Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi, I have a question regarding stamina in my dog, Trey. He was born with a birth defect & had to have the front left leg amputated. He is getting around great but when he goes and plays with his siblings or goes out hunting with them, he tires out much more quickly. My question is, does the front leg amputation make a bigger difference on stamina versus the back leg amputation? Any information would be greatly appreciated. I know the vet said that 60% of the weight is carried in the front.
You ask a great question! Yes, front leg Tripawds do have a few extra challenges with mobility and building stamina. Because they do carry more weight even with that missing leg (the head adds a lot of weight as well), they must propel more mass forward than a rear-leg Tripawd (think of it as hopping forward while your arm is sticking straight out and holding your purse, it's challenging!). In addition, because puppies are so young and haven't built up coordination the way older dogs who lose their leg already have going on, they are learning to be three legged at the same time they're learning how to get around on 3, which doesn't come naturally at first. So...
There are lots of things you can do to help him, 1 being to monitor his activity with the other dogs so he doesn't overdo things. Eventually he'll be able to keep up with him but right now he probably needs more breaks and downtime then it sounds like he's getting. Here are some great blog posts that tell more about ways to build stamina, prevent injury and keep him strong.
http://gear.tri.....gged-dogs/
Also, our first online DIY go-at-your-own pace Tripawds Fitness course is coming up, registration opens this week so if you can be there it would really help Trey:
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
And to add that, because he was so young when he had the amp.and his growth plates, bones, etc. are still growing, try and make sure, as Jerry said, he's not over doing it.....no jumping or anything that causes heavy pounding on that front leg. If he's playing full out like any puppy would, it has to be incredibly exhausting for him! Glad he knows to stop and rest.....smart pup!
It was great to hear from you and to know he is having such a happy life!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
jerry said
You ask a great question! Yes, front leg Tripawds do have a few extra challenges with mobility and building stamina. Because they do carry more weight even with that missing leg (the head adds a lot of weight as well), they must propel more mass forward than a rear-leg Tripawd (think of it as hopping forward while your arm is sticking straight out and holding your purse, it's challenging!). In addition, because puppies are so young and haven't built up coordination the way older dogs who lose their leg already have going on, they are learning to be three legged at the same time they're learning how to get around on 3, which doesn't come naturally at first. So...There are lots of things you can do to help him, 1 being to monitor his activity with the other dogs so he doesn't overdo things. Eventually he'll be able to keep up with him but right now he probably needs more breaks and downtime then it sounds like he's getting. Here are some great blog posts that tell more about ways to build stamina, prevent injury and keep him strong.
http://gear.tri.....gged-dogs/
Also, our first online DIY go-at-your-own pace Tripawds Fitness course is coming up, registration opens this week so if you can be there it would really help Trey
http://tripawds.....arts-soon/
I just want to point out that Deb Gross has postponed the tripaw blind fitness class through the Denise Fenzi School. Deb told me this morning the class will now begin April 1. I am bummed!
Mary
WHaaaaa? Oh my I should check my email. Thanks for the head's up.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
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