[107barney]

Did the ortho vet say what grade the LP was? Also, if this ortho vet is not a board certified surgeon, I'd still go for another opinion. My own dog has had LP surgery (grade 4) 9 years ago. She has a grade 4 in the other and VERY STRICT crate rest with Rimadyl in the past has signficantly helped. She had an injury last year but due to liver disease cannot be on rimadyl, but we still strictly crate rested her with tramadol for pain.

My advice to you right now is two-fold.
1. Consult with board certified before any decisions are made. If already have done that, second board certified doc take a look. I am not sure how easy this is for you based on your location.
2. Crate Rest - very strict - meaning you pick him up and let him pee/poop while on a leash and then back in the crate. I know this is hard, it sucks but I believe it really helped my dog avert surgery on the other leg. She is 11 years old and this has really prevented the need for surgery in her other leg. She does not take supplements and does not have any signs of arthritis. You mentioned walking and jumping and you need to take that free will away from him for now.

I am sending your info to my friend, if she has more ideas I'll let you know those too.