Depressed about our furbaby...need help

[isaacsmom]

So...with DH out of work and 5 kids we barely make it week-to-week. Couponing is a lifesaver...just wish it worked on everything. We have a 10 year old golden who is amazing with the kids, but pees everywhere. We have been taking her out every 1.5 to 2 hours and she still is having several accidents a day. Until recently I just thought it was that she was getting old, but have heard from several people recently that it may be a UTI or hormone issues.

Unfortunately, my landlord witnessed one of her floods on the UNSEALED hardwood floors and was outraged. We begged to be able to keep her and promised that she was housebroken and he had reluctantly agreed. Now he wants us to find her a new home and no rescue groups can take her at the moment. I wish I had this checked at the vet prior to now, but didn't think it could be a medical issue. We are flat broke and I don't know what to do. She is the sweetest thing ever...couldn't make her mean if you tried, but nobody is going to want a 10 year old dog.

I have had so many animals over my lifetime, but never had an issue like this. I have even adopted senior animals from the shelters because I didn't want them to die without a family. Now I am stuck renting and I may have to send her into that same miserable environment. I don't know what to do.

[1tricky1]

Lots and lots of people want goldens! Even one that age.
It does sound like a UTI.
Check to see if there is a prison trained K-9 program around you. They would probably take her. When I worked for the Prison trained K-9 program in Colorado (as an instructor not an inmate!), we took any golden we could get our hands on!
Or you could place and ad for her in the newspaper.

[motherofmolly]

talk to your vet and explain the situation. maybe he will cut a break on the bill or know someone who could take her. if it is just a medical issue, she could make an older person a great companion

[CSchunk]

If you are having trouble paying your bills it would probably be better for your family and your doggy to find him a new home. It seems like someone out there would gladly take in a well trained family friendly dog.

[IntoTheMystic]

Please call a vet immediately- as in as soon as they open. Explain your situation and ask them to treat the dog for no charge, or to take payments on time. If he/she won't do this, please bring your dog to a shelter IMMEDIATELY. If you've ever had an UTI, you know how excrutiating these can be. My chocolate lab had one once, and she was in a great deal of pain---- drinking a lot, stopping to pee everywhere every few minutes, very agitated, etc. It is NOT fair to let your dog suffer! I'm sure if you bring your dog to the shelter, and they treat the UTI (if that's what it is), another family will adopt her shortly. Please do not wait.

[Barbie08]

I am so sorry to hear of your troubles. I'm sure having a pet for 10 years he has become a big part of the family. Before you give him away because I'm sure the kids are very attached, call your vet in the morning, explain your situation and I bet they will tell you to go ahead and come in. I completely understand the financial strain. My only income is Social Security and when Silkey, my 16 year old Daschund got an auto immune disorder, my vet treated her and I am paying them alittle a month. PM me if you want to ask any questions.

[kaolin]

maybe you can find some help here...

Speaking for Spot: Dog Health Care Tips & Veterinary Advice | Financial Assistance for Veterinary Care

[isaacsmom]

Well...we went to the vet and there is no infection. No kidney probs. No diabetes...

[kval07]

I'm glad you went to the vet and ruled that out. My next guess would be a behavior problem. If you have any carpeting that she has peed on, she will keep going back to that spot as well unless it is cleaned up.

As much as I hate to say it (because I believe a dog is like a kid and you just don't give them away) you may need to find a new home for her. Do you have any family/friends who would be willing to take her in? If not, do some research in your area. Lots of people love goldens, and older dogs are perfect for housebound seniors who are looking for company but don't want a young, active dog.

Let us know what happens.

[isaacsmom]

She has only peed on the hardwood, but the finish is almost completely gone so it just sort of absorbs into the wood and makes proper cleanup nearly impossible.