u/Stars_platinumBalls

My childhood dog of 10 years has been transfered to me as he was unhappy when I started college. He has always received yearly vet care but with new extra charges like senior bloodwork, and close monitoring of some minor stuff he has going on, should I consider getting pet insurance? I was always lead to believe it was kind of a scam, as they only reimburse and you still have to have the funds to pay on site before issuing a claim.

Most people I know say they just have a savings account for emergencies, but as a college student I don't really have that. I can afford routine care easily but the thought of emergencies scare me. My parents are not the type to "believe in vet care" even though they love him. Are there any pet insurance companies who won't charge out the ass for a senior and actually covers costs, not just reimbursement? He also has a new kitten sister, so would likely be including her as well.

He's 10, already lost a good few lbs and according to vet has only 2lbs to go. He is a 22lbs Chihuahua/Schnauzer/Pomeranian. Was doing well on PPP senior weight management but kept getting bugs in the freshly-opened bags. Got him onto Nulo small-breed Salmon and he was doing good, but then got super itchy. Tried Honest Kitchen and he had a worse allergic reaction, hot spots everywhere. I want to try Hills or Royal Canin but they're sooo expensive. Bloodwork has been good, but slightly elevated liver values which vet said we will just monitor. What else could I try?

Obviously we want low-fat, low-calorie. Doesn't have to be senior cause he gets Cosequin chews and Welactin Omega 3s. He's moderately active. Not picky, but I find he doesn't do well with high oat content. He did perfect on Victor Hi-Pro Plus for many years, I only took him off that to get his weight down.