(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Last week, Nationwide, the country’s largest provider of pet insurance, announced it was changing or canceling 100,000 policies in a cost-cutting move.
A north suburban family will be paying more to care for their dog as a result.
Laura Blumenau says her cavapoo named Moose needs epidural shots three to four times a year for a bulging disc that makes it painful for him to walk.
“Thankfully so far they've worked and he's been able to walk and he's not in pain on a daily basis like he was before,” Blumenau said.
The Highland Park woman says Nationwide sent a letter telling her when the policy for the 4-year-old dog expires in July, it will drop the amount of vet bills and other expenses it covers from 90% to 50%.
Blumenau estimates over Moose’s lifetime, her family could spend another $60,000 to $70,000 on the shots, specialty vet visits, physical therapy and more.
“He is part of the family. I would do whatever it takes, but it's not only just the epidurals that can cost, you know, upward of $1500 to $2000 every time he goes.”
Another suburban dog owner shared with us a letter from Nationwide saying it is canceling her dog’s policy - and other Whole Pet plans - citing inflation and higher interest rates.
She says in the nearly 14 years she’s had her dog named Tofu, she has hardly made any claims to the insurance company.
Blumenau feels stuck since her dog’s spinal issue is now a pre-existing condition, she won’t be able to get coverage for it if she changes companies.
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