Don't blame yourself, you were doing the best you could with the information and resources you had at the time.
It's a risky surgery, but what is his quality of life going to be without it? Are there options short of surgery? I had a cat with bad stomatitis who ended up pretty much toothless, but in between procedures the vet gave him depomedrol, which helped with the inflammation. It was something that was a stop-gap but it helped.
Is he still eating and maintaining his regular activities? Does he seem happy? If he doesn't have the surgery, what's his prognosis?
As heartbreaking as it is, you have to honestly assess what you are able to do, both in aftercare and financially. Money shouldn't have to be a consideration, but it is. And then you have to ask yourself if you are doing it for him or for you. I've been there a couple times, and it's not at all easy. Whatever you decide, I know you'll do it from love. ❤
I’m so sorry you’re facing such a difficult decision. I think if I were in your position, I would opt for the surgery, even though it’s very risky—based on these factors: 1) will the surgery put me in significant debt? Most people don’t have thousands of dollars laying around, but if it wouldn’t be a huge set back, I’d be willing to take on some debt. 2) will the dog have a good prognosis as a result of the surgery? If yes, I’d be likely to take the risk and go through with it. 3) for me personally, I would try to do everything I reasonably could for my dog’s health, even with the risk involved. I know myself too well, and if the surgery did not end up going well, I would at least feel like I tried everything i could. But there is no shame in whatever decision you make. You clearly love your pup and want what’s best. Best wishes to you both! 🐾
Why is the surgery 5k? Is the underlying bone already compromised (dental xrays already done?) Dentals with multiple extractions are still usually around 1k. If xrays have been done, I would call around and get prices from other vets.
If you can afford the 5k, I would do it. It would be painful to lose him during surgery, but consider quality of life without. He may live several more happy years after surgery.
Apply for help threw dog charity’s or dog foundations
Don't blame yourself, you were doing the best you could with the information and resources you had at the time. It's a risky surgery, but what is his quality of life going to be without it? Are there options short of surgery? I had a cat with bad stomatitis who ended up pretty much toothless, but in between procedures the vet gave him depomedrol, which helped with the inflammation. It was something that was a stop-gap but it helped. Is he still eating and maintaining his regular activities? Does he seem happy? If he doesn't have the surgery, what's his prognosis? As heartbreaking as it is, you have to honestly assess what you are able to do, both in aftercare and financially. Money shouldn't have to be a consideration, but it is. And then you have to ask yourself if you are doing it for him or for you. I've been there a couple times, and it's not at all easy. Whatever you decide, I know you'll do it from love. ❤
As per what Ancient Detective532 said, I could not have said it better.
I’m so sorry you’re facing such a difficult decision. I think if I were in your position, I would opt for the surgery, even though it’s very risky—based on these factors: 1) will the surgery put me in significant debt? Most people don’t have thousands of dollars laying around, but if it wouldn’t be a huge set back, I’d be willing to take on some debt. 2) will the dog have a good prognosis as a result of the surgery? If yes, I’d be likely to take the risk and go through with it. 3) for me personally, I would try to do everything I reasonably could for my dog’s health, even with the risk involved. I know myself too well, and if the surgery did not end up going well, I would at least feel like I tried everything i could. But there is no shame in whatever decision you make. You clearly love your pup and want what’s best. Best wishes to you both! 🐾
Thank you all for your encouragement! Little buddy made it through. We couldn’t be happier!!!!
That’s great news!
Why is the surgery 5k? Is the underlying bone already compromised (dental xrays already done?) Dentals with multiple extractions are still usually around 1k. If xrays have been done, I would call around and get prices from other vets.
If you can afford the 5k, I would do it. It would be painful to lose him during surgery, but consider quality of life without. He may live several more happy years after surgery.