Is your dog's breeder reputable? If they are, they should have given you a health warantee on the pup. Most warantees will either give you half of the initial price of the pup back, or replace the pup. You might want to see about getting the money to help pay for the surgery.

I agree about Kongs. They are awesome! Just fill them up with peanut butter and treats, or cream cheese and goodies, and the dog goes crazy trying to get it all out. You could also buy one of those "treat balls." You put the treats in and the dog has to figure out how to get the treats out. I'd also stock up on nylabones and other "safer" chews that she can be left with while you are gone.