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My puppy is sick, won't eat, vomiting, diarrhea. Can't afford vet.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 3 months and 12 days old | 5 lbs

My two month old puppy is shaky will not eat has runny poops and is very lethargic. I tried giving her Pedialyte and pepto and she seems a little better but pukes about every third time i give her Pedialyte.... I dont have funds for a vet but i cant lose my baby..

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on April 8th, 2017

I'm sorry to hear that Gizmo is so sick! Unfortunately, these symptoms are very worrying. Lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea are often caused by a serious illness such as parvo, and can be life-threatening in a puppy this age. I know that costs are a concern for you, but Gizmo really needs to see a vet right away - I would be worried that she may not survive without veterinary care. This doesn't necessarily need to be an expensive visit; if you let the vet know that you have financial constraints, they can often come up with a fairly inexpensive plan for supportive care (including IV fluids and injectable meds for you to give at home) that will give her a fighting chance even with a serious illness like this. You could also see if there is a low-cost SPCA clinic in your area that could help, or apply online for Care Credit, which is a payment plan accepted by most vet clinics: www.carecredit.com If going to the vet is not possible at all, then I would just try to keep her warm and comfortable and do the best you can to keep her hydrated. You can continue giving Pedialyte if she's able to keep it down, and you might also try offering her some warmed low-sodium chicken or beef broth to help encourage her to drink. Plain boiled chicken or chicken-flavored baby food can also be offered if she's interested in eating at all, as these are very bland and should not upset her stomach further.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 10th, 2020

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m sorry to hear Mocha isn’t feeling well. I understand you have cost concerns but Mocha needs to see a vet as soon as possible. She could be having a reaction to the vaccine you gave, she could have other parasites you didn’t deworm for, or she could have parvovirus even if her sister isn’t showing signs. I worry that the vomiting and diarrhea is causing dehydration and because she is so young she can’t recover from that on her own. I would call the local shelters to see if they have a financial assistance program. Some vet offices may have one too. Mocha needs medical attention and without knowing what is causing the vomiting and diarrhea it will be difficult to recommend a treatment plan. Once a vet makes a diagnosis they can discuss different and cost effective treatment options. Good luck and kisses to Mocha!

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