[ladyjane]

Originally Posted by Wylie's Mom

When a person is unable to prioritize whether to obtain healthcare vs. saving money for Valentines Day -- it ceases to be a matter of judgment or a matter of the extent/quality of their love. Rather, imo, it becomes a matter of safety for the vulnerable creature in their care - whether human or fur.

If this is was a human child, and things of this nature were occurring, there are options in place whereby strangers and/or healthcare providers can report issues. On a dog forum, many members are very alarmed, only to be left helpless since many humans do not see animals as true priorities when their main goal here is to *not* see a vet, where they may 'waste' or spend money. When money wields this much power in someone's life, the luxury of time for education has often passed (but can come later, if amenable).

My degree is in healthcare too - and educating patients should only go so far - at some point, protection needs to take over - whether from themselves or for the sake of others. Education may be the goal, but safety always comes first in healthcare, always.

to all of it and especially the highlighted parts!