The surgery is not all that bad really. It is your pup's best chance at a long healthy life!
One of my pups was not diagnosed until he was eight...and he is fine. His surgery was done Feb 2013. He had never had symptoms or abnormal blood work...the only reason we found out was because he developed bladder stones which will eventually happen with liver shunt pups.
There are many people on this forum who have liver shunt pups that were repaired and they are doing terrific! I am sure they will be here to share. I am going to contact one who is a friend of mine. I am sure she will have a lot to share with you!
As for the cost, she went to the University of TN...she said it was less expensive to go there (and they are great with shunts at UT) than it was to have it done here in Texas.
Welcome to YT!!
So glad you found us...you will get a lot of support here.