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My dog has tartar, but I can't afford a vet. What are my options?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Male | neutered | 11 years and 8 months old | 8 lbs

My dog has tartar is there any way to help get rid of it without going to vet as I do not have the money to go to the vet. I have been brushing his teeth

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 5th, 2020

Honestly the only way to get it away completely is with the vet and a dental cleaning. If paying for a vet is an issue, 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. You can also see if you can borrow money from family and friends to afford the vet. 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/

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