14 yr old male Chihuahua

Question
My 14 yr old senior Chihuahua Cody has become very disoriented and confused within the last 24 hours. He has been somewhat blind in both eyes (cataracts (sp?))and has trouble hearing.  He hears noise, but cannot tell where it's coming from. He seems to still be eating and drinking ok. Last night one of his front legs looked like it was spazzing  bit and he seemed to have some balance issues.  There has been no whinning or whimpering.  He went out to urinate this morning and came right back to the stairs where I pick him up and carry him down the stairs. My son took him out at lunch time and he said the same thing.  He laid with him on the floor and said he just seems very confused and disoriented.

Answer

Hi Mary,

Your little Cody should be examined by a vet, it's simply impossible to guess at what his problems might be. Was the "spazzing" of his leg and balance issues due to a seizure? Is his reluctance to relieve himself due to a bladder infection? Is his sudden onset of confusion due to abnormal blood sugar levels, an infection, seizures, exposure to toxins or spider bite? As you can see, there isn't a way to guess, but dog don't lie. Cody is having a problem, and needs to be check out.

If you are having trouble affording veterinary care, first talk to your regular vet. Ask your veterinarian if he or she will let you work out a payment plan. Many veterinarians are willing to work out a weekly or monthly payment plan so that you do not have to pay the entire cost of veterinary care up front. Another option is to contact your local animal shelter or Humane Society. Some shelters operate or know of local subsidized veterinary clinics or veterinary assistance programs. Yet another option is to contact friends and family and ask for a loan. If you happen to live within driving distance to a veterinary school, check with them to see if they offer discount services to the public. There are two special credit cards to apply for, which help with medical bills (including veterinary bills) read about them here:

http://www.carecredit.com
http://www.healthcard.citicards.com

Best of luck,

Patti