Hi and thanks for joining. We're so hoppy to hear that you're thinking of adopting this pup!

You've asked and important question and I'm glad you did. Other members through the years have wondered the same thing. Here is something I shared with one of them:

In short, all dogs are different but to ask a Tripawd to hike or even walk for that long is asking for trouble later on in life when their joints are worn out. Sure, a young dog will and usually even can do those kinds of hikes, but in just a matter of a couple of years the effects will show. Whether the terrain is hilly or sandy (which is actually more difficult to walk in), that length of time will take a toll.

One way you can get around that is by taking a dog stroller along on your hikes. Lots of Tripawd pawrents use them and they are SO helpful for dogs who want to be with the pack but cannot endure walks like that. Here's a post that will help....(READ MORE)

Every dog is different but in general the kinds of activities you're describing are asking too much of a dog who is compensating on 3 legs. Plus, I know how terrible you'd feel by leaving him home. I hate to say it, because I never want to discourage an adoption. But matching a Tripawd up with the ideal lifestyle is so important. You're super conscientious by even wondering about this subject, thank you for that.

Sure, we've had members who are hunting dogs, and they can go go go for up to an hour, but those are extremely fit dogs who aren't just weekend warriors, they live it every day. The average family dog isn't as fit. Even my own German Shepherd Tripawd Wyatt Ray , who is extremely healthy and fit, isn't capable of something like that. Doing other things with him worth the trade off for us, but it isn't for everyone.

Long hikes, only on weekends and vacations, is asking for trouble later on down the line. I would LOVE to see this dog find a great home, but the lifestyle you're describing is more suited to a four-legger, and I'm pretty sure rehab vets wouldn't recommend it as well. You can always ask one too, just find a certified one in your city.

Here's something you can do to see what it's like walking on 3 legs. You'll feel silly but it really puts you in a Tripawd's place.

• Get on your hands and knees on the floor
• Pick up one hand or leg
• Try running, walking, jumping and spinning in circles
• Do it at least 10 minutes.
• Ask yourself, what is my body feeling? Were are the places that are starting to feel it?
• Think about what that would be like every day, for 10 years or so. Then you'll have a good idea of what it's like to be on 3 limbs.

Here's a great post about someone who made some adjustments after their dog lost a leg: Hiking!

I hope this helps. If you decide against adopting and would like to help this dog find a home, do post his info in our Rescue Forum. Thanks again.

You bet! I love that you are thinking of creative ways to incorporate him into your family, he sure deserves a great pack like yours.

Yeah, Tripawds can run fast, mostly for momentum, but also because they have no idea they're missing that leg. It's up to us to regulate their activity to make sure their other 3 get to last for a long, long time.

Yes, absolutely get him into rehab! It's the #1 best thing you can do for any Tripawd, young, old, lazy, active. And the Tripawds Foundation will even cover the cost for your first consult with a CCRT/CCRP practitioner.