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Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat

Tripawds is your home to learn how to care for a three legged dog or cat, with answers about dog leg amputation, and cat amputation recovery from many years of member experiences.

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Advice on eating and energy level!
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Member Since:
20 September 2017
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20 September 2017 - 6:38 pm
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Hello!

Our dog moose is a 7 year old German short haired pointer and just got his front leg amputated 12 days ago. He is still acting very tired and is constantly laying down right after he comes in from outside. He will eat reluctantly about 12-16 oz ,if it is hand fed, of chicken, liver, or ground beef but will turn his nose up at dog food. We are just very worried about him because he is usually crazy and very lively and always ate like a horse. Has anyone else had similar experiences or can give advice!?

Thank You!!

On The Road


Member Since:
24 September 2009
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20 September 2017 - 7:05 pm
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Welcome and best wishes for Moose! Lack of appetite could indicate pain, and he may be overdoing it.

It is still pretty early in Moose's rehabilitation. Our best advice is to consult with  certified rehab vet/tech for a professional evaluation and exercises you can do to help rebuild strength. (FYI: Walks and running around do not build strength, only stamina.) Visit a CCRT or CCRP and the Tripawds Foundation will even pay for your first consultation from the Maggie Moo Fund for Tripawd Rehab. You will also find many helpful tips, videos, and podcasts about the amount and type of exercise recommended for Tripawds in Loving Life On Three Legs .

Please keep us posted, your future forum posts will not require moderation.

Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet

Virginia







Member Since:
22 February 2013
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20 September 2017 - 8:07 pm
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It's still early in recovery from MAJOR surgery!   

Yep, ditto Admin on possible pain and possibly overdoing it early on.

What's Moose's activity level been like right after the amp.?  No jumping around, no stairs,  no walks, etc, eight?  He should only be taking potty breaks and then rest, rest, rest.  

What kind of pain meds is he on and how often?

Most dogs are given Tramadol, Gabapentin, Rimadyl and an a antibiotic for "approxmately" two weeks.  Some dogs start tapering off sooner, some need them in some form a little longer.

Depending on the meds he's taking and the dose amounts, you can talk to the Vet about reducing the dose if you think they are making him lethargic.  Let the Vet know what's going on first though.  Sometimes a good dose of fluids helps perk up the appetite.

Drinking, peeing, pooping okay?   Incision look okay?   No sign of infection or fever?  Any signs of pain?  Was osteo the reason for the amp?    When do the stitches come out?

As far as food, basically feed him anythi g he will est during recocery.  Cheeseburger, cheese pizza crust, eggs and bacon, steak, chicken, etc.   Another thi g you might trynis having someone come over thst he likes.  Have them knock excitedly in the door and vring him some goodies!   See if he perks up.

Update us when you can.  We'll all be cheering for Moose!   Recovery doesn't last forever...it just feels like it!

Hugs!

Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie 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!

On The Road


Member Since:
24 September 2009
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20 September 2017 - 9:01 pm
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Yep, the pain medication can do a number on new Tripawds. If you've been hiding it in his food, that can really be a turn-off too. We published these articles about appetite, medication and recovery, they might have some tips that help you and Moose:

Get Your Dog Eating After Amputation Surgery

How to Hide Pet Medication (and Get Your Tripawd Eating)

And ditto on seeing a rehab therapist. It's SO helpful for any new Tripawd and the best part is the Tripawds Foundation will even pay for your first rehab visit !

Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet

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