I have a serious question and would love your input

[Zeus is Loved]

I really feel your pain. My baby was diagnosed with LP in both back legs and Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease in the left hip. His left knee would not even stay in its track. Of course, the LCP surgery had to be done first. The orthopaedic surgeon said to wait on the LP and see what happens. Zeusy was put on a joint supplement one month before LCP surgery and is still on it. He is post LCP surgery almost 7 weeks now. I am happy and very lucky to report that the knee on the left is now staying in track. He is a 1 or 2 LP in both back legs. The surgeon thinks the way he was having to walk to help with the LCP made the knee worse. Zeusy was arching his back and tucking his hiney. He has now told me to leave the knees alone. The LCP was really bad. After having to change vets and obtaining a second opinion (with two sets of x-rays), the hip joint was already breaking down on itself. He could barely walk before the surgery. His muscles were completely atrophied in the left leg. He was a pitiful pup. On another note, my friend's dog has lived with a 3 LP in both back legs for 11 years. She sees a different vet here. He said he only recommends LP surgery for a 4.

I know I'm rambling here, but I'm astounded at the cost for the surgery. Here in Mississippi, it was $925 for the LCP surgery and would be $1,200 for both knees with LP. Vet care is as bad as people care in this country. I also live next to the Mississippi State University which is the vet college here in Mississippi. That's where my orthopaedic surgeon graduated. I think the Go Fund Me page is a great idea.