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My name is Nancy and I'm new to this forum. I went to my local Humane Society today and was charmed by a chocolate poodle-mix dog that is "tripawd." He is a year and a half old and is missing his rear left leg. The reason it is missing is not known to the shelter, as this is the condition in which he was found. He is somewhat underweight but otherwise healthy. He gets around fine, and appears to be a happy, well adjusted dog.
I really hope my questions don't sound ignorant, but I'm interested in knowing whether 3-legged dogs are more prone to certain health and/or "life" problems. Are there things like this that I should know? i.e. greater chance of arthritis? greater chance of being a victim to aggressive dogs?
I have no experience whatsoever with rescuing a dog with any sort of special circumstances, so I am very interested in your advice, comments and experiences.
He is SO cute. I think the only thing I would try to find out is if they can do any testing to see if it was from cancer or some medical issue. If it is you need to know that so you know if he needs further treatment. I think if it is from an injury you shouldn't worry too much. They can live happy healthy lives with 3 legs. Sounds like he has already adjusted pretty well.
Hope it works out! That is so great giving him a 2nd chance to a happy life!
Heidi and Titan
1:34 pm 4 October 2008
tazziedog
Moderator
posts 1188
3
I 'll bet that this dog had some sort of trauma that caused him to be a tripawd. Due to his age and breed, cancer is unlikely. Since he is not a very large dog, you shouldn't have to worry too much about arthritis in his front legs, although a glucosamine / chondroiten supplement wouldn't hurt. The most important thing is to keep him lean, since extra weight will put more stress on his remaining limbs and spine.
Good luck!
Pam and Tazzie
4:06 am 6 October 2008
lalla
Member
posts 173
4
What a gorgeous chap! I'm sure you'll get along very well together.
8:49 am 6 October 2008
nwillner
Member
posts 7
5
Well, I did it. I now have a new 3 legged best friend in the house. His name is Samson and he is the sweetest, most affectionate, playful boy. I am totally smitten!!
Here are 2 videos that I posted on my website. (I host a social networking site for people who have poodle-mix dogs, called Doodle World) Any dog-lover is welcome to join though — so everyone — please feel free to join!! It's a really fun place to meet other dog lovers. We also have a "rescued doodles" group for those of you who rescued your tripawds.
I posted a lot more pics on the site if you're interested. Here's a link to my doodleworld page.
Here's a video hosted on Photobucket if you'd prefer. The cream colored girl is Isabelle, my 4-legged daughter.
10:44 pm 6 October 2008
jerry
The Rainbow Bridge
Team Tripawds
posts 6961
6
nwillner said:
Here are 2 videos that I posted on my website.
Thanks for the links! They both pointed to your profile page so we've pointed readers there for you.
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