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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Holly had a front leg amputation just under 4 weeks ago. She is s doing wonderfully so I wanted to say thanks to the forum community. The first week or 2 were very hard for us (2nd guessing the decision to amputate, the reality of her missing a leg was startling and sad). And I was anxious everyday about how she was doing. I remebered during that time a post I had read that said the first 2 weeks were the hardest and I kept coming back to those words to help me normalize the experience and calm myself. The posts are such a good resource and for anyone facing these surgeries I hope you find guidance and comfort as I have.Â
While she is doing very well life is not the same for her. It is sad seeing such a vibrant active dog lose the freedom to "fly like the wind". That is the reality. But she is happy and enjoying the early spring weather. And that is lovely to watch and share with her. I wish the same for all of your friends.Â
Merrill thank you, that is really sweet! We're glad you found comfort and confidence here, and that Holly is doing so well. If there is anything at all we can do please don't hesitate to ask OK? And we would love to hear more about her so please feel free to add images and share more of her story whenever you're able. Thanks again.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
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Hi Merrill and Holly! Yes, please share more about your sweet Holly when you can!
And remember, four weeks is still early in recovery! In fact, some Vets say it takes about one month for dogs to finally start to adequately adjust to three legs. There's no reason for your Holly not to enjoy "running like the wind" again 🙂 Sure, she shouldn't cover a lot of distance without resting, but that's not something she's spending anytime analyzing. Holly's just getting on with life not feeling "deprived" or like she's "missing out"!
Sounds like Holly is doing great 🙂 AND, it still continues to get better! Yes! Really!
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!
What a great update! Â And do give her time. Â She is still learning her new abilities. Â I was thrilled the first time Otis, as a tripawd, and Tess fell into their familiar pattern of pack hunting to chase a squirrel. Â They were fast, and operated as a perfect team. Â Of course, the squirrel got away, but they always did before the amputation too!Â
Otis - 106 pound lab/Dane mix, lost his right front leg to osteosarcoma on Febuary 9, 2016.  Four rounds of carboplatin completed in April, 2016.  Lung mets August 25, 2016.  Said goodbye too soon on September 4, 2016.  Lost his adopted sister, Tess, suddenly on October 9, 2016. likely due to hemangiosarcoma. Â
Wherever they are, they are together.
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