I'm no expert but will say I backed out of buying insurance because of the process you have to go through when filing a claim. I'm lazy in a lot of ways and I find it easier to just pay. My advice though and it is common sense ...do your research. If you have a vet you trust they'll offer options, most do. Inquire from their staff what they like or dislike about those companies and decide from there. Be aware, not all diseases, operations, etc are covered, so know exactly what you are getting for your $$. I do know some who've had success and saved a lot because of insurance, but I'm sorry I don't know what companies they've used. Some home and car insurers offer pet insurance so if you like your's you could also inquire there. Hope this helps some. For anyone who decides to get a pet, I'd say have a nest egg, because you just never know what can happen and as someone who's spent thousands and thousands on my dogs in the past couple of years, I'll attest, dogs can be very expensive, but certainly worth every penny. i'm not one who believes that you should euthanize an animal because you can't afford it's care... think before you buy, pets are a privilege not a right. Best of luck.