I would say pet insurance is like preventative maintenance for termites….you just dont know.....
I have had 4 cats and 3 basenjis....one cat swallowed thread and cost around $400....that was it and they are all well over 7-8 years old.
Caesar is 6 and never had anything but this recent bladder infection. Beta was completely healthy until the month of doom which hit me with about $7k in bills.
I have always liked Banfields Wellness program for the kids when they were pups and kittens. All shots, fixing, and meds covered under a payment plan that is about 20 bucks a month. THere are warranties on the vaccines etc. I great way to get a better price for the puppy years.
People ask me if I will get pet insurance now that Beta has passed and those bills were so large. I havent yet, and dont know if I will. To me, this is what credit cards are for, emergencies....I called my CC co and they increased my limit and everything. THe vet also had a company that would give credit with a low interest rate to promote health over death due to finances.
If your can handle the price, insurance is great. Not the way I am going, but it does add a level of comfort I suppose.
I think that when your basenji is sick, education is your best asset.