Melissa, what a hard thing to have to deal with. You've probably already found out whether there are non-surgical ways (medications) to treat Gypsy's problem? Everyone has their own answer to your question. My own answer is, when the animal can no longer take joy in life, it is time to help it go. As long as it is taking pleasure from life, then we help it stay alive. Sometimes the hardest thing is not to be selfish. It sounds like your Gypsy is still feeling ok. I think you'll be able to tell if she loses her enjoyment of life or if pain becomes intolerable for her. [Posted in FML issue 2552]