In the last few days (even in the last few years) we had to debate whether or not we should have the operation for Chili. How can you decide? I wish I could ask him if he wanted it, and he could tell me a simple yes or no!
We have been told by numerous doctors that arthritis would set in if he didn't have surgery, but the surgery wasn't a sure-fire way to prevent it either. The success rate of the operation is very high, but nothing is 100% or guaranteed. What about the risks of anesthesia or infection? Is it worth it? How can we tell Chili and make him understand that the terrible pain he's about to endure will help him in the end?
We came to our decision. We wouldn't operate if Chili had no pain, and his leg was nothing more than a nuisence. The past week of wimpering and limping convinced us he's in discomfort and some pain, and the vet agreed. We adopted Chili with the intent of giving him a long, happy, pain-free life. We're going to live up to our promise to him. Hopefully, he'll be a happy dog after surgery, too!
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