wow annual checkup? even I don't get one of those. haha. well it sounds like it's a good thing i've gotten everything done here in the netherlands, as microchip cost me about 80 euro's and desexing 30 euro's !! then again he is male so it's...ehm... easier...

i gotta say i've never hear of pet insurance.. in any of the countries i've lived.. and i have always had pets (dogs mostly).

does your pet really need an anual checkup though? putting aside money like you said you do is the best option i think. that way when something happens you're covered. my dog and cat haven't had a checkup or shots for ehm... 3 years... and they're perfectly healthy. they have gotten they're needed shots at an early age, been chipped and desexed, and i keep track of if the important shots need renewing. i get a reminder every 6 months to update the shots, but that's just money scamming!! if you are really into your pet like it sounds like you are you would know if something is off.