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My Shih Tzu licks, has ear issues. Can't afford vet care. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | 18 lbs

I am a Senior with 3 dogs. One a purebred Shih Tzu who I brought into my hse 3yrs ago and he’s done nothing but lick, chewed or rubbed hair off his paws, back and rump. And just lately he’s holding his head to the left side which I’m thinking is an ear problem. His Vet (Mayfield) won’t allow monthly payments so I’m looking into giving him up but don’t know how to start. He such a sweetie but I can’t have him suffer like this. Thank you Another is Shih Tzu Yorker she chews her tail it’s bad too

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on September 2nd, 2018

I am sorry your pets aren't doing well. This is a common area to scratch with flea or food allergies. It is a good idea to have all of the dogs on a good quality monthly flea preventative. Some dogs will also require a special diet and maybe even special medications, like Apoquel, for continued itching. It will be hard to rehome a dog with an undiagnosed medical issue. You may start by talking with your vet about rescue groups or no-kill shelters in your area that could help with finding a new home for Gizmo. If paying for a vet is an issue, you can see 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/.../trouble_affording_pet... https://www.redrover.org https://www.carecredit.com http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant.../ http://www.dogheirs.com/resources-affordable-veterinary.../

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