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The doghouse

If you're worried about your pet's health, please speak to a vet or qualified professional.

Neighbours dog

10 replies

RottieLover95 · 14/03/2020 20:13

My elderly neighbour is really ill at the moment, so I have offered to walk her dog a couple of times a week to help her out. She told me she can't afford a dog walker, and doesn't have anyone else around to help with the dog and was really grateful for my offer.
I've noticed the dog has red, scabby /scaly patches behind the ears, and the fur behind the ears has fallen out. He also has scabs on his face, and a few on his legs, and what looks like a cut beside his eye. One of his eyes is bright red also. Does this sound like mange? Or could it be something else? I really want to help, but I don't want to offend my neighbour by bringing it up, as I have no idea if she has already spoken to the vets about this. I'm assuming she hasn't because she has been too weak to leave the house for a few months. I want to say something along the lines of 'would you like me to take the dog to the vets about his skin condition for you?' but I don't want to come across as nosy/ interfering. Should I just go ahead and ask or mind my own business?

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Herpesfreesince03 · 14/03/2020 20:18

It could be anything. It needs to see a vet. I don’t know why you’re worrying about offending her if it’s suffering, it sounds pretty horrendous tbh. Ask her if it can see a vet, if not then phone the rspca. What’s the alternative?

AmIAWeed · 14/03/2020 20:19

honestly as a dog owner I think I'd be upset at the question as it would assume I hadn't taken him, perhaps a very subtle rewording of, did you manage to get him to the vets before you got poorly, does he need follow up trips, id be happy to help. not accusitory but still supportive

BiteyShark · 14/03/2020 20:26

I would try and bring it up tactfully but to be blunt if she can't afford a dog walker can she afford vet fees?

Windyatthebeach · 14/03/2020 20:29

Just ask which vet she used and would she like you to take ddog for a check up?
Imo do not be fobbed off...

RottieLover95 · 14/03/2020 20:31

That's what I was thinking @Biteyshark. If I rang RSPCA would they take the dog? Or would they be willing to help with vet fees etc and let her keep him do you know? She would be heart broken if they took him.

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RottieLover95 · 14/03/2020 20:32

Good idea @windyatthebeach, I think I will ask her that next time I see her.

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phenomenalcat · 14/03/2020 20:38

Just say - oh I noticed he has a couple of sore looking patches just here, is it an allergy or something? It's enough to start a conversation without being accusatory.
If you have a local PDSA they will treat animals for free for people on low incomes.

HairyDogsOfThigh · 14/03/2020 20:42

I would say I had noticed the patches and wondered if he needed the vet. Then have a conversation about it, and offer to google if there was any financial help available if the conversation goes that way. PDSA or blue cross might help if she receives benefits.

HairyDogsOfThigh · 14/03/2020 20:43

The other thing is, if it is mange, it can be highly contagious so the dog shouldn't be out mixing with other dogs.

RottieLover95 · 14/03/2020 20:59

Thanks for the advice everyone, I'm going to bring it up next time I see her.

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