We live on a small farm and our dog had been missing for three weeks.  I had scoured the countryside and checked the humane society frequently trying to find him.  Well, he showed up last night missing 3/4 of a front leg.  We feel pretty sure he got caught in a trap, fence, etc.  We couldn't find any other injuries to show that he had been attacked.  We have been on the verge of bankruptcy the last three years and just heard from a local vet this morning that the amputation surgery would be around $500.  I'm trying to find out if there is a place that does provides these services at a charitable rate.  We would be more than happy to pay something but with three kids and the holidays, we just don't have $500.  Do you have any advice or direction for us?  We are located in central KY.  Thanks in advance for any advice!

Thank you!!

His name is Rascal and we are working on trying to find a vet who will work with us on the cost.  We were hit a few weeks ago and our car was totaled, so we are just in a rough patch right now.  I'm just so glad to have him back home!  The more we have looked at his leg, we believe it was some kind of a hunter's trap - it's too clean of an edge.  I feel bad for him, but he seems to be functioning like he has already adapted to it.  Just seems tired from the ordeal he has been through (but not too tired to chase the cats away from their food!)

Thanks again for the advice!

Three weeks!  What a nightmare!  But home in time for Christmas, what a blessing.

I just recently read a story about a dog that had two left legs chopped off by a train.  Mom picked him up and carried him to the shed, thinking he was dead and they would bury him later.  Well, no rush, the poor guy is dead and life is busy.  Lo and behold, Little Pup wakes up and licks his wounds clean and takes care of them himself.  The hired hand (or someone, I'm winging it here) discovers him and brings him food and water.  Within days, he's up and around and just shows up at the house, looking for fun.

Sounds like Rascal, one tough doggie.

Thanks again for all the encouraging words!  Now that this is starting to settle in a little and the shock is wearing off, we are starting to think more clearly.  It is so encouraging to hear of others with tripawds and read your stories.  I have been in tears numerous times.  Amazing how animals can touch us!

Our Rascal seems to be doing better this morning.  Definitely perked up some from yesterday.  Jumped up and ran to the door to go out when I went to check on him.  Went out and laid out in the field in the sun.  When I couldn't get him to come in, I decided to freshen up his water.  When I came back, his brother and the stray that seems to have adopted us, was nose to nose with Rascal and his brother was next to him too.  So that made me feel better!

Also spoke with a vet this morning who has scheduled his surgery for next Fri.  Trying to give him time for the anitbiotics to take effect and to strengthen him up a little.  She is being very gracious and charging us next to nothing!  God bless her!

One question I have is that he was strictly an outdoor dog before.  I'm now concerned about leaving him out after his recovery.  I guess we could bring him in at night?  Wondered if anyone else out there has an outdoor tripod?

So thankful that I found this site!  Wishing all of you and your furbabies a Merry Christmas!