lovemachine;6944194 Dogs are more than dogs. I'm sad that you don't know this.[/QUOTE said:I like you LM. But here is where I rest my case.
My commitment to my pet overrides my common sense? Nah. My dog has more common sense than a lot of people.
My parents had an 8 year old rottweiler. Raised him since he was a pup. He was diagnosed with diabetes. And they gave him insulin and pain killers everyday for years. His last year, he went blind. And they still cared for him, he was a very happy dog, even while blind. But then his pain got worse, and they had to put him down. The point is, they spent all kinds of money for him. And they have no regrets.
Dogs are more than dogs. I'm sad that you don't know this.
Both of our dogs have had the surgery.
Recovery takes a while. The bigger one (105lb Rottie) had a harder time of it.
The little guy (65lb Rottie mix) was much easier.
Our big girl was probably 90% after the surgery. She has some stiffness, and will favor the leg when she get's up or lays down.
But.....she still runs around the yard after squirrels and such. Definitely not in pain.
The little guy was 100% after. I think being smaller, and younger made it easier.
Yes.....it wasn't cheap, but don't regret having it done.
Dr. Steve at McAfee Animal Hospital in Valparaiso did both of 'em.
Good people, no hesitation about recommending him.
How do you keep a lab from NOT playing catch? We have 3 and they'll run till they drop. Even when we take away all the toys the youngest one still drags up sticks, pieces of paper and at times even weeds wanting us to throw for her. The only effective way we've found to slow her down is take her toy and put it between the front paws of the oldest as she's laying down. One look from the older one and she stops immediately!
Do the surgery. And did you know that you can buy insurance for pets. That might be a option in the future for you and those reading
My dog is family and I'd do everything I could before putting my dog down.