Q: When a dog isn't eating, oftentimes she isn't drinking either. Dehydration is a major concern and can cause serious problems. Keep an eye on your dog to make sure she doesn't become dehydrated. To do this, check her gums. They should be pink, wet, and slick, not dry. You can also press a finger to your dog's gums until they change color. When you remove your finger, the color should return immediately. If it takes a few moments, the dog may be dehydrated. Dogs who are vomiting or who have diarrhea are at a high risk for dehydration. Never try to force water down your dog's throat. Forcing water down her throat can cause more problems if she doesn't swallow. Instead, try techniques to encourage her to drink on her own. If your dog has been vomiting, solid food probably will make her sicker. Give her salt-free broth or beef bouillon three to four  times a day. This will help keep her hydrated while giving her needed nutrients. Homemade broth is better than canned broth. Unflavored Pedialyte, which is a drink for children containing electrolytes, can help your dog if she has not been eating or drinking. The Pedialyte can help replace much needed electrolytes. Sometimes, you can get your dog to lick a wet surface so she can get some water. See if your dog will lick water from your hand or fingers. You can also try to see if your dog will lick an ice cube. Sometimes, adding an ice cube to your dog's water can help. She might be more willing to drink it with the ice cube inside, which makes the water cooler. Some pets like to drink running water instead of still water, so also try a drinking fountain to encourage your dog to drink. Dehydration can cause serious problems. If your dog refuses to drink anything, take her to the vet. The vet can give her fluids through an IV and find out if there is an underlying condition.
A: Check for dehydration. Do not force your dog to drink. Feed your dog broth. Give your dog Pedialyte. Let your dog lick water from something. Add ice to the dog's water. Take the dog to the vet.

Q: Tell the person you need to have a serious discussion with them. Take some time in a quiet environment to explain exactly what you need the money for. Honesty ensures that trust and communication stay strong even if your family is reluctant to lend money. For example, say, “I had to make a big payment on my school loan and I don’t have enough left to pay my rent this month.” It helps to bring along a copy of the expense, such as a bill or rent contract if it’s available. While asking for more than you need is inappropriate, asking for a second loan because you borrowed too little makes you seem irresponsible. For example, say, “I’d like to borrow $20 to go to the concert this weekend.” When you need to borrow a lot of money to pay several bills or a business loan, take time to describe how you’ll allocate the money. Writing out a clear and concise plan can convince the person that you’re responsible. This is also a great way to double-check that your personal finances are in order. For example, the budget might say, “$200 for the electrical bill, $100 for groceries, and $50 for transportation.” Assess your personal budget or business plan to figure out a time estimate. This depends on the size of the loan and how much money you have available every month. You may need to go back to your budget and cut costs to repay the debt as soon as possible.  For instance, a little bit of money to cover dinner might be paid back within a week, but a large business loan can take months or years. Asking for money should be treated as asking for a business loan no matter the size of the loan nor how close you are to the other person. Discuss how often you’ll be required to pay back some of the money. If you’re borrowing a large amount, you probably won’t be able to pay it all back immediately. Work with your family to establish a basic minimum you’ll pay during a set time period, such as every month.  Establishing a plan keeps you on track. You’ll never forget to repay the loan or include it in your budget. Get creative! Family members may also count odd jobs such as mowing the lawn as part of your repayment. It doesn’t hurt to ask. Remember that the other person is taking a risk instead of using this money as they please. Think of how much interest they’d get from keeping the money in the bank for a month. Come up with a low-interest rate such as 1-2%, and add it to what you owe every month. The interest is a positive way to show appreciation for your family member’s assistance. Discuss what will happen when you don’t make a payment on time. This is up to you and your family. You might have them remind you of the loan or charge you extra next payment. Find something that motivates you to stay on track.  For example, you could owe your family a favor or chore, such as babysitting your little brother. Establishing consequences show that you’re taking this seriously and can help facilitate open communication about what is otherwise a difficult issue. You can go online and find sample templates to print. Write down the details you and your family discussed, then have everyone sign their names. This turns your request into a physical, binding agreement. A physical copy is useful for making everyone feel comfortable and clearing up any confusion that might arise in the future. Stay in contact with your family members. Call them up from time to time like you normally would to update them on how you’re doing. If there’s any trouble repaying the loan, mention that too. You may be able to skip a payment or work out an alternative payment plan.
A: Discuss why you need the loan. Ask the person for the exact amount you need. Create a spending budget for large loans. Explain how long you’ll need to pay the money back. Work out a repayment plan. Offer to pay some interest. Come up with consequences for late payment. Sign a promissory note. Continue communicating with your family as you repay them.

Q: Whether you notice symptoms in you or your child, see the doctor as soon as you can. It's also important to go if you notice a sudden increase in one issue, such as falling or clumsiness, as that could be an indicator of this condition. Make a list of symptoms to take with you. Note how frequently they happen. That way, you won't forget anything while at the doctor's office. Most forms of MD have a genetic component, so your doctor will want to know if it runs in your family. Talk to your doctor if any family members have had specific types of MD. Before doing anything else, the doctor is likely to check you over physically. They'll do things like listen to your heart and breathing, as well as take your blood pressure. The doctor may also ask you or your child to walk so they can check out you or your child's gait. The first test your doctor is likely to run is a blood test. They'll be looking for 2 types of enzymes. The first one, serum creatine kinase, indicates the muscles are deteriorating when at high levels. The second one, serum aldolase, converts sugar into energy, and when your levels of it are high, it can point to muscle weakness.  The blood test is also used to determine whether you are carrying the gene for a specific type of MD. Before going to the doctor's office, drink extra water. It's easier for them to take blood when you're hydrated.
A:
Schedule an appointment if you notice symptoms. Discuss your family history with the doctor. Be ready for a physical examination. Expect a blood test.