Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi Everyone,
Today I found out my almost six year old (his birthday is tomorrow) Carolina Dog named Murphy has osteosarcoma in his rear left leg. I am waiting now to hear from the oncologist about treatment. Last week his vet discovered the abnormality on his bone while doing an X-ray. At first they though he had arthritis or hip dysplasia but found cancer instead. The vet was fairly certain right away that it was bone cancer, but I was holding out hope for something else. I'm leaning toward amputation and chemotherapy, but I want to really make sure Murphy has a great quality of life.
I only adopted him two years ago, and before that he lived in a shelter for two years after being found as a stray. I'm mainly worried that surgery will be too much for him. He gets very stressed around the vet and other dogs, so it's hard to think that the rest of his life will be spent in and out of the vets office. It would be great to hear from anyone and everyone out there that could give more advice about making this decision. Thanks!
Murphy, became a tripawd on August 17, 2015. Went to the rainbow bridge on July 5, 2016.
Welcome. Your future forum posts will not require moderation.
Sorry to hear about Murphy, but glad you found us. He looks fit and strong, so he should recover quickly and adapt well to life on three legs. Be sure to bookmark Jerry's Required Reading List for lots of helpful links!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Hi Murphy!
Sorry you have to be here, but under the circumstances there is no better place to be! I know this is gut wrenching news and turns your world upside down. As you co tinue to do research snd move forward with a treatment plan, you will actually start ro feel some relief. We all understand like no others can snd we are right by your side, okay?
Just to let you know right off the bat, we have another member here named Murphy and he's going on TWO YEARS after amputation living life to the fullest!
IF...IF it is osteosarcoma, amputation will be getting rid of a very painful leg and give Murphy the best chance at living life to the fullest! For the time being just keep things chunked down. Do your research about amputation, look at videos of dogs doing so very well on three legs and you can decide about chemo in a couple of weeks.
Murphy does NOT have a timeframe stamped in his butt! Murphy is NOT worrying about tomorrow, or vet visits, or any ole' diagnosis. Murphy is just living in the moment..in the present..soaking up all that wo derful @oving and spoiling you give him. He is soooo lucky to have found his forever home with you! Geez...two years in a shelter! I guess he does get nervous around other dogs snd vets' officees! And I'm surprised he doesn't jave arthritis!
As far as being stressed out at the vet's for surgery, he'll be so high on drugs while he's there he won't care where he is...he'll be feeling just "fine"!. One thing you might do, if you arent already, is make every vet visit mean going through a drive thru and getting a cheesburger! Also give him a big ole' Merrick bone to gnaw on in the car . Besides, most Oncos have really great vet techs who know how to calm down nervous dogs and actually make them seem like they look forward to going to the vets.
Any extended pain free time is QUALITY time when he's with a human who obviously loves him as much as you do!. You are giving Murphy a chance at more loving...more spoiling... more treats...more tummy rubs....more playtime...more steak and ice cream! Vet visits are just a teeny weeny interruption from a fun filled life!
If your surgeon thinks Murphy is a good candidate and all his work up looks good, that's always an important part of the equation. It IS major surgery and it does have unforseen riskx. We've seen it happen with members in the sifpte..rare, but it does happen.
For me, I felt like I had to give my Happy Hannah a chance. She was loving her life and just was not ready to pack it all in. I k ew I woukd regret it if I didn't try.
Recovery was no picnic for about three weeks for her. I was wo xering what in the world I had do e TO my dog. But once her sparkle started coming back, it came back bigger and brighter than before! I knew then I had done this FOR my dog! Happy Hannah sailed through four rounds of carboplatin and we had THE most gloriously fun time laughing and loving for over o e year and two months! And in doggy hears, that's over seven years of being spoiled rotten!!
When you can, we'd love ro see pictures of your sweet boy. He sounds like he's got a lot of living left to do!!
Stay connected to us okay? We'll help in anyway we can.
Sending lots of love to you and Murphy!
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!
I feel for you getting this diagnosis for a dog who is not comfortable at the vets or around the other dogs. Our Ellie was the same way. She did not like car rides so trips to the vet just started w/ a lot of stress. And she was unpredictable around other dogs (waiting rooms were so stressful for me!). But she tended to be submissive outside our own home so once we got in an exam room or they took her to the back for treatment, everyone always said she was "so sweet". Yeah, right......
A couple of ideas. One is ask how he is once separated from you. It may be he is much less stressed once you are out of the picture. Another is to explain clearly to the vet and techs that Murphy has issues. They have seen it all before! So they can make arrangements perhaps for you to arrive early (before other patients) or be taken to a room immediately or something like that. It also helps if you have someone to "run interference" for you---either Bill or I would go in first and have a look around and check for dogs etc.
Of course you can't predict whether Murphy might have complications w/ either the amp or the chemo, but assuming all goes well, there are not that many trips to the vet. One for the amp (staying overnight usually), one to get the staples out (often the same visit as the first chemo) and then once every 3rd week for chemo for however many rounds. There are lots and lots of good times just at home w/ you in between.
Denise, Bill and Angel Ellie.
Active 10+ Pyr mix suddenly came up lame with ACL tear in left rear leg. Scheduled for a TPLO but final pre-op x-rays indicated a small suspicious area, possibly OSA, which could have caused the ACL tear. Surgeon opened the knee for TPLO but found soft bone. Biopsy came back positive for OSA. Became a Tripawd 9/18/14. Carbo6 with Cerenia and Fluids. Pain free and living in the moment. Crossed the Bridge on 7/12/15 after probable spread of cancer to her cervical spine. A whole lifetime of memories squeezed into 10 months. Here's her story: Eloise
annapyr said
A couple of ideas. One is ask how he is once separated from you. It may be he is much less stressed once you are out of the picture. Another is to explain clearly to the vet and techs that Murphy has issues. They have seen it all before! So they can make arrangements perhaps for you to arrive early (before other patients) or be taken to a room immediately or something like that. It also helps if you have someone to "run interference" for you---either Bill or I would go in first and have a look around and check for dogs etc.
Denise, Bill and Angel Ellie.
I love these suggestions, thank you Denise!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Well Hoppy Birthday Murphy the Dingo! Cheers to many, many more ahead.
Mom, try not to worry. You know Dingos are tough doggies who bounce back quickly. Sure he might have some behaviorial issues but what dog doesn't? I can almost bet he won't spend the rest of his life at the vet's office, that's just one of those ideas we humans have about treating cancer. It's not like that at all. And remember, chemo is optional. You don't have to do it. Many people opt out because it's not right for their situation (we are one of them). As long as you can live with that decision, life is good for the pack. Murphy is such a young dog though, I can see why you're leaning towards it. We will support you no matter what you decide.
Love the website you made for him! Keep us posted OK?
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Welcome Murphy!!!! I am sorry you find yourself here but you've found the best support in the world. I clicked on your instagram and OMG ... love those ears!!!! What a lucky dog to have found his way into your heart and home!
I'm with the others .. the vet visits aren't as much as one would think (after the initial surgery, of course). Denise offered up some great suggestions and I am sure others will chime in too. My girl didn't mind the vet so much so I don't have anything there.
But keep us posted! We're all here for you!
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
Welcome here
I feel for you and know exactly how you feel, we are at the same stage as you, waiting for a definitive diagnosis. Keep the faith and keep researching
Thanks everyone, for the advice and well wishes! It has been a wild couple of days, ever since hearing that it might be cancer. I should hear from the oncologist tomorrow, but I've done a lot of reading and checking out all of the awesome resources Tripawds offers. The advice and information really helps me feel better about Murphy's health and his future life as a tripawd!
Murphy, became a tripawd on August 17, 2015. Went to the rainbow bridge on July 5, 2016.
jackdog said
Welcome here
I feel for you and know exactly how you feel, we are at the same stage as you, waiting for a definitive diagnosis. Keep the faith and keep researching
Thanks Jackdog! I wish you the same. 🙂
Murphy, became a tripawd on August 17, 2015. Went to the rainbow bridge on July 5, 2016.
mom2shelby said
Welcome Murphy!!!! I am sorry you find yourself here but you've found the best support in the world. I clicked on your instagram and OMG ... love those ears!!!! What a lucky dog to have found his way into your heart and home!I'm with the others .. the vet visits aren't as much as one would think (after the initial surgery, of course). Denise offered up some great suggestions and I am sure others will chime in too. My girl didn't mind the vet so much so I don't have anything there.
But keep us posted! We're all here for you!
Thanks so much! Murphy's ears are amazing. They even sometimes act like dog sonar! lol.
Murphy, became a tripawd on August 17, 2015. Went to the rainbow bridge on July 5, 2016.
jerry said
Well Hoppy Birthday Murphy the Dingo! Cheers to many, many more ahead.Mom, try not to worry. You know Dingos are tough doggies who bounce back quickly. Sure he might have some behaviorial issues but what dog doesn't? I can almost bet he won't spend the rest of his life at the vet's office, that's just one of those ideas we humans have about treating cancer. It's not like that at all. And remember, chemo is optional. You don't have to do it. Many people opt out because it's not right for their situation (we are one of them). As long as you can live with that decision, life is good for the pack. Murphy is such a young dog though, I can see why you're leaning towards it. We will support you no matter what you decide.
Love the website you made for him! Keep us posted OK?
Thank you, thank you, thank you! It wasn't the birthday I expected for Murphy, but he enjoyed it just as much! It's been amazing to read all these stories from other Tripawds, to hear how wonderful their lives are and can be. It makes me much more confident in moving forward with amputation.
Murphy, became a tripawd on August 17, 2015. Went to the rainbow bridge on July 5, 2016.
annapyr said
I feel for you getting this diagnosis for a dog who is not comfortable at the vets or around the other dogs. Our Ellie was the same way. She did not like car rides so trips to the vet just started w/ a lot of stress. And she was unpredictable around other dogs (waiting rooms were so stressful for me!). But she tended to be submissive outside our own home so once we got in an exam room or they took her to the back for treatment, everyone always said she was "so sweet". Yeah, right......A couple of ideas. One is ask how he is once separated from you. It may be he is much less stressed once you are out of the picture. Another is to explain clearly to the vet and techs that Murphy has issues. They have seen it all before! So they can make arrangements perhaps for you to arrive early (before other patients) or be taken to a room immediately or something like that. It also helps if you have someone to "run interference" for you---either Bill or I would go in first and have a look around and check for dogs etc.
Of course you can't predict whether Murphy might have complications w/ either the amp or the chemo, but assuming all goes well, there are not that many trips to the vet. One for the amp (staying overnight usually), one to get the staples out (often the same visit as the first chemo) and then once every 3rd week for chemo for however many rounds. There are lots and lots of good times just at home w/ you in between.
Denise, Bill and Angel Ellie.
Thanks for the kind words! It is hard having a dog that has unpredictable reactions to other dogs. I usually walk him around outside to avoid the waiting room. I am lucky that the vet we went to for the biopsy had a special 'comfort room' where they let us stay for the entire procedure, and as soon as it was done, they brought Murphy back to the room where he woke up, away from other dogs. I'm hoping they are willing to do that moving forward. The other waiting rooms are much closer together, and he usually gets worked up hearing (and smelling) all of the other animals.
Murphy, became a tripawd on August 17, 2015. Went to the rainbow bridge on July 5, 2016.
benny55 said
Hi Murphy!Sorry you have to be here, but under the circumstances there is no better place to be! I know this is gut wrenching news and turns your world upside down. As you co tinue to do research snd move forward with a treatment plan, you will actually start ro feel some relief. We all understand like no others can snd we are right by your side, okay?
Just to let you know right off the bat, we have another member here named Murphy and he's going on TWO YEARS after amputation living life to the fullest!
IF...IF it is osteosarcoma, amputation will be getting rid of a very painful leg and give Murphy the best chance at living life to the fullest! For the time being just keep things chunked down. Do your research about amputation, look at videos of dogs doing so very well on three legs and you can decide about chemo in a couple of weeks.
Murphy does NOT have a timeframe stamped in his butt! Murphy is NOT worrying about tomorrow, or vet visits, or any ole' diagnosis. Murphy is just living in the moment..in the present..soaking up all that wo derful @oving and spoiling you give him. He is soooo lucky to have found his forever home with you! Geez...two years in a shelter! I guess he does get nervous around other dogs snd vets' officees! And I'm surprised he doesn't jave arthritis!
As far as being stressed out at the vet's for surgery, he'll be so high on drugs while he's there he won't care where he is...he'll be feeling just "fine"!. One thing you might do, if you arent already, is make every vet visit mean going through a drive thru and getting a cheesburger! Also give him a big ole' Merrick bone to gnaw on in the car . Besides, most Oncos have really great vet techs who know how to calm down nervous dogs and actually make them seem like they look forward to going to the vets.
Any extended pain free time is QUALITY time when he's with a human who obviously loves him as much as you do!. You are giving Murphy a chance at more loving...more spoiling... more treats...more tummy rubs....more playtime...more steak and ice cream! Vet visits are just a teeny weeny interruption from a fun filled life!
If your surgeon thinks Murphy is a good candidate and all his work up looks good, that's always an important part of the equation. It IS major surgery and it does have unforseen riskx. We've seen it happen with members in the sifpte..rare, but it does happen.
For me, I felt like I had to give my Happy Hannah a chance. She was loving her life and just was not ready to pack it all in. I k ew I woukd regret it if I didn't try.
Recovery was no picnic for about three weeks for her. I was wo xering what in the world I had do e TO my dog. But once her sparkle started coming back, it came back bigger and brighter than before! I knew then I had done this FOR my dog! Happy Hannah sailed through four rounds of carboplatin and we had THE most gloriously fun time laughing and loving for over o e year and two months! And in doggy hears, that's over seven years of being spoiled rotten!!
When you can, we'd love ro see pictures of your sweet boy. He sounds like he's got a lot of living left to do!!
Stay connected to us okay? We'll help in anyway we can.
Sending lots of love to you and Murphy!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle too!
Thank you Sally! It's incredibly comforting hearing from other pawrents, and being reassured that Murphy's life will be different, but still happy. I really appreciate your advice and words, it's helping relieve many of my fears.
Here's a picture of my sweet, funny, big-eared Murphy! (wearing his favorite tie)
Murphy, became a tripawd on August 17, 2015. Went to the rainbow bridge on July 5, 2016.
OMG ... those ears!!!! My new pooch has big ears that I swear she hears things I don't hear ... but nothing like those! I love it! 
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
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