If you want to use someone else's money for free, see if your vet will take the Care Credit card. You get 18 months to pay off the bill. Get someone who specializes in the procedure. We used a VT alum in Frederick, MD. And no, he didn't give discounts to fellow Hokies, unfortunately. You can get a cheaper deal at the VT Vet school, but there's a waiting list. One last thing: Just be prepared to baby your pup for a few months. Might want to do it before cold weather sets in. Icy conditions don't go too well with the healing process - assuming you live in a colder-weather area.