My 15-month old Labrador has LBM (4th day)

Question
Hi, Pepe, my Lab started to have LBM and I am concerned for he
is steadily losing weight. Pls help me rescue my dog. Thank
you.

Answer

Hi Mario,

By "LBM" I assume you are talking about loose bowel movements, if I am incorrect in this assumption feel free to get back to me.

Loose bowel movements can be causes by many things. You didn't say what you've tried to stop it, if your dog has been examined by a veterinarian, or if the vet ran any diagnostic tests.

It's entirely possible that your dog has intestinal parasite, as this will causes diarrhea and weight loss.  Your dog would need to be examined by a vet to rule this out, and to identify the kind of parasite, so you could get the correct medication to kill the "worms". Only after the possibility of parasites is ruled out can you look at other causes for the problem, such a sudden change of diet, an intolerance to the kind of food being fed, a virus, or another medical condition.

If you are having trouble afford 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. If you don't have a regular vet, try call all the vets in your community, some might be cheaper than others. Ask friends and family to lend you the money necessary for the office visit, you may be able to get an advance on your salary if you explain the situation to your employer.

Another option is to contact your local shelter or Humane Society. Some shelters operate or know of local subsidized veterinary clinics or veterinary assistance programs. If you happen to live within driving distance to 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

If the loose bowel movements have been going on long enough to cause weight loss, you should not put off getting your dog the care it needs.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti