Tripawds Three Legged Dog & Cat Forum Archives

Hi all,

If you are here you’re probably just like me, worried anxious and looking for answers. I just recently had to make the decision to amputate my dogs front leg due to trauma (compound fractures that wouldn’t heal) “ Lucky Dude” ya, that’s his name..for real. I took him to VRCC ER where they did administer pain meds and a splint. We knew then it wouldn’t heal on its own. The next morning I contacted his primary vet as well as the surgical team at VRCC. The orthopedic and surgery department was extremely helpful, knowledgeable and immensely supportive of the very hard decision I would have to make: try and repair ( 8-12 weeks recovery with a high chance of failure) or amputation . Dr Freund was the best in helping me understand the details and spent a lot of time doing just that! She is extremely talented, of course, and gave us the the real picture. Once we elected to go for the amputation she and the staff were so very good and the communication was excellent. ( listening to concerns about medication, reactions to anesthesia, opioids etc) we were informed every step of the way! Many proactive calls, and just a great experience. I couldn’t have asked for more. And yes, Lucky Dude is recovering even better than anyone expected. 

I hope this post might be helpful for anyone who is struggling with the same situation.

Hugs and sloppy dog kisses! 
Kim and Lucky Dude