My neighbor's dog is very sick, losing weight fast. What should I do?

Question

Please help! My neighbors dog is very sick. He is a large dog, unsure what breed. He has lost all his weight in days and is bone bone thin. The only thing i know it could be is his paw? His i guess you would say pinky toe is swollen to the size of a small grape and has been larger for months. She is very poor and I dont think she could take him to a vet, is there anything I could give him? Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female

Kevin Sanada, DVM · Accepted Answer

This type of severe weight loss is known as cachexia and is usually associated with a bad disease such as cancer, diabetes or kidney failure. The swollen toe could possibly be a tumor. It sounds like your neighbor needs to take the dog to the vet soon. It would be good to approach your neighbor respectfully and let them know that you are very concerned about the dog. They may have taken him to a vet already and know what's going on. If they don't know what's going on and consider it a normal part of aging, then let them know that a veterinarian told you it could be one of the serious diseases I mentioned. If they still seem hesitant, then you may offer to take her, or offer to take her to a shelter (she would have to sign the surrender forms though). However, if you don't think your neighbor will respond well, you may consider calling Animal Control. That way you can remain anonymous and the officer can find out if there is a neglectful situation going on. I know it may seem harsh to have the dog taken away, but if that happens, then just know it will be the best thing for the dog. I hope that helps and all goes well.

My neighbor's dog is very sick, losing weight fast. What should I do?

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