here in CA we have some teaching schools
(the surgeons there are learning their craft...
they are not just practicing for the heck of it..
there are certified surgeons to guide the students.) they do major surgeries to get the
up and comers used to new techniques!

are there any vet schools in your area???

speak to the doctor about the possiblility of
maybe using this surgery as a teaching 'tool'.

i know that sounds too simple and risky.

you wouldn't want to put your pet into the hands of a rookie, but it may be a way to offset the cost. Again, there are qualified surgeons in the OR to make sure that nothing goes wrong.....

your heart is your guide, but you have to believe that what is in your heart is the best possible
answer to the problem...

thank you for giving us the skinny on Bassett!