[harley38]

We took him to the vet, they say he has a slipped disc and want to do a $2500 operation. Is there any other alternative?
Thanks
Ron & Harley

[peggyhill]

I would consider getting a 2nd opinion, same as you would a person. My friend's dog had a problem with a disc and he did have to get the surgery.

[RubyPitbull]

Unfortunately, back problems are commonplace genetic issues with doxies bred in the U.S. and more often than not, surgery is required. Getting a second opinion as Peggy suggests, is always a good idea. If surgery is necessary, ask friends, family, neighbors, co-workers about their own vet recommendation and start doing some checking around on pricing. You might find another good vet who will do the surgery at a lower cost. If the vet hasn't mentioned this, keeping your dog very trim helps alleviate the pressure placed on the spine, although it doesn't mean that you will be able to avoid the surgery issue. But going forward, it will help aid your dog in the recovery process and is the best thing you can do to help him avoid further complications or more surgeries as he ages. I am so sorry your dog is going through this.