I think this is a bit of a double edged sword. If everyone who ran into this issue gave up on reptiles entirely, we wouldn't have quality reptile vets at all because there just wouldn't have been enough momentum of demand for it to get where it is today. I think it comes down to each individual's decision of whether or not they want to take the risk and deal with the heartbreak when complicated situations arise that are beyond the scope of the vets in the area. Certainly the need for surgeries for non-breeding animals aren't commonplace in BP's, but it does happen. As much as I wish for every animal to have top care and the best technology available to their owners, the technology only continues to improve with the demand, which requires that some people brave things as they are while progress is being made. I'm not suggesting we just act carelessly and try to keep animals way past our means, but as someone who got in a long time ago and lived through a lot of the stage of toughing it out without quality reptile vets available anywhere, I see the merit it being willing to push the envelope a little. Just my 2c, and I certainly respect where you are coming from.