Claybird,
The possibilities are many:
1. Injury did not heal properly.
2. Surgery did not go as well as originally thought.
3. Not in shape.
4. Lack of drive/desire in the dog.
5. Combination of the above.
How old is she? You mentioned the vet recommending swim therapy, but stated you could not do so. Was this because the dog just couldn't do it, or lack of water or too cold?
If she is still pretty young, I would get her in shape, and take some trips afield to see how she holds up. If the leg is still giving her trouble and you can honestly say she is in shape, I may get jumped on for this, you may want to consider early retirement for her. Just enjoy her company as a pet, and start the search for another gun dog. Just like ball players, this is a serious injury. Some make it back, some don't. JMHO. Hope it all works out.
Kind regards,
