My dog's leg was amputated for pathology and not an accident, but I never thought twice about it because her quality of life depended on it. Your dog is already not using the leg, it will likely be easier for him to not have a useless appendage to drag around. Even though he doesn't experience pain from the open wound, it is still a potential source of infection.

Your doubts are human emotions. Your dog will come home and get on with things. While you will hear a lot of warnings about the first two post op weeks…and it is all good advice…don't set yourself up for the worst. My dog was over 12, has arthritis, and was up and walking down 23 stairs less than 24 hours post op. She never looked back and has yet to have a bad day…or miss her leg. Much of their success depends on your attitude. You are already working with a rehab vet, so you're both ahead of the game. Isabelle was back in the underwater treadmill the minute her sutures were out, 13 days after surgery.

You will both be fine with his three legs! Best of luck.

Cynthia

Hi Sammy's family! Welcome to the club you don't want to join but will be glad you did! There are a good many dogs here who lost legs through accidents, so you are in good company. What kind of dog is Sammy (or blend) and how old is he?

I'm with Cynthia regarding the sore on Sammy's foot. I would think the potential for infection would be stressing you out more than the idea of amputation. You have given this enough opportunity to get better and it's not getting better. Sammy will run faster, jump higher, leap tall buildings with a single bound–all kinds of impressive feats–once he's freed from dragging around the thing that's hampering him.

Sammy's lucky to have you advocating for him and worrying about him. He will reward you. Now…how about some pictures!?

Shari

Thanks so much for all the kind words!  It helps knowing that so many have been through this and that it will be okay. Sammy is a havanese mix (they are in the family with the bichons). He is 4 years old. I know that it is for the best but I guess I just get more anxious as it gets closer. I will definitely keep everyone posted on how everything goes!

I am not sure how to post a pic on here so if someone tells me how, i would love to show yall pics of my little man!

Welcome to the tripawd family. I think it is very normal to have feelings of doubt, but once Sammy gets through the initial recovery period, your pup will amaze, impress and inspire you.

Abby is two years old, 45 pounds, and a front leg amp. She is now at almost 10 months post surgery. After about two weeks she was back to her old self and she does pretty much everything she used..runs at the beach, plays ball, digs, wrestles, can even sit up and "shake" with her remaining front leg.

Put those doubts aside and be secure in the knowledge that you are doing what is best for Sammy. Come back here for support and questions during the recovery … And for updates! We will all want to know how Sammy is doing!

All the best,
Jackie, Abby's mom

Welcome to the site! You will be glad you joined because everyone here understands where you are because we have been there too.  The advice is great, and we all know what you're going through.  My guy Ranger was hit by a car too, but he was already about 1 year post-amp when we adopted him.  He's 6yrs old and about 62lbs and gets around great! I also had a 80lb German Shepherd mix that had osteosarcoma and we had to amputate her leg, so I've been through the recovery part too.  Smaller dogs seem to have an easier time with recovery, but you should be prepared for anything. Feel free to ask lots of questions because most likely someone here has been through whatever problem you're having. Good luck with surgery!

Lisa

Welcome to Tripawds! Sorry to hear about Sammy's accident. As others have said, he will amaze you with how well he'll do post surgery. The first 2 weeks can be quite difficult, but after that – watch out! Make sure you get lots of rest – take care of YOU so you can do the same for Sammy.

Please keep us posted…

Cathy