I'm so sorry to hear about this...I have 2 elderly dogs myself, & they aren't the first dogs I've lived with & loved either. If you're wondering- I wouldn't put Banning
thru such a risky surgery if I were in your shoes, but only you & Katie can decide how and when to intervene (with the help of your vet, I'm sure). You're right that
he had a rough start in life, but he's had a good life with you since then...too many dogs never even have that. You're all in my thoughts...hugs!