More and more communities are practicing social distancing and moving towards shelter in place during the COVID-19 outbreak. Pet parents in those areas may be concerned about getting veterinary care for their pets if their local veterinarian’s office is closed or they can’t leave the house. Nationwide wants to remind our pet insurance members that free veterinary advice is available to them through the VetHelpline^®. This service is exclusive to Nationwide pet insurance members.

“Nationwide understands that the current situation is putting a strain on everyone, especially those who are unable to take their pet family members to visit their veterinarians in person,” said Heidi Sirota, Nationwide’s chief pet officer. “The VetHelpline team of veterinary professionals is standing by to provide their assistance to help our members during these uncertain times.”

Friendly, expert advice is available 24/7 by visiting my.petinsurance.com. There, Nationwide pet insurance members can receive free guidance, from general questions to identifying urgent care needs—because early detection is crucial for preventing small problems from becoming big ones. The VetHelpline staff has expertise across a wide range of pet health issues, including poisoning, parasites, and infectious diseases. All VetHelpline veterinary professionals are based in the U.S. and have years of clinical experience.

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’ve been going on
• 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 and cannot diagnose, treat, or prescribe medications. Nationwide encourages pet parents to consult with their veterinarian when it is appropriate and safe to do so.