New Years Update:  Zeus has recovered splendidly from his surgery and seems to have totally adjusted to his new gait.  He's already trying to jump up and down on his paw (which I'm trying to discourage obviously).  His pain management consisted of Rimadyl and Tramadol, along with an initial fentanyl pain patch.  He's finished with all of them now however and seems to be doing just fine.  I tried to take him on a short walk the other day but he indicated it wasn't time  yet so we decided against it.  He has climbed the stairs inside the house much to my chagrin, but he's not comfortable descending them just yet.  Otherwise he's his cuddly, loving self.  I can't thank you all enough for your advice and look forward to continuing to learn even more.