[goldenboyroe]

i had a young doe who developed a massive tumour on her side and within a day or two of noticing the lump it had doubled the size/weight of the mouse - i took her the vets and was advised to have her put to sleep due to how quickly the lump had grown and the likelyhood it would return.
i would have operated if the vet had told me it would likely be a success but i paid for the consult and the drug to put her down - i think in total it cost £30 (it was several years ago)

i personally wouldnt take on an animal unless i could afford to treat it if and when necessary and i would feel a responsibility to the mouse (especially if i had used it for breeding purposes) to give it the best chance or end its suffering if necessary.

i breed cavalier king charles spaniels but the health and happiness of the dogs and puppies is the most important thing and would rush them the vet in a heart beat if i thought necessary and i would have the same respect for mice - i dont think because they are small or have a short lifespan that their health should be compromised to save a few quid on vet bills, that doesnt make a responsible pet owner - but you do have to way up the pros and cons for surgery for any animal and even for ourselves before going under the knife.