Does it cover all vet fees or just large operations?

It varies.  There are some insurances that will pay for most things.  Most insurances cover most things but you pay an excess.  For me I have to pay the first £40 of any treatment so in effect I have ended up paying for everything so far.

Most pet insurance will cover anything above the excess (usually about £45), as long as it is not routine vaccination or neutering, or any cost associated with breeding.

So, they won't cover your annual boosters or neutering your dog, but anything accidental, any illness or injury, should be covered from £45 upwards.

There is one pet insurance on the market (Marks and Spencer's) which has NO excess, so scrap that £45, they will cover any fee spent at the vet's as long as not vaccination, neutering or breeding related.

You will have to pay for vaccinations, worming and flea prevention treatments.  In fact, a lot of pet insurance will be invalid if you do not do this!  However, if you've already organised your puppies vaccinations and worming, this shouldn't be a problem for you.

I would suggest that you seek out the PDSA clinic nearest to you (think you're in Reading, aren't you?)   Because of your low/student income, you may be eligible for PDSA clinic treatments.

Regards Margot