Tripawds Three Legged Dog & Cat Forum Archives
Tripawds is your home to learn how to care for a three legged dog or cat. Explore 17+ years of forum archives for stories and answers to questions about dog leg amputation, and cat amputation recovery. Enjoy fresh discussion and connect with members in the new Tripawds Support Circle.
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11:17 am
27 September 2021
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My best buddy Atticus had his rear left leg amputated yesterday morning, due to osteosarcoma. Atticus is a 10 year old Catahoula mix that we adopted 3 years ago. He is the best dog I’ve ever had. I can’t describe all the cool stuff he’s done, but to name a few: he’s traveled across the country with our family, helped train first responders how to deal with pets in a disaster, was in our wedding, helped me escape a flash flood, and once ate an entire pumpkin cake.
He stayed overnight at the clinic, and got IV pain meds through this morning. They are transitioning him to oral pain meds over the course of the day. He did eat some breakfast this morning, and some pill pockets last night. When I last spoke to the vet, he was not walking yet. They said he seems very nervous and tenses up, and he might not walk until he sees us and knows he’s going home.
My question for everyone is- how did you get through that first look at your tripawd, and that first night? I’m feeling wracked with guilt at the moment that he is is hurt and scared because of a decision I made, on top of my grief about his osteosarcoma. I’m really worried about him walking- at what point after surgery did your tripawds start getting up?
~Megan
4:15 pm
Team Tripawds
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25 September 2009
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meganandatticus said
My question for everyone is- how did you get through that first look at your tripawd, and that first night? I’m feeling wracked with guilt at the moment that he is is hurt and scared because of a decision I made, on top of my grief about his osteosarcoma. I’m really worried about him walking- at what point after surgery did your tripawds start getting up?
Hi Megan and Atticus, welcome. Your future posts won't require approval so post away.
Atticus sounds like a pawsome dog. What adventures that boy has had so far. And that's so wonderful you adopted an older pup! 
I'm sorry you are dealing with cancer and amputation though, it's such a tough thing to go through. But that's why we are here! Lean on us. We understand your feelings and fears! You are not alone. And your adventures are just beginning. Atticus is going to show you that he is stronger than you realize. Prepare to be amazed! Catahoulas are a pretty tough breed, just wait and see how he makes the most of life on 3!
Of course you feel guilty. Making that decision when they don't really know any better is hard. I felt guilty too! But you know what? Atticus isn't going to feel grief about his missing leg. He's going to feel BETTER once that bad leg is gone and recovery is over!
Your vet won't let him come home until he gets up and around on his own. During the first few days he may be wobbly but that's mainly because of his pain medications. If they're doing their job, he's probably wonky and dancing with pink elephants 
. It's only temporary! As long as you have plenty of traction
around your home, he will figure it out without much help mos tlikely.
The best way to manage your fears is to educate yourself. You're already doing that by being here! Learn about life on 3 in our What to Expect articles . Prepare by checking out Jerry's Required Reading List . Stay busy by reviewing our Tripawds Recovery Shopping List . And above all else, keep a pawsitive attitude. Atticus sounds like a sensitive dog underneath that tough exterior. You want to make sure you stay as upbeat and hopeful as possible, so that he can reflect that right back.
Please keep us posted on how he's doing! I'm usually in the Tripawds Chat during business hours so stop by anytime or call the Tripawds Helpline too.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
7:26 pm
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Bucketeers
22 February 2013
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Already in love with Atticus! ♥️. Such a sweet avatar picture.
Not much I can add to Jerry's informative response.
Keep in mind Atticus just went through MAJOR surgery, all while trying to adapt to three legs and all while shaking off anesthesia and strong hospital meds.
Atticus is GRATEFUL that bum leg is gone and he has been given a chance at a qu pain free life!!! Nothing to feel guilty about st all!!
Don't even look at the inc site when you go to pick him up. He just wants to see your hapoy smiling face tell him he's a good boy and he's going home!! Put forth a strong and confident energy and that will help reassure Atticus all is well.
Sray connected and know that we are here fornyoj to help you navi thru recovery and on to celebrating all his victories as a handsome tripawd!!!
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!