We self insure. We have a dedicated savings account that is added to monthly, with no exceptions. It is never used for anything other than large vet bills and has served us well. After various surgeries for three bulldogs over the years, we are still ahead of the game! We do not use it for regular check-ups or for shots. We had insurance for our dachshund and after 4 years of premiums that went up every year and only ever claiming once for an ear infection (we got a few $$ back) we cancelled. I am grateful we never had any medical problems with him but seeing as we didn't and haven't and he is now 11, I would rather have all those premiums in my pocket, (or savings account) instead of theirs! I know a few people have had really BIG issues where insurance has been a life saver so it is something to think about and weigh all the pro's and cons.