Tripawds Three Legged Dog & Cat Forum Archives

My little tough guy Jax has been battling a bad break since March of 2017. After multiple surgeries, laser treatments and second and third opinions he has his front right leg amputated on Sept 4. The first night was rough but he has been back to his old self since then. He is happy and not in the pain he was before. We are very comfortable in our decision and so glad he has bounced back quickly. Yay!

Unfortunately, Jax has also broken his left front leg when he was a puppy 6 years ago. The plate has broken and the leg is VERY deformed from the last year of having to rely on it. Our vet is at a loss. This isn't his specialty and after the terrible experiences we had at the "specialty" facilities within a few hours drive of us we don't know where to go for advice. Do we amputate the second front leg or make due with what Jax has left? He isn't in constant pain BUT also can not use the leg.

I've started to use a long soft cloth to support his front end so he can use the bathroom without struggling. He has a custom-made cart but is unable to use the bathroom in it. I've also contacted a company about having a prosthetic made for the recently amputated leg. This will take time and we need to wait for his amputation to fully heal before Jax can start a rehabilitation program. (which would be at a facility 2 hours away)

I think this is more of a vent  because I know no one can make this decision for us. I have been looking at the harnesses on this site but none seem to do what I am looking for - support his front end and keep all weight off of his remaining front leg.

Even with the continued unknown, our little tripawd is adapting amazingly to his new life. So glad to have found a place to share his successes!