Join the forum discussion on this topic!Are you thinking of taking the big step to adopt a three-legged dog? If so, thank you! Tripawd dogs (and cats too, for that matter) have lots to teach us about being resilient and living life to the fullest.
You won’t regret bringing a Tripawd into your life, but before you do, take the time to learn what to expect when you adopt a three-legged animal.
Here’s one great way to find out: check out this fantastic article “Should I Adopt a Tripod Dog?” It’s written by author Janelle Leeson. We are so hoppy she included us in this helpful story she wrote for the Adopt a Pet website.
Highlights of What to Expect When You Adopt a Three-Legged Dog
In the article, Janelle does a great job describing what it’s like to have a Tripawd in your life.
Three-legged pups are typically on the same vet schedule as their four-legged friends, unless their leg was removed due to an underlying disease that needs further treatments, such as cancer. As your tripod ages, they may experience joint pain sooner than dogs with four legs and are generally more susceptible to joint and cartilage injuries.
The Adopt a Pet article is focused on dogs, but the basic concepts of caring for an amputee animal are the same, including things we talk about a lot in our Tripawds Discussion Forums:
- Amputee pets don’t know they’re different.
- Front and rear-leg amputee pets have different challenges.
- Tripawds will try to keep up with the pack (don’t let them!).
- Adopting a Tripawd means re-thinking fun things to do.
- Keeping your Tripawd slim is the best thing you can do (better than any joint supplement!)
- For amputee dogs, shorter, more frequent walks are best.
- Tripawd cats do better when they can’t jump to or from high places.
- Slippery floors are a Tripawd’s worst enemy.
- Tripawds are prone to arthritis and joint stress at a younger age.
- Visiting a rehabilitation therapist will educate you about your Tripawd’s abilities, challenges, and injury prevention tactics.
Want to get into more details? Check out the Adopt a Pet Article, and our resources below.
And don’t forget to post in our “Beyond Cancer” Forum topic topic to tell us about your adopted three-legged hero!