I can't comment on radiology/x-rays because I've never run into that, but the other charges seem in line. I've taken my dog to two vets. One charges around $40 for an office visit. The other charges $12, but adds on for stuff that the other vet will include in the $40. Horse apiece, I guess. Metacam is expensive. I pay $87 for 100 ml. That's better than $43 for about a third of that amount. $18 would seem right in line for 15 ml. 100 ml covers my German Shepherd mix for 54 days. With a small dog, of course, you don't need as much. I think the issue is more breed vs. breed than large vs. small. In this case, I think it was simply an accident that could have happened to any pet, regardless of breed or size. It looks to me that danzig6767 did his homework, which is the most important thing. You'll know what you're going to be up against. For instance, my friend's getting a Papillon after having Miniature Pinschers. No sweat if the mini-pins jump from fairly significant heights, for instance. With the Papillon, that's less likely to be the case. On the other hand, the Papillon sounds like it'll be much easier to train. With large breeds, you can bet on experiencing hip and joint issues at some point. With my Shepherd mix being a few weeks shy of 15, I'm experiencing that right now. danzig6767, I wasn't questioning the use of the leash; I was simply saying that leather is the nicest option. Nylon can burn your hands, for instance, and tangles easier. While I'm thinking of it and just in case you consider buying one: retractable leashes can be great, but they have to be very carefully handled. There was a report a few months ago of a person actually losing part of a finger because of one of those things. If a person can lose a finger, obviously, you also have to be watching your pet carefully. The big rule is that children shouldn't be allowed to handle those things. The second rule is that teenagers and adults should be fully aware of the directions and warnings on the package. One potential cost-saver: if your dog is ever prescribed human medication (Metacam isn't), you may save by taking the prescription to your local pharmacist.