Boss’s Saga Continues

Boss awoke from his anesthesia well (remember I had to anesthetize him just to get xrays) . Were keeping his pain contolled and he is resting for the moment.  I called his owner and inform her of his fracture and set a time to discuss options from this point

When she arrived, I start in on the xrays and types of stabilization needed and give a fairly good prognosis barring any rare complications. I then recommend that they see an orthopedic surgeon and give an estimate for the service. Needless to say, the price of $2500-$3500 was overwhelming and, per the owner, completely unatainable.

I tried unsuccessfully to help find some financing to spread out the cost. Since no sources of help were available and we’re at a significant impasse. She simply does not have the finances to care for Boss at this time of need.

I offered to attempt the surgery myself. Not an board certified ortho surgeon, but this surgery I have done with success and the principles are basic. This will cut the costs in half at least and the prognosis is still good.

This compromise is still unacceptable to the owner. Boss is in a lot of pain and waiting on surgery will compromise healing. I can feel the decision inching towards euthanasia. He can’t just go home on pain meds. He can’t live in this current state and I just cannot put this dog to sleep.

I offered one last alternative. The practice will accept relinquisment of Boss from his current owner. I will take on his care and his surgery and his life. The owner will no longer have a say in his care, but no longer will have the financial burden either. This sounds harsh, but is done to benefit the pet and get his urgent medical needs met. This of course is difficult for the current owner to consider, but she knows that Boss’s pain needs to be fixed. She asks for the evening to consider her options, and decide tomorrow morning.

Life just sucks right now for all those involved.