Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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I'm looking for answers. My 9 year old golden doodle was just diagnosed with osteosarcoma in his shoulder. They suggested amputation but sadly he also recently suffered 2 back torn ACLs. If we were to amputate could he survive with his current state? Any advice is greatly appreciated.
Hi Paxton's mom, welcome. Your future posts won't need approval so post away.
Our Fairy Vet Mother Dr. Pam should be here soon to help share her insight. Meanwhile, are the cruciate tears repaired? What does your vet think about your dog's ability to bounce back on three legs? And did you see an orthopedic specialist yet for a second opinion?
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
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Sorry for the diagnosis, but hang in there. Do the research like you are and you'll know the best path forward for your sweet pup. Popping with a couple of questions while waiting for beloved Dr pam to reply.
How long ago for the two ACLs? How far apart? And tompiggyback on Jerry's question, what was the remedy?
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!
How big is this dog? Were the knees repaired? My dog Tazzie was a 190# Mastiff when she lost her RF leg to osteosarcoma and she also had both her knees repaired for torn ACLs. If I remember right it had been at least 1 year since her second ACL surgery when she needed the amputation so she was already healed but I had concerns since she was so large. I ended up keeping her in the hospital a few nights to let her get stronger after her surgery and she did well.
Unless this is a 100# GoldenDoodle with recent ACL injuries that were never repaired I think your dog could do quite well. Definitely ask your vet since they know your dog best. Since Golden Retrievers seem to have a higher risk of malignant cancer I would also make sure that they take a 3 view chest xray to look for lung metastasis prior to amputation.
Pam
Hi there,
Koko’s page is on here, my 80lb mastiff mix. She’s 12 and tore both ACLs a few years ago. They healed without surgery. She underwent amputation in December for front limb osteosarcoma. She is doing well I have posted a video of her running and hiking. However, from compensating she had an arthritic flare in both her knees about 3 weeks post amputation. Your dog will be ok with the right rehab program and medication regimen. I keep medication around for muscle spasms and flare ups she can take as needed or if she over does a walk/ play session. She also goes for water therapy, gets acupuncture and laser treatments. She continues to improve each day. Hope that helps 😊
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