Help Atari get new hips!

In July of 2012 my boyfriend and I decided to take in a puppy who was a part of an accidental litter. We had just gotten our first apartment together and felt like we could give an animal a good home. We took him in and did everything you're supposed to do - we took him to the vet, we trained him, we socialized him, we loved and cared for him as much as we would have our own child. We found out about 6 months ago that Atari has severe hip dysplasia and will need a double hip replacement. We took him in for x-rays and the vet suggested orthopedic surgery or rehabilitation, which would result in him needing surgery later on anyways. We are currently giving him supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, and omega-3), as well as Meloxicam, which is an anti-inflammatory and pain medication. Unfortunately we are both students and despite putting everything we have into him, we can't afford his surgery. I've been told by most to have him put down, or just not to bother getting him new hips, but it breaks our hearts everyday to see him in pain and struggling at such a young age. He is almost a year and a half old now, and I don't feel like this should be it for him. Ending his life or forcing him to live in agony isn't fair. I'm here trying to raise the money for his orthopedic consults and double hip replacement. Please help give our sweet boy a second shot at a life without pain.

At present, the average cost ranges from $4,400 to $4,700 per hip. This includes the examination, laboratory work, x-rays, hospitalization fees, antibiotics, anesthesia, surgical fees, special surgical drapes and the cost of the implants (which accounts for about 35% of the fee).