My dog is lethargic, shedding, and pale. How can I afford vet care?

Question

My German Shepard Mix has the following symptoms: lethargic, reduced appetite, excessive shedding, pale gums, hestitatant to jump and has had ear mite infection recently. I am a victim of domestic violence and had to start over about 6 months ago. So I am extremely limited financially right now and have no real resources. I love my dog and want to do the best I can to care for him. Please advise.

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

I am so sorry you have been through so much lately, and I want you to know you are amazing for getting out of such a difficult situation and starting over. I can't imagine that it was easy at all, and you should be proud of yourself for doing it! As for your dog, I have to say his symptoms are concerning and could be caused by a couple of things. The lethargy, reduced appetite, and pale gums could be due to anemia. Anemia occurs when there is a loss or destruction of a large amount of red blood cells, which can be caused by internal or external bleeding. The excessive shedding could be caused by fleas, mites, or allergies. A heavy flea infestation could also cause anemia. Hesitancy to jump could be caused by hip, joint, or spinal pain. All of these symptoms do require an immediate vet visit, and I can give you a number of resources that hopefully will help you afford a vet. 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/ God's Creatures Ministry helps pay for veterinarian bills for those who need help.  The Onyx & Breezy Foundation has many programs including helping people with medical bills. They are a good resource for information.  Brown Dog Foundation provides funding to families with a sick pet that would likely respond to treatment, but due to circumstances, there is not enough money immediately available to pay. I hope one of these resources help you afford a vet visit for your dog!

My dog is lethargic, shedding, and pale. How can I afford vet care?

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