Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My dog has painful rotten teeth. What if I can't afford vet help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed

Ho my friends dog is suffering with very rotten teeth. The teeth are wobbly and black and the gums are swollen red and black. She cannot afford to have them taken out but the dog is in so much pain. What can I do

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 27th, 2019

This is very sad, The teeth need to be removed by a vet. There are no over the counter pain medications we can recommend. Those medications are not very safe. If the dog is in that much pain it needs to see a vet. Even if your friend cannot afford the dental cleaning, usually pain medications are not that expensive. I, personally, would be more worried about the infection that is present in the mouth than the pain.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Your friend can try this antiseptic gel to use in her dog's mouth until she can get her to a vet. This does not replace a vet exam. ( https://www.amazon.ca/Zymox-018PKBOVAG1-Oratene-Veterinarian-Antiseptic/dp/B00CB0LU0G/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=oratene+gel&qid=1572186339&sr=8-6 )

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored