Pet insurance rates are climbing, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Pet insurance can offset some of the expense of going to the veterinarian, but experts say the rising price of veterinary care and more pet owners enrolling in insurance are driving up premiums.

"As inflation impacts everything from medical equipment to staff wages, vet care is affected, too," said Loretta Worters, with the Insurance Information Institute

With advances in veterinary care, veterinarians are now becoming almost as specialized as doctors.

"We're not just an animal doctor. We're surgeons, we're dentists, we have all the same facilities that human doctors have," said Dr. Jason Heller, owner of East Northport Animal Hospital.

"We have seen almost a 300% increase in the cost of veterinary medicine," Heller said.

A little advice from the vet, even though rates are going up, pet insurance may still save you money in the long run if your pet has an emergency, like a broken leg which can cost thousands of dollars in bills without insurance.

"Look into asking your veterinarian as to certain different types of pet insurance and all the different companies to try to compare them," said Heller.

If pet insurance isn't an option, your vet may be able to help you find payment assistance programs.

The Long Island Veterinary Medical Association says colleges with vet programs often offer free clinics for your pet.

Organizations that offer financial assistance for pet care: