Hey Laurie,
Actually, she had her first one (ACL) when she was two..........then when she was three she was diagnosed with elbow dysplasia. (Yes, another surgery!) Then the 2'nd ACL when she was five. So unfortunately, she's a real pro when it comes to the Vet........and pain.
But never complains. If she's really hurt, she'll just lay low for a while. But as soon as she feels the slightest bit better, it's business as usual! Yes, stoic to a fault....
I always felt bad for the girlie, she was dealt a bad deck when it comes to orthopedics......other than all that stuff though, she's always been really healthy. Never any stomach issues, no sicknesses, seizures, ear, heart, or eye problems. At least she always had that. In fact, she still does!!
You should check out that harness Jlaak just suggested. I looked at it the other day, looks like it would work pretty well. If I had trouble carrying my dog I would get it. But I just carry her up & down the stairs......(I'm a tad-bit over 110 lbs.....actually, Xena's 110 lbs...LOL!!) ...my back doesn't hurt yet, so for now I will just write it off as excercise!!
Talk to you soon,
MK