Hi Kirby...
Oh, wow, the UP huh? Yes, that is far!! Lansing would be ideal as MSU has an incredible vet program and they are AMAZING! But I see your problem, 8 hours is VERY long to be in the car and then have a surgery, then drive back...the drive back would be horrible!
I wanted to ask you if the vet recommended you put your pup on Glucosamine supplements?? They are great and really help to lubricate the ligaments and reduce the patella to luxate. We use Dasuquin and Snick takes it daily and will for the rest of his life. Many people who has pups with LP use it prior to surgery and it has helped so much the decided not to do the surgery. This is something you can try.
I know how hard this is!! xoxoxo
Snick & Viv