I think Sammy is depressed-Update

[GentryDixon]

I took Sammy to the vet today. After x-rays my vet (Gary) tells me he needs surgery. Sammy has been over-bred by the seemingly normal family I got him from.

His small bone in the front of his legs down to his ankles did not form well, or quit growing, and to compensate, the back bone grew too much. This back bone is very thick, and has a definite curve to it. It is putting pressure on his little ankles, which is causing his stance. He tells me his back legs are fine, but he is putting his weight on them to ease the front legs, which causes him to wobble when he walks.

The surgery involves going in and trimming the back bone down to straighten it out. This involves a specialist. Gary could only guess what it would cost, which is about $2,000. Being on a fixed, retired income, this is a hard choice for me.

I did ask him about the Nupro joint supplement I ordered (saw on DU Pets). He told me it would help the arthritis he sees around the ankle caused by the rubbing of the bones. Poor baby.

Decision, decisions.

[BrklynLiberal]

1. Tough decision in your position.

Can Sammy get some pain relief as well?

check this out..it may cost less than the surgery....
http://www.doggon.com/dog_wheelchairs_front_support.html


Here you can find a variety of front end slings/support, as well as leg splints...if they would help
http://www.handicappedpets.com/www/pet-products/help-pets-walk/60-harnesses-and-slings.html

[GentryDixon]

2. Thanks for the links.

So far, he is able to get around nicely. He runs around like a normal dog. It is only on occasion he gets lame.

I have bookmarked these links.

[alstephenson]

3. Poor sweet Baby.

I'm sure you'll do whatever you can for him. Good luck.

[ehrnst]

4. There are some financial resources for pet owners in your situation

Care Credit
http://www.carecredit.com/vetmed/whycc.html
CareCredit works just like a credit card, but is exclusively for healthcare/Veterinary services. Simply choose your doctor or procedure when you apply online for your instant approval and then setup your appointment. Some promotions offer no-interest payments for a specific period of time for bills over $300.


Angels 4 Animals
http://www.Angels4Animals.org
"Angels4Animals, a non-profit organization and a program of Inner Voice Community Services, has a mission to serve as the guardian angel of animals whose caretakers find themselves in difficult financial situations. At Angels4Animals we believe that animal owners should not have to say goodbye to the animals that they love. Our work is accomplished in conjunction with veterinary clinics across the country, eager to assist as many animals, and their owners, as possible. Our services range from financial aid to complete treatment to those pets and pet owners in need."


Help-A-Pet
http://www.help-a-pet.org/home.html
"Our efforts focus on serving the elderly, the disabled, and the working poor. For lonely seniors, physically/mentally challenged individuals and children of working parents, pets represent much
more than a diversion."

IMOM
http://www.imom.org
"Mission Statement:
Helping people help pets. To better the lives of sick, injured and abused companion animals. We are dedicated to insure that no companion animal has to be euthanized simply because their caretaker is financially challenged."((NOT FOR URGENT CARE - must apply in advance of the treatment.)

The Pet Fund
http://thepetfund.com/
"The Pet Fund is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit association that provides financial assistance to owners of domestic animals who need veterinary care. The purpose of the Pet Fund is to work towards a future where decisions about companion animal medical care need never be made on the basis of cost." (NOT FOR URGENT CARE - must apply in advance of the treatment.)


HandicappedPets.com
http://www.handicappedpets.com/Articles/help/
"From time to time, HandicappedPets.com recognizes a caretaker of handicapped pets that need some special attention, and a little extra help. There are those who are so selflessly dedicated to their animal families that they give up a little more than they can afford."

[njlib]

5. Thank you for these valuable links

I'm bookmarking for future use, as I've been unemployed for a month now and have 2 dogs and 5 cats! All of my cats are young, but both dogs are 10 and I hate to see them getting old.

[radfringe]

6. Wishadoo..

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=389&topic_id=5231888&mesg_id=5231888

[glinda]

7. I would try to get the surgery done and ask the Vet what is the best he can do for you.

You may be surprised. Many Vets do try to work with their clients. Your pup has a deformity which looks like he would benefit greatly from help. Good luck and wishing you all the best. We have been there, done that and don't regret it as our little dog can walk again.