1 yr old can't eat, limping, lethargic

[LumeDeLuna]

Hi everyone, I was wondering if anyone had any ideas to what may be wrong with my puppy. Friday night, he started limping (back, left leg) and would not eat his dinner. Saturday morning he was totally lame, and would not eat or drink. We took him to the vet, and had him tested for lyme disease as well as had his leg x-rayed. Both were negative. We noticed that his leg was swollen and he had a high fever. He gave us some pain killers and anti-biotics. We took him home and added chicken stock to his water, which he did manage to drink. Sunday he was walking again and tried to eat, but ended up throwing up 4 or 5 times. Monday-Tues he seemed to be getting better, but Wed he threw up after eating and he did again tonight.

The doc mentioned getting a biopsy on his knee area, but I could not afford it at the time. I will have some blood work done when I can afford it but he seems so young to be having these issues. Has anyone else experienced this or have any clues as to what may be going on? I'm trying to keep him fed enough and trying to keep him on bed rest as much as possible.

Thank you for your time.

 

[BostonGeorge]

Sounds like it could be an infection of some kind. I dont think its something you should wait on...esp if its a puppy. In the end, it could cost wayyyyyy more if you wait until things get worse. See if you can work out a payment plan with your vet...most are willing to work with you. Best of luck!

 

[Sansal]

My girl had immune mediated polyarthritis. It didn't present as severe as with your puppy but she was under one year old when it all started. I totally understand the financial strain (I probably spent close to 2000$ only to get a proper diagnosis) but I don't think you will get around doing a joint tap (I think that's what the vet meant with biopsy?). A small amount of fluid is drawn from the affected joints and then cultured and the results will help the vet establish a diagnosis. Maybe you could apply for Care Credit?
By the way, once we found out what was wrong with Sky the treatment did not cost a lot: Something like 24$ for two rounds of prednisone.
Please don't let your puppy suffer.

(((Healing Vibes)))

 

[Gatorblu]

I think I would have the test done as well. As someone mention you could apply for CareCredit, or check with the Humane Society to see if there are organizations in your area that can help finanically. Swelling and fever are sure signs of an infection. You didn't say how old your pup was, but a growing pup needs to eat. And many pups in pain won't eat. It can quickly become a slippery slope. Good Luck!

 

[LumeDeLuna]

Thanks for the responses

He is trying to eat again, and can hold it down most of the time. However he's suddenly very sloppy when he eats. Half of the food he puts into his mouth just falls right back out. I did apply for care credit and will talk with the vet about the next step in testing. I do appreciate the feedback here though, as he's had a few health issues in the past and these forms help me understand the types of health issues in the boxer breed.