I took Smokey to get another opinion today. This vet said that if it was his dog, he would not do the surgery because he runs and plays without limping or yelping. He gave him glusosamine/msm chews (which he will not eat) and a fish oil that you spray on his food (now he doesn't want to eat the food). The vet said that out of 20 small dogs he sees a day, that 15 out of the 20 would have luxating patellas.
The board certified orthopedic surgeon said if he didn't get it, he would probably have arthritis in it around 6 or 7 years old. He is the one that said it would take 3 months of confinement (it sounds so long and I'm sure it would have to change his personality a little bit and Hot Rod's Mom said).
I only want to make the best decision for my little man.
Thanks everyone for listening and for your responses. It's very much appreciated! |