I never researched the most recent fusion modalities success rates. An other forum is filled with the emotional debris of failed fusions. I have extensive DDD (L -2 to L-5), questionable facets acc'd to MRIs, and adjacent segment syndrome's a concern. Nice summarization job but sorry you had to do it.
+ +
There's substantial literature on "pet therapy" and how this helps people heal better and diminishes depression. Even hardened prisoners love caring for animals. Remember how Koko mourned (warning: hokey music):
http://diabellalovescats.com/koko.htm