There's always options right ?? Wasn't that EXACTLY the point being made ?? It hasn't been said what the "knee problem(s)" were in the OP. I'm looking around on the Internet concerning Luxating Patella right now, but I don't think I can help the linked poster. Anything Grade 2 and above, surgery is recommended. $2800-$3000 seems to be the going price in the PA, NJ and NY area. MAYBE if she were affiliated with a shelter or rescue somehow ... she MIGHT have a hookup for a discounted rate. If her dog only has Grade 1 or MAYBE Grade 2, Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM might work for a time. If I knew something that was truly a viable option ... I would post in the other thread. I'm sorry the OP of this thread has to go through this and, "It just saddens me that she didn't feel there was another option". I hope she finds peace.