[cashflyer]

In these tough economic times, it is becoming very common for vets to pad their billing with un-necessary testing.

If the man did not sign as a guarantor of the treatment costs, he may be in the clear.
And I doubt that the vet's bill would be an enforceable debt against the dog's estate.

I would start by asking the dog's next of kin if he had a will, and would also check with your state probate court regarding the possible obligation.