I have a question about my 5yr old Lab and hoping someone can help. I'll start first with the history of our health problems.

I owned 2 brothers that were 4 years apart, same mother different fathers. They were both diagnosed with thyroid problems at the same time and are on medication. The older Lab then developed califlower like tumors in both ears and after lots of testing and 8 surgeries we finally had to put him down 2 months ago.
Here's what my question is about,
Since the younger lab was puppy he lays down with his back legs stretched out behind him. I thought he'd outgrow this as puppies usually do, but at 5yrs old he still lays like this. He also has walked a little funny. His hips sway back and forth and his back feet turn in a little as he's steps. This hasnt seemed to bother him until a couple of weeks ago. Now he seems to have a slight limp with one of his front legs. He has no problems getting up to rise, or run full speed when he wants to though.

After our long ordeal with the area vets for our older lab, I dont trust these vets! We live in a small town, and the next closest vet is quite far away. I'm quite possitive they had only money in mind, total vet costs were $6,250 and I'm afraid they'll do the same thing with my surviving lab. I'm going to take him to the vet 100 miles from here, but I was hoping before we go, someone might have some information about this, so I wont be blind-slided again. Thank you for any help you can give me!