Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Dog vomiting, bloated, won't eat, can't afford vet. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 8 years and 3 months old | 6 lbs

I am trying to find out if there is anything that I can possibly do to reverse symptoms that my dog is having. Two days ago she started vomiting (even water or just bile when she has an empty stomach), she refuses to eat, is losing mobility more everyday, and now her stomach looks extremely bloated. Unfortunately I do not have the monetary means to have her seen, let alone treated. I'm already pretty certain that there is nothing that I could do but any insight would be very much appreciated.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on October 5th, 2017

Unfortunately, there could be many very serious things going on to cause these symptoms in Sophie. Without being able to examine her, I won't be able to tell you any medications that could be used because her symptoms could be caused by several completely different body systems. Common causes of vomiting include dietary indiscretion, food allergy, intestinal parasites, GI blockage, gastroenteritis, bacterial or viral infection, IBD, pancreatitis, etc. A bloated stomach could be caused by fluid building up in the abdomen, a twisted stomach, decreased intestinal movement leading to a build-up of gas, or an infection in her uterus. Several of these are surgical emergencies. Have you looked at options for low-cost vet services in your area or financing such as Care Credit? You can also try contacting the animal shelter or rescue groups in your area for advice. I am afraid that Sophie is very sick and I do not want her to suffer without care. https://www.petcoach.co/article/7-smart-solutions-for-pet-care-financing/

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 26th, 2017

    Bloating is not a good sign in pets usually. This can indicate he is bocked, septic (infection) or has organ malfunction. THere really isn't much you can do for this at home. Hopefully one of the financial resources below can help you get Zues checked out by your vet soon to help stabilize his condition. Until you can get him in you can try offering him small amounts of boiled plain chicken and rice or cottage cheese and small amounts of Pedialyte (non-flavored) diluted with water to help reduce his chances of becoming severely dehydrated from all the vomiting. I hope he feels better soon. Best wishes and take care. http://m.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored