Easy enough. Explain that anesthesia is riskier than the surgery itself and that most insurances would rather do the 2 for 1 thing.
Plus since he's still kind of young, it won't be as hard to tote him around (since crutches aren't possible).
Probably would have been better if he were 5 but 7's not too late (I hope).
As far as the turtle shell idea, I think E5 may be talking about the infamous "snail" or "Escargo" popular during the late 80's, early 90's. Even better for our purpose is the Fischer Price turtle sandbox (from around the same time). Use the bottom half to feed the dogs, flip the top over some sifted Georgia clay, and cover with 5 inches of TN clay and 6-8 inches of topsoil. (I've been researching since Bubba was born. This gives him the height advantage he needs.) Just make sure he's wearing steel spikes...
If you need to get rid of evidence, the lyme's not a bad idea but make sure you put the, uh, evidence at least 4 feet below the field surface. Those boogers have a way of resurfacing when you least expect 'em.
On a more personal note, Bubba is experiencing a bit of a setback. Mom added fruit to his diet and well, it looks like those grunt bars are the LAST thing we need. Every time I coerce him to throw me the ball, he ends up acting like an old man that ate too many burritos. (No offense...)
Let me know how the scouting report is going. I can't stand the thought that we may have to put Bubba into the rec league this summer but I know ya'll are so supportive that you'll give us a look anyway.
And, as always, thanks for your help.