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My dog is in pain. How can I afford vet care for her arthritis?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female | spayed | 9 years old | 8 lbs

Gave my dog who weighs between 8 and 10 lbs 2.5 mg of prednisone, the prescription is old and I can't see if it says to give her 2.5 twice daily for inflamed joint pain and arthritis pain. I did give her a regular dose this morning and it helped but I can tell she is in pain again tonight, don't know if I should give it to her every 12 hours or every 24 hours. The vet we use to go to is no longer there and no other vet will tell me. I don't have the money for a vet visit Help !!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 20th, 2019

Unfortunately it's illegal for me to tell you as well since I can't see Linda in person. Also, I very strongly caution you about giving her old pain meds. They may be expired, but also she is an older dog and she could have a health condition that means taking steroids is not recommended at all. You could accidentally do serious harm. She will need to see a vet to get more pain medications. 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.
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/

Check out these resources to see if one can help you, and please take her into the vet.
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