I've a lab. When he was six months old he was diagnosed with hip dysplasia. He was fitted with an artifical hip. When I went to pick the dog up the price had increased by $500 from the original quote. After six weeks of recouperation, the lab was still not walking properly. The Vet told me after more xrays (not free) that the ball joint had popped out of its socket. It had to be put back in place. You would think that this would be at no cost, but he charged me a further $2500 to repair his operation. I was not at all impressed. The only reason that I would use his services again is because he is a brilliant surgeon. It would be benefical to his business if he ceased his arrogant demeanour and charged reasonable prices. I am on a pension, and that $7500 hurt. But I suppose that it paid for a dozen bottles of Grange!

Approximate cost: $7250