Holly is a right rear leg amputee. She's much smaller than Lincoln (about 30 pounds)… but she's done amazingly well since her surgery 2+ months ago. Her vet told us that rear amps usually have it a little easier than front amps since more weight is carried by the front legs. I had no idea how she would go to the bathroom… that's the thought that really undid me while she was undergoing surgery. But she figured it all out on her own, much to my amazement. Amazing is truly the word that comes to mind as I look back on her progress. And I hope that is what you'll find with Lincoln – that he will amaze you with what he can still do once he recovers! :-)
Some very helpful hints that the wonderful people here gave us when Holly came home included raising her food and water bowls and using runners on hardwood floors so she wouldn't slip and fall. Raising the bowls made a big difference for Holly – she didn't have to work so hard balancing to eat. And the runners helped her to get around more easily to all of her favorite spots.
I rented a bunch of movies for the first few days she was home, and we basically just sat together and she slept while I watched them. I think it helped her to have me right there in the beginning, without too many distractions. After about the second day she didn't seem to need the constant companionship as much – she was happy to be on her various beds around the house resting. But all dogs are different, and you'll know best what Lincoln needs or doesn't need from you.
We'll keep Lincoln in our hearts and prayers these next few weeks as he recovers from surgery. And we'll keep fingers and paws crossed that all goes well, and that this summer is an awesome Summer of Lincoln!
Hugs,
Holly and Holly's mom

Welcome home, Lincoln! We're so glad to hear you're already up and about so well! Remember to take it easy these first few days to help build your strength. And great job on amazing your mom! Best wishes for a great recovery…
Hugs,
Holly and Holly's mom

Welcome home Lincoln!! 

Hope that tail gets up to speed really fast. 

Mary and Cemil

Hi Everyone – Wow…bad week for me, great week for Lincoln.  I am on the east coast for business. Lincoln is home with Dad, and evidently doing FANTASTIC. He seems to have no concerns that he is minus one. The hubs says that he is already using his head to counter-balance when he goes potty. He wants to run, but isn't allowed to, obviously. I will be home tomorrow and really can't wait to see him.

My side note is only that my stupid finger got infected so I had to go back to the ER here in Virginia and have been unwilling to try to type as my finger has been ON FIRE. I can only imagine what Lincoln feels like. Antibiotics have helped, and I can now type with minor pain.

I will update when I get home and have a better sense of our status.

When should chemo start?

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!

Lincoln and his Mom