this is a very tough call...but i do not like your vets' advise!!! though poor toby was neglected to begin with...a sore can be cleaned and healed...the arthritis can be eased with bute...or aspirin...the dog needed i.v. fluids from the vet....with vitamins to bring him back to where he might want to eat...you said he ate peanut butter sandwiches, ergo he had an appetite....sorry,you asked for an opinion...its' not what you want to hear....but i do not like your vet one bit...i would have seeked another opinion...deli dog