Acetylene

My Sheltie had an autoimmune disorder that eventually killed her when she was 6. But before that happened, I kept her alive and happy for almost her entire life by making homemade food for her that would prevent symptoms. My father had a cat with liver failure that made it for 5 more happy years with homemade food, as well.

Try the diet route. Animals do not suffer from disease as badly as we do, because they live in the "now". They don't wish they were better or worry about getting worse, they just live their lives. Don't give up on your puppy! If the time comes to put him down, HE will let you know. At the very least, the diet might buy you some time while you save up for the surgery (since it looks like shunts don't heal on their own).

Oh, and you might want to ask around for a better vet. No vet should be suggesting you put a dog down when there are other options. In fact, a GOOD vet will have financial options available, even if they will just accept postdated checks, specifically to avoid having to give up early on a dog that has a chance.

I always try to live my life with hindsight. Ten years from now, how will you feel about the decision you make now? Will you be proud of what you do? You might also ask yourself what lessons your kids will learn from this, which is likely to be an event they will remember for a long time.

What is this diet you are talking about here? Where did you find it?

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