. Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Pet owners can find Nationwide pet insurance on Facebook or follow on Twitter. For more information about Nationwide pet insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit petinsurance.com.

This offering builds upon an existing collaboration between the largest pet insurer in the U.S. and the nation’s largest retailer that began with the launch of Nationwide Pet Rx Express^SM at 4,700 Walmart pharmacies in January 2021. The first-of-its-kind program that gives Nationwide pet insurance members preferred pricing on pet prescriptions and an expedited claims filing experience was expanded in May 2021 to include 566 pharmacies at Sam’s Club, a division of Walmart Inc.

“The expansion of our collaboration with Walmart gives us another way to meet millions of pet families where they are – shopping on Walmart.com,” said Nationwide pet insurance President and Chief Pet Officer Heidi Sirota. “Promoting Nationwide’s pet protection solutions within Walmart’s online pet care ecosystem offers a seamless experience for pet parents to learn more about managing costs associated with healthy pet ownership.”   

Visit this page for information about Nationwide’s full range of pet insurance plans and benefits.

But Nationwide’s study of policy and claims information of more than 50,000 of these short-nosed dogs and other similar breeds like them shows they suffer from more than their share of serious illnesses. The “In the Know About Noses: Burrowing Into Brachycephalic Dog Breeds” report analyzed claims data for 15 brachycephalic (bray·kee·seh·fuh·luhk) breeds.

The largest-of-its-kind study not only identifies the serious health issues common in what veterinarians call “brachycephalic” breeds, but also seeks to educate pet families and veterinary healthcare teams on what steps can be taken to keep these dogs as comfortable and healthy as possible. (The tongue-twister term means “short” (brachy-) “head” (-cephaly), and brachycephalic breeds are easily recognized by their distinctive shortened muzzle and skull, underbite, and wide-set eyes.)

“Veterinary healthcare teams see the challenges that these breeds face every day in hospitals across the country,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Nationwide’s Vice President, Pet Health and Chief Veterinary Officer. “Too often, though, people are unprepared for the medical, financial, and emotional toll that diseases common to these beloved dogs can cause. Our latest study aims to arm pet families and veterinary providers with more knowledge on these specific breeds, along with the best steps for prevention and intervention.”

The Nationwide study revealed:

• Breathing problems are common: Brachycephalic dogs are prone to specific respiratory diseases collectively known as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). The risk of brachycephalic dogs submitting a claim for any breathing problem, including BOAS, was almost three times higher than for non-brachycephalic dogs.
• “Extreme” dogs are at greater risk: French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, and Pugs, known as the three “extreme brachycephalic breeds,” have dramatically higher percentage of claims for BOAS, even as compared to other brachycephalic breeds. The French Bulldog is more than 17 times more likely to have a claim submitted for BOAS, the English Bulldog nearly 12 times more likely, and the Pug almost 10 times more likely.
• BOAS contributes to additional problems: BOAS in extreme brachycephalic dogs is linked to a dramatically higher risk of many other serious health concerns, including pneumonia, spinal disease, and diseases of the digestive system.
• Additional concerns identified: Brachycephalic dogs are also at higher risk for eye conditions, hyperthermia (overheating), allergic reactions, complications of pregnancy, and neurologic disease.

“Millions of brachycephalic dogs have snuffled their way into the homes and hearts of pet families across the country,” says Dr. Benson, who is also lead author of the study. “Our goal is to contribute to the body of knowledge that helps them enjoy the healthiest and happiest lives possible.”

Top 3 Tips for Pet Parents of Brachycephalic Dogs

1. Keep them trim. Data shows that in French Bulldogs and other short-nosed breeds, extra weight can lead to breathing problems, back problems, and digestive issues, or a combination of those. Working with your veterinarian to help your dog maintain a healthy weight, while getting the nutrients they need, can help them avoid obesity-related issues.

2. Know their limits. Learn as much as you can about their unique health needs. For example, because of their shorter snouts, brachycephalic dogs can overheat more quickly than other breeds, so keep them cool and avoid strenuous exercise. Using a harness instead of a collar avoids putting pressure on their airway. They’re also more prone to respiratory diseases like pneumonia, so it’s important to know when snoring, snorting, and gagging are not cute little quirks – they could mean your dog is having trouble breathing and may need veterinary attention.

3. Develop a bond with your veterinarian. Your dog’s doctor can truly be your best friend when it comes to keeping your brachycephalic dog healthy. Regular exams and open conversations about your dog’s unique needs can go a long way toward early detection of any health problems. Plus, your veterinarian can give you tips and advice on how to take the best possible care of your furry family member.

To read Nationwide’s complete findings on brachycephalic dogs, visit www.PetInsurance.com/petdata. 

With Nationwide pet health insurance, many veterinary expenses associated with brachycephalic treatments are eligible for reimbursement based on the member’s chosen coverage. To explore pet health insurance coverage for any kind of dog, cat, and many avian or exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.com.

The Nationwide Pet Health Analytics and Insights Team analyzed data from more than 50,000 brachycephalic dogs and more than 450,000 dog years of canine claims from their database of dogs protected by Nationwide pet insurance. The analysis reveals insights into diseases representing increased risks for brachycephalic dogs and “extreme” brachycephalic dogs (French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, and Pugs) and recommends clinical action to improve the care provided for these pets.

“While veterinary researchers have investigated many of these conditions, most were single-site evaluations, often including groups of fewer than 100 dogs,” says Nationwide Chief Veterinary Officer Jules Benson, BVSc, MRCVS. “To our knowledge, this analysis represents the largest single-study cohort of brachycephalic dogs ever conducted. The sheer volume of claims our team at Nationwide was able to analyze provides a major advantage in identifying health risks.”

Key takeaways included:

• Brachycephalic dogs are among the most popular: The two-part analysis included 15 purebred brachycephalic dog breeds that met the inclusion criteria for the study. Three breeds (Pugs, French Bulldogs, and English Bulldogs) met the criterion for extreme brachycephalic breeds. Those three breeds were ranked 3rd, 7th, and 16th in the overall Nationwide purebred population, and 1st, 3rd, and 5th among brachycephalic dog breeds.

• Breathing problems abound: The risk of brachycephalic dogs submitting a claim for any breathing problem, including brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), was almost three times higher than for non-brachycephalic dogs.
• “Extreme” dogs are at increased risk: French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, and Pugs have a dramatically higher risk of having claims for BOAS, even compared with other brachycephalic breeds. The French Bulldog is more than 17 times more likely to have a claim submitted for BOAS, the English Bulldog nearly 12 times more likely, and the Pug almost 10 times more likely. 
• BOAS contributes to additional problems: According to Nationwide data, a BOAS diagnosis may be considered an effective sentinel disease for other conditions (e.g., pneumonia, spinal disease, esophageal and gastrointestinal disease) that are exacerbated by extreme brachycephalic morphology.

“The goal of our brachycephalic research is to provide veterinary healthcare teams and pet-owning families with objective, data-informed personalized pet health guidance,” says Dr. Benson. “Our results highlight the need for careful counseling of brachycephalic dog owners, especially those with extreme conformations. We aim to facilitate close collaboration, early disease recognition, appropriate interventions, and better health outcomes for pets. As part of that effort, Nationwide is creating communication tools to help clinics start those conversations with owners and build those protocols, which we plan to release later this year.”

To read more about Nationwide’s findings on brachycephalic breeds compared to non-brachy breeds, as well as additional risks facing extreme brachycephalic dogs, visit www.PetInsurance.com/petdata. 

With Nationwide pet health insurance, many veterinary expenses associated with brachycephalic treatments are eligible for reimbursement based on the member’s chosen coverage. To explore pet health insurance coverage for any kind of dog, cat, and many avian or exotic pets, visit PetInsurance.com.

“A spectrum of care approach combines evidence-based medicine with pet family emotional, physical, and financial resources, then communicates a range of options to pet families without judgment,” says Dr. Emily M. Tincher, Nationwide Senior Director of Veterinary Relations. “As a practicing veterinarian, I have seen the positive effect that a spectrum of care approach can have. The pet parent feels supported and understood, the veterinary healthcare team feels confident in providing evidence-based solutions, and the pet gets beneficial treatment. It’s a win for everyone involved.” 

Nationwide’s spectrum of care programs now include:  

• A New Website: Spectrum-of-care.com defines and illustrates the spectrum of care approach to veterinary medicine. Throughout the year, the site will expand to include communication tools and resources for veterinary healthcare teams to encourage dialogue internally and with pet families.   
• A New Scholarship: In 2022, the first $25,000 Nationwide Spectrum of Care Scholarship was awarded to Keith Gilchrist, a fourth-year student at Ohio State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. The annual transformational scholarship is open to OSU students who are enrolled in the college’s Spectrum of Care career area of emphasis and demonstrate an interest in the spectrum of care through personal experiences.  
• Veterinary Student Education: In spring 2023, Nationwide will continue for the third semester as the only organization providing spectrum of care education in every U.S. veterinary school. In 2022, the curriculum for Nationwide’s veterinary student education program, delivered in partnership with the Veterinary Business Management Association (VMBA), focused on communication skills that help students meet pet families where they are regarding goals and resources.  
• Thought Leadership at Veterinary Conferences: Dr. Tincher and Dr. Jules Benson, Nationwide’s Chief Veterinary Officer, will continue presenting sessions on spectrum of care topics – including novel communications research completed in partnership with Mind Genomics Advisors – at major industry conferences throughout the year, including at Veterinary Meeting and Expo (VMX) in Orlando and the Western Veterinary Conference (WVC) Annual Conference in Las Vegas. They will be building on the spectrum of care foundational presentations they gave at national conferences throughout 2022.  

“So many pets don’t get the care they need, most often because veterinary care isn’t attainable to their families. A spectrum of care approach gives pet parents options and ways to say ‘yes’ to treatment for the comfort and wellbeing of their beloved companions,” said Heidi Sirota, President and Chief Pet Officer. “Nationwide is committed – through these resources for care providers created from millions of pet medical claims, partnerships across the pet industry, and innovative protection solutions – to removing barriers to care so every family can bring a pet into their homes for its full life.”

Nationwide’s efforts to elevate spectrum of care conversations go hand-in-hand with its history of offering a spectrum of pet protection solutions. Nationwide pet health insurance allows pet owners to select the level of coverage that meets their needs and their resources, enabling more care for more pets. To learn more, visit spectrum-of-care.com. 

Adopt a Pet helps more than 19,000 animal shelters, humane societies, SPCAs, pet rescue groups, and pet adoption agencies showcase around 240,000 adoptable pets at any given time to adoptapet.com’s 3.5 million visitors each month. The partnership designates Nationwide as Adopt a Pet’s exclusive pet insurance carrier and provides the opportunity to promote its pet protection solutions within the Adopt a Pet ecosystem of animal welfare organizations.

“Adopting a pet is a special experience and we’re thrilled that this partnership makes Nationwide part of that journey, starting from ‘Gotcha Day,’” said Nationwide pet insurance President and Chief Pet Officer Heidi Sirota. “Our goal is to educate adopters on healthy pet ownership and show how insurance can make it possible for families to always say ‘yes’ to needed, yet often expensive and unexpected medical care.”

The collaboration also presents an opportunity for Nationwide to provide informative content to shelters and adopters. By leveraging its vast trove of policy and claims data, Nationwide’s veterinary analytics team will deliver personalized pet health insights based on breed, age and other factors. This information is meant to support shelter staff and inform potential adopters as they consider what pet best fits their family.

Another benefit to pet parents is the combination of insights from Nationwide with Adopt a Pet’s Rehome service, which onboards more than 20,000 pets per month. Rehome allows pet parents who can no longer keep their pets the opportunity to list them for adoption directly on Adopt a Pet. Peer-to-peer adoption provides adopters with more information about a pet’s history than they would typically receive in a shelter or rescue. Nationwide’s educational resources may also give pet parents listing on Rehome the tools they need to keep their pets.  

“Helping potential pet parents is at the core of what Adopt a Pet stands for, and while we’re known for helping adopters find their best match, we see this partnership as an opportunity to really guide them into becoming great pet parents,” said Jeannine Taaffe, Chief Executive Officer at Adopt a Pet. “Collaborating with Nationwide allows us to provide people with more education and make them feel confident that they’re giving their pets the best protection possible.”

For information about Nationwide’s full range of pet insurance plans and benefits, visit petinsurance.com/adoptapet.