If you have to have surgery, don't freak out! We had a good surgery experience. They did both of my Sammy's knees at once. The first 3 days were hard because she was in pain, but then she figured out how to walk on the casts and she was OK. After she got the bandages off it was 1-2 more hard days, then the worst part was just limiting her activity. She was back to normal after 4-5 weeks. The difference is amazing. She walks better... jumps higher... she was always a happy dog but now she is even happier.
