Dear Cheapskate: I have a dog and two cats. Between routine health check-ups, inoculations and occasional mishaps and illnesses, my vet bills can be quite significant. Can you tell me anything about affordable pet health insurance? -- Beth E., Montana
Dear Beth: I’m afraid that pet insurance might give you peace of mind, but it is not likely to save you any money. My friend and colleague, the late Dr. David T. Roen, board-certified veterinarian and owner of the Clarkston Veterinary Clinic in Clarkston, Washington, was adamant with his customers that pet insurance is a gamble and the odds are stacked against you. By time you factor in annual premiums, deductibles and typical policy exclusions, it is possible you could be out money in the end. You’d probably be better off to set up your own savings account for pet health care and make premium payments to yourself. If your animals remain healthy, you can keep the nest egg. If not, you have the account to cover the bills.
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