After much careful thought and consideration we have made the decision to surgically remove his dozen bladder stones, amputate the leg and hope and pray for the best outcome.  It is extreme, but he can live with three legs and I just don't want to gamble on the high probability of the wound not closing or it coming back in in the same location with a vengence.  He hates having a cone on his head and repeated treatments/surgeries would make his life miserable.  I just don't want to do that to him.

I work for a department that supports individuals with developmental disabilities.  Making the decision to "disable" (for lack of a better term) my dog was not made lightly.  It took forever for me to make the painful decision, but people and animals live long happy lives with a disability and I wanted to give him that option.

For a number of years I also cared for a parent with Alzheimers before making the painful decision to put her into a nursing home.  I know all too well what the words "quality of life" mean.  I believe he would have a far better life adapting to three legs vs. nursing a wound that could bring endless months of recovery that may lead to amputation anyway.  I'm also aware it may come back somewhere else, but it's a risk we're willing to take.

This weekend I brought "adaptive equipment" stuff for him to help him through the transition.  I got an orthopedic bed that is easy for him to get in and out of, a lambswool lined harness (used in cars) to assist him with getting up/doing stairs and some dog socks that have rubber on the bottom to put on his front right paw (to avoid slipping).  I also bought a raised food dish (so he doesn't have to lean down so much) and changed his food to Dr. Harveys Miracle Dog Food (the testimonials are true, I'm amazed at how much he loves it).

I know some folks may not agree with my decision, but hope there will be support available.  His surgeries are scheduled for tomorrow.  I'm not a very religious person, but I do pray he will come out ok and hope you will keep him in your prayers as well.  I will post pictures (both pre and post surgery) once I get them from my daughter.

Thank you so much for your kindness and support.

I'm glad to hear you have reached your decision and are moving forward with everything. It's hard to know what to do when you have such different options, but it sounds like you made the best decision for him.

I hope the surgery goes well. Will be thinking of Willy tomorrow. Once he gets through the rough recovery period, I'm sure he'll begin amazing you.

All the best,
Jackie, Abby's mom