Expert: Patti - 11/6/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have an 11yr old Brittany and he is losing weight to the point of counting ribs and seeing his back bone and hip bones,  He eats well but has numerous bowel movements that are normal, any ideas ?

ANSWER:
Hi Sharon,

As a matter of fact, I do an an idea! How about having your dog examined by a veterinarian?

Nobody online can diagnose your dog for you. Significant weight loss is a serious problem. You've put off getting your dog the care he needs long enough, now it's time for treatment.

If you are having trouble affording veterinary care, first talk to your regular vet. Ask your veterinarian if he or she will let you work out a payment plan. Many veterinarians are willing to work out a weekly or monthly payment plan so that you do not have to pay the entire cost of veterinary care up front. If that doesn't work, contact your local shelter or Humane Society. Some shelters operate or know of local subsidized veterinary clinics or veterinary assistance programs. You could also check with veterinary schools in your state to see if they offer discount services to the public. When all else fails, you can apply for a special credit card that can be used for medical bills, including veterinary care. Read about this here:

Care Credit:  www.carecredit.com

Citi Healthcard:  www.healthcard.citicards.com

Best of luck,
Patti


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Has been seen by a vet and had blood tests done all negative, you are a snippy person and I will never use this website again, how unprofessional you are

Answer

Hello again,

I have no idea if you've ever taken your dog to the vet or not, you didn't say, and I'm not a mind reader. Believe it or not, I get an awful lot of messages from people who do not get medical attention for their dogs when it's needed.

What tests were run, and how long ago?  If you want answers you need to give more information.

-Patti