Tripawds Three Legged Dog & Cat Forum Archives

Hello everyone,

I specifically joined this site so I can get advice for our puppy family member named Maddie. Maddie's is a year and a half old west highland white terrier. About a month ago Maddie and our other Westie named Tori were outside relaxing on the front lawn while my parents were gardening when 3 pitbulls escaped our neighbors fencing and attacked our two dogs. There were a lot of damages done to our dogs but thankfully they are doing much better and out of the woods right now.

The issue my family is facing right now is in regards to Maddie's right front leg. During the attack the pitbulls attempted to basically rip off Maddie's leg and since then she has not been putting any weight on it. Our local vet told us that it was most likely very sore and she should start using it (although I didn't think she was correct) but a month later after the attack Maddie is still not putting any weight on it so we went to see a pet surgeon that we trust. The surgeon informed us that there is damage to Maddie's elbow and he may have been able to fix if we came to him right after the attack but now he is doubtful that he can repair it. He is performing more xrays today in hopes of finding something he can fix but he does not think Maddie will be able to use the leg as she once did. He told us that there are basically two options for us to choose from which is to fuse her elbow so there will be no mobility there or to amputate the leg completely.

Now over the past month Maddie has adjusted to using three legs fairly well. A couple stumbles here or there but overall she has surprised our family with how adjusted she seems. That being said I don't know if it would be better to fuse the joint or to lose the leg completely. Maddie still has mobility in her shoulder and wrist but the elbow is shot. My father is leaning towards fusing, with the thought that Maddie can still move her shoulder to maneuver the leg while my mom and I think amputation would be best. 

So I really need advice or help or to hear from both sides. Have some f you done the fusion before and what do you think? And the same goes for amputation. Our family just wants Maddie to be happy and healthy. She is a young pup who has a lot of life to live and we want to do what's best for her. 

Any responses are appreciated.

Thank you.