I'm posting this for some friends who could use some advice.

They adopted a border collie a few months ago. The dog is now 15 months old, and developed a limp. They have taken the dog to two veterinarians, and both vets said that the dog would most likely need a hip replacement on one side. They both recommended that they take the collie to a specialist in Dallas for further evaluation.

They have spoken with the specialist in Dallas, and were told that a THR would run approx 5-6k. Obviously, THR is not the only method of treating hip dysplasia, however, if it were the best course in this case, 5-6k would most likely not be an option for them. Without disclosing too much of their personnel info, they just do not have a lot of discretionary income at this stage in their life. This is a young dog though, and they don't want for it to be in pain, or be on pain medication for the rest of its life.

Does anyone have any advice? These people aren't destitute, it would just be hard for them to swing 5-6k if it came to it. Does the teaching hospital in CS ever perform student lead surgeries that would be less expensive?

I'd get a couple of good opinions and ask for options at price points before deciding.

A bunch of my friends back home in Del Rio take their dogs to Mexico to get them fixed up for pennies on the dollar. I know the vet they take their animals to as well, he is a really good vet and guy in general. I know it's a random response to your question, but it may be way more economical than 5-6k, even with driving a long way and putting yourself up in a hotel for one night.

Too many variables to answer your question thoroughly as far as other options. I know one of the surgeons from the vet school posts on here, maybe he can help you.

DVM

They sent me a copy of the dogs x-ray. Both DVM's they visited refered them to a specialist. One said he would "be surprised" if hip replacement was not recommended. The second Dr. didn't want to speculate. Obviously, there is a wide spectrum of treatments available, and I'm certainly not asking anyone to make a diagnosis. I just know that the dog owners are very worried right now.

Thanks for all of the responses so far. The Mexico one is certainly interesting. I don't know if it is feasible, but I will mention it.

http://imgur.com/visUi8r

Did they actually consult with the orthopedic specialist? Or just call for a quote? I would at least speak to the specialist (in a consult, with the dog) and have them evaluate the radiographs and see what they recommend. There is another surgery called a FHO (femoral head osteotomy) that some private practitioners will do that would be less expensive - however the larger the breed and more active a THR will give a better functionality/outcome. However if the goal is mainly reducing the dogs pain then an FHO would be an option. It is technically a salvage procedure - as in, you cannot go back and do a THR later. All (well pretty much all) vets will work with you as lots of people cannot afford $5000 for a surgery, and we often have to go to plan B.

And seriously - would you go to Mexico to have surgery done on yourself even if it was cheaper? Just saying, you get what you pay for.

OP - PM me we can visit. Im the small animal orthopedist at the vet school that DVM97 mentioned. Took a look at the x rays you linked on imagur. Would prefer to not discuss pricing, treatments, and such on the boards. What area of the state are your friends in with the dog?