UC to offer voluntary pet insurance

The unconditional love pets provide their owners is priceless. And if you're one of over 70 million pet owners in the U.S., you know caring for them can be expensive, especially if they are injured or get sick. To help you prepare for the unexpected, UC is introducing a new option for your family – preferred pricing on pet insurance through Nationwide.

You can enroll in pet insurance any time of year, not just during Open Enrollment, and your coverage will be effective the day your application is approved by Nationwide. That means you can enroll beginning Oct. 25 for coverage in 2018, or you can enroll midyear when you welcome a new furry, feathered or scaly family member.

Plans are available for most house pets – dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, even exotic pets such as reptiles.

Animals categorized as livestock (including horses) are ineligible.

Nationwide offers coverage for accidents and illness or more comprehensive coverage that also includes preventive care and wellness services. There is no network – you can use any licensed veterinarian for your pet's care. Premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose, your type of pet and where you live. There are no pet age restrictions but the plans do exclude pre-existing conditions from coverage. You'll pay your premiums directly to Nationwide.

Beginning Oct. 25, learn more and enroll on the Nationwide website at http://petinsurance.com/uc, or call Nationwide at (877) 738-7874.