Poorly dog - no money.

[BadSeedsAddict]

I have a whippet cross that started losing weight a couple of weeks ago. I separated from my ex last year and am not yet working. The dog was adopted from another family who could no longer look after him. I had intended to get him registered with the PDSA, but stupidly didn't get round to it. He has had antibiotics and worming medicine on the back of his neck (as he threw up his tablet along with all the food I'd managed to get down him ). The next thing will be X-rays and possibly an operation if he has an obstruction. He's eating ok (if little) but his stools are black (internal bleeding) and he keeps messing in the house. I don't really know what I'm meant to do. I've already set up monthly payments for the treatment he has had and I can't borrow any money as I may not be able to pay it back. It was foolish to take him on in the first place but at the time it was fine to do so. Just wondering if anyone has any experience of anything like this. I have contacted the PDSA but they say they can't help.

Blue Cross ?

If you cannot fund his healthcare, and are not eligible for assistance, then please think seriously about whether you should have him. It's simply not fair on him. There are several rescues that specialise in whippets and sighthounds who you could relinquish him to - they are highly reputable and would make sure he gets the vet treatment he needs along with a comfortable, experienced foster home until his health can be stabilised and he can be adopted to a thoroughly checked permanent home. The rescue will continue to provide lifelong backup.

Rescues you could try include Scruples Whippet Rescue, Hounds First Sighthound Rescue, and Evesham Greyhound and Lurcher Rescue. All of these have access to volunteer networks who will transport a relinquished dog to a place of safety/new foster home.

Scuttle - thank you. I have been considering whether that would be the best option for him, but was torn between feeling guilty for shunting him on him for the third time, and wanting to do what is best for him. The vet has now offered to treat him for various possibilities, and I can pay monthly, which is a relief. If it is an ongoing problem or needs treatment outside of what I can afford without going into debt then I'll look into the rescue places you mentioned. Thank you.

What about a whippet rescue, like scruples? I am grasping at straws, but maybe they can help, or point you in the direction of someone who can.

That's excellent news, Bad. Hoping the news is equally good for your little whippy boy. Wishing you all the best for the treatment.

Scuttlebutt gives excellent advice and I hope your dog us okay too x
Will you be able to register with a low income scheme after this? Would that help?

If you're on housing benefit you're eligible for PDSA service though it may depend on whether you're within the catchment
m.pdsa.org.uk/pdsa-vet-care/eligibility

Thank you all well he is much better, although still needs to put on weight; but the medicines the vet has given him seem to have worked and he is much more lively and energetic! It cost less for the medication than I thought, and they are letting me pay it off with monthly payments. I will look into payment plans - the vet I use now has one but I've heard there are cheaper places locally. And once he's better I'll apply for a PDSA place in case of future problems. Hopefully I'll get work soon anyway

I am glad to hear he is improving :)