I can understand how you feel. I have grown kids and a grandchild and I love them dearly but I feel so much more responsible for my pets who depend on me for everything. Both of my yorkies have health issues and they are not quite 2 years old yet. One has a compromised liver (MVD) and the other one has CT and a luxating patella. I have heard that the University of Tennessee has made a lot of progress with surgery on the trachea. I don't know exactly what their percentage of successes are but they have come a long way with this surgery. I know that they will also consult with your vet in regards to medications. I am waiting for my vet to do a consult with them. I don't think the surgery is anywhere near $8500 but I guess it depends on how many stents they have to put in. They use to have to use human stents but now they have a company that can make them specifically for each dog. I guess the surgery makes a world of difference. I plan on managing my CT yorkie with medicine as long as I can and then having the surgery done when the medicine no longer works. I'm hoping that they will continue to make improvements in the surgery. Attached is a yahoo group for CT babies. They might also have some good advice or suggestions for you.
http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/YAPCTsupport/
Prayers for Samie coming your way.
