[gemy]

Phil, I am really late to this thread. First I am wishing you and Bella a very successful surgery!

Just a suggestion, if Bella is not crate trained, then start now to crate her, so that after surgery her crate will be a welcome place to rest and recouperate.

On swimming, if you don't usually swim with her and or she has not experienced the bath tub swimming. Here is what I suggest, buy a non slip mat that will run the whole length of your bathtub, and then try her in the bath tub with you and she in it together.
I would look to see if you have a full dog rehab clinic, that might have the underwater treadmill - I have had good very good results with underwater treadmill work. As has Mike Alaska Yorkie.

Also investigate to see if Class IV or V laser treatments are indicated for her rehab. Again they can do wonders with soft tissue healing.

Also there is a special site (the name escapes me right now) that you can order a specially made ice pack. I have had two made for Magic, one for his lowback sacrum, and one for his elbow. They are worth the $$ as they fit via Velcro to their respective places. Very sturdy construction.. And I keep mine permanently in the freezer.

Also I don't know if you have stairs but stair climbing needs to be strictly curtailed as well.

Best of luck to you and your gal.