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My dog has swollen breasts. Can I delay vet care due to cost?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boston Terrier | Female | unspayed | 10 years and 2 months old | 12 lbs

I have a 10 tear old Boston Terrier and I have noticed as significant amount of swelling and bruising on two of her breasts. I don't have enough money right now to take her to the vet, but I'm getting paid in 11 days. Is it something I can wait that long for?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 9th, 2018

I see that Button isn't spayed, and I'm concerned that this swelling is caused by mammary tumors, which can be common in unspayed females. This is something that is better checked out sooner rather than later, as 50% of mammary tumors are malignant. I would see if you can borrow money from family and friends to afford the vet now, 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/ Hopefully one of these resources helps you, please take her into a vet. Best of luck.

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