I don't have a problem with people posting for advice if they are willing to TAKE the advice that the animal needs to see the vet. Often these types will post and make it clear they have no intention to go to the vet because they can't afford it, or else they are advised to take the animal to the vet and they ignore the advice saying the vet is not possible for one reason or another. THAT is what I find infuriating.
Of course there are always situations as mentioned, such as a younger poster who relies on parents. It is still upsetting if the animal cannot receive vet care, but more understandable on the poster's part.
I also don't agree with relying so heavily on ANY board for a diagnosis. We are not vets here, and cannot see the pet. We can give ideas, but a board should NOT be a substitute for the vet to diagnose and treat an ill animal. Sure someone could join up and post their dog is limping lately, someone else may suggest the dog could have arthritis and that buffered aspirin might help. The poster may just decide the person must know what they are talking about and figure they just got saved a trip to the vet, only to find out down the road their dog had something much more serious that could have been caught and treated earlier.
These are just my thoughts on this.
