My dog coughs and wheezes in sleep. What's wrong and how to help?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on December 9th, 2019

  That is worth having Leo seen by a vet, as limping means he is in pain. I'm concerned about his level of pain if he won't even get up. At the very least, the vet can prescribe pain medication for him. Unfortunately there are no OTC pain medications you can give him, many human ones are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. 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. I'd also see if you can borrow money from family and friends.
  
  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/
  

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on January 4th, 2019

  I'm sorry Rascal isn't feeling well! Lethargy is a very general sign of illness, and it could be caused by things such as systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury. He really should be seen by a vet asap. 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 him into a vet. Best of luck.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on January 21st, 2017

  If he's sleeping, his breathing can change in response to any dreams he may be having, so this is normal. I would monitor him for now, and if any swelling appears or he starts limping, he will have to see a vet. I will give you some resources that may help you afford a vet should you need to take him into one. 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/
  

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful