Kerry,
I'm glad Merlin will be OK. Based on what you said, it does sound like it was wise you went to the E-vet.
Yes, a dog can escape accidentally, but if you have a self-described "psycho" dog, you need to take extra precautions (which clearly she did not). I hope she is a woman of her word and pays the vet bill (and we don't end up seeing you on Judge Judy )
Marc and the Joisey Girls