recommendations? preferably for the ny-metro region

I don't really care for pet insurance. I think it's better to get a credit card ONLY for veterinary emergencies and link it to a savings account that you can put money in, as much as you would spend on the insurance each month... That way you will be saving money (getting interest) and if something happens, you can use that money. If you don't have enough you will have the credit card. You can pay it off AFTER you use it. Instead of paying for something you may or may not use, as well as building your credit! Always a plus

I have both Banfield (through Petsmart) and VPI. VPI does not care which vet you go to. They just pay for a portion of the bill. Banfield (Petsmart) pays for routine stuff like shots and teeth cleaning. They give a small discount on their services. VPI is for unplanned stuff like cancer or car accidents. Banfield is for the routine care. You can have both or just one or the other.

I suppose you have a psychologist for your pet,and and acupuncturist also..you are kidding right ?
Pet insurance ? for what..
unless there is insurable interest in the animal such as a race horse ,or a dog that provides you income in dog shows.
Or you own Lassie...
If you just have a mutt,and want insurance,I can think of a million other ways to throw your money away.