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.

“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.  

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.  

"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.