dog problem

Question
QUESTION: My mom has a 7 yr. old Bijon Friese. It is a little overweight but otherwise normal. It is just not acting right latelyand every now and then she will just make a short yelp like something hurts for a second. She does not want to eat much and I do not think she is constipated. Do you have any ideas about what might be wrong? I am a RN and just have no idea. Mom is afraid that the Vet. would cost lots of money. She is retired and on fixed income.

ANSWER: What do you mean she isn't acting right? Is she lethargic? Depressed? Sick to her stomach? Does she have a fever? What is she doing when she yelps?

If you can provide a bit more information I may be able to assist you- but I would still recommend her getting into the vet :)

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QUESTION: She is usually just lying around when she yelps and she only yelps for a second. She is not lethargic or nauseated. She is just not as happy as usual and not running around much. Do dogs get the "flu"? Thanks for your help.

Answer
Yes, dogs can get influenza. They are normally vaccinated against it. You should see coughing/sneezing/discharge or something other then the symtoms you are describing.

If she is yelping and not moving around much, she may have pulled a muscle or ripped a tendon and thats why she is in pain. Have you palpated her to see if you find any sore places?