How can I convince my parents to take my sick guinea pig to the vet?

Question

I have four guinea pigs. One of them, Ella, has been displaying signs of an URI for a day now. My mother is worried about money, and she says the last time one got sick it cost so much they were late on bills. There's only one vet in our area who sees guinea pigs. I cannot and will not just sit here and let Ella die when there's something I can do to prevent it. Ella has a sister named Bella and they are both four years old. My other two guinea pigs are just over a year old. 
It may seem weird to some, but I believe Ella and I have a special connection. I won't elaborate on that, though.
Ella has been sneezing, breathing heavily/wheezing, and her eyes have been watering. I also think she lost a bit of weight, but that might just be my paranoid mind.
All four have been living together, but Ella is the only one displaying any symptoms at all. Bella snorts, but she's done that forever. 
Thank you all in advance for your answers.
http://itachisasukecookie.deviantart.com/art/Queen-Ella-406069535
This is a picture of Ella.

drattit · Accepted Answer

Threaten her with animal cruelty laws. It is the law that you must take sick animals to the vet or seek treatment.

And I am not trying to be cruel or mean, but if you cannot afford the vet costs, you do not need the pet. Especially four!

Melissa · Answer

Unfortunately you can't make your mother do anything...but you could always try the good old fashioned guilt trip. Seriously though, explain to her that if Ella has a URI she may die and tell your mother how much that would hurt you. Offer to do something like mow lawns or chores to pay her off/make it up to her. I know bills for a URI can be quite expensive at times, upwards of 200 bucks depending on how much medicine she needs. Good luck!

V · Answer

That's really sad. For everyone, including your parents. They probably do want to help, but financially cannot.

It sounds like a respiratory infection to me. If it's not an infection, you should try finding a mild antibiotic if you can find one online. If it is a full formed infection, there is not much you can do other than go to the vet.

Keep her away from the other guinea pigs as she might be contagious. Wash your hands before and after handling her as to not spread illness to your other gpigs. If you can't find an antibiotic, give her a multivitamin and hope for the best unless your parents come up with the money for the vet. :/

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How can I convince my parents to take my sick guinea pig to the vet?

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