Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog is in severe tail pain, can't afford vet. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 8 months old | 15 lbs

My dachshund is scheduled for surgery to have the tip of his tail amputated due to it dying from a lack of blood flow. Well yesterday even with his cone collar on he was able to get the bandage I had around it with some silvadine on it off and proceeded to chew the dead part of his tail off. He's on an antibiotic and Rimadyl for the pain. I'm not financially capable of taking him anywhere tonight but he won't quit whining and shaking from pain, is there anything I can do at home??

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 14th, 2018

Hello. If he is on a twice a day dose of Rimadyl, you can give him the second dose now, but he can not have another dose for another 24 hours. Please make sure you inform Rossi's veterinarian of any medications you give. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Oh no, poor Rossi! Unfortunately no, there is nothing you can do at home for him for the pain. Many human pain medications are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. He really has to see a vet tonight, this will be extremely painful to him. I would see if you can borrow money from family and friends to afford a vet, and I can give you some resources that may help. You can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962 https://www.redrover.org https://www.carecredit.com http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/ http://www.dogheirs.com/resources-affordable-veterinary-care/ I hope one of these resources helps you, please take him into a vet tonight.

    Vote icon

    0Pet 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
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
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my dog or cat shaking? When should I see a veterinarian?
Concerned your pet is shaking? Veterinarian Todd Cecil discusses common causes like hypothermia, metabolic disorders, and seizures. He recommends a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
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