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My dog's leg hurts, and I can't afford vet care. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 9 years old | 25 lbs

So I just inquired about my dog's achy leg and I didn't even think to mention that my family cannot afford vet care. I'm not sure what to do because she might be in a lot of pain and I can't take her to the vet. Is there anything I can do to help her at home, like a warm compress or anything?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 20th, 2018

I answered your previous question about Pepper, and while you can try a warm compress on her leg to see if that helps, she really does have to see a vet. It's quite serious she won't put any weight on it, and it needs to be checked out as soon as possible. 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/ Check out these resources to see if those help you afford a vet, and please make her an appointment with one first thing in the morning. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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