Rio was almost 11 when she had her amputation (rear left) because of recurrent Mast Cell cancer. And she was about 72-74 lbs. She had some arthritis in her front right leg that I was concerned would become a real problem over time, but so far hasn't been too much of an issue.

I debated for nearly two weeks before deciding that I had to go ahead if I wanted to keep her with me. It was a decision that I agonized over, cried myself to sleep over, and waffled over. Even taking Rio in to the vet's that final day, I wasn't sure I could go through with it.

The day I picked her up post-surgery, I was expecting to lose it, but she had already adjusted to her "new normal." Her strength and ability to adjust to this life-altering event gave me the courage I needed to get through it, too. She did have some balance issues, initially, and we did have some days where I thought, "why did I do this to her," but we are nearly eleven months out now, and if I hadn't done the surgery, I know I wouldn't have had this much time with her.

I know you don't feel it right now, but you are so lucky that Daisy is at this crossroads because of an accident, rather than because of cancer. It means that once the amputation is done, you can look forward to many years of healthy, happy Daisy. And she'll be loving all the extra attention she gets because she's a Tripawd.

Try not to worry, and try not to second-guess yourself and try not to feel guilty about this. Much easier said than done, I know. But it will be okay! Daisy will amaze you with her resiliency and fortitude! And you thought you loved her before the surgery — trust me, you will love her even more after!

Micki and Rio