Tripawds Three Legged Dog & Cat Forum Archives
Tripawds is your home to learn how to care for a three legged dog or cat. Explore 17+ years of forum archives for stories and answers to questions about dog leg amputation, and cat amputation recovery. Enjoy fresh discussion and connect with members in the new Tripawds Support Circle.
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We're about to adopt a 12-18 month old tripawd Border Collie/Aussie mix rescue pup who was the victim of "target-practice shooting" (how we despair at the unending cruelty of humans.) We're very excited but don't know quite what to expect as parents of this type of special-needs pup. We understand he is the sweetest boy, surprisingly active and very happy. He will be one month post-amputation (front leg) when he comes to us. Knowing how social and friendly he is, we've decided to also adopt a fourpawd puppy at the same time--nuts, we know, but in for a penny in for a pound! Wondering if anyone could offer tips on how to prepare our home/what special equipment to buy/any other suggestions to make both pups happy from the start? We recently said goodbye to Rupert, an abused and rescued sighthound who was the love of our lives for six too-short years, so we already understand the commitment and love required--and given--by extraordinary, special companions.
Thank you,
Teddy Bear and Winnie the Pooh's new Mommy
Welcome to Tripawds, your future posts will not require moderation.
Congratulations on your new pack! Yes you are a bit 'off' for adopting two puppies at the same time.... but then aren't we all 
.
You could read through Jerry's Required Reading List for tips on accommodating a tripawd. You can also check out the Gear Blog for information on harnesses and other gear that might be helpful.
Some Tripawds get along fine without many accommodations. Traction is really important on slippery surfaces like wood or tile. Keeping a tripawd lean is really important to protect the joints, even more so with a puppy with a long life in front of him. I'm guessing with a young BC/Aussie mix that won't be a problem! Many find the Ruff Wear Web Master harness very useful, but I know lots of Tripawds who don't use any kind of harness. And you might not want to invest until your pup is full grown.
I'm sorry Rupert crossed the Bridge- it was wonderful that he knew the love of a good family before he left.
Pictures would be great when the pack gets to their new home!
Karen
Hi Guys, welcome! Thank you for giving this pup a chance at a loving home, that's a pretty horrific way for a dog to start out in life. Thank you so much for showing him humans can be kind.
I'm envious you get to adopt two dogs at once! Karen suggested what I was going to say, but I would add this: be prepared for a challenge when it comes to keeping him from overdoing physical activity. As a young dog he will want to keep up with the quadpawd and this isn't always the best thing for a Tripawd. Managing his physical activity and keeping it in check is about the only thing that makes a Tripawd "Special Needs." You'll need to ensure he gets enough physical activity to keep him fit, but not so much that it's bad for his joints in order to avoid serious joint and mobility problems later on. These CARE Videos and Interviews tell more.
Let's see some pics!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Congratulations on your additions! Looking forward to lots of photos!
I am actually in the same boat as you, we are adopting two new dogs, who are arriving this Saturday.
Our experience with our tripawd Jake was so rewarding. You will find this to be true with your new addition. They teach us so much. Their ability to overcome their obstacles is boundless.
Jerry gave you some of the best advise, and I would add to that: learn. Learn from others, but most importantly learn the lessons your tripawd will teach you.
BTW... our new additions are both tripawds!
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