Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Our incredible black lab, Atlas, had a front left leg amputation on April 16th due to bone cancer. We have reviewed a lot of the information on the Tripawd platform as we navigate our unique experience with this. We are 11 days post surgery and he has an appointment on Thursday to have the stitches out and get the first round of chemo. I’m asking here for input on the incision as it heals. Over the last couple day there is some red at the base of the site but it does not seem tender. He does not seem to even notice when I’m checking in. Is a late bruise common, is this part of healing? No fluid, no smell, hoping not infection. Thanks.
(trying to load photo but having a hard time with it)
Hey Gordon, it would be helpful if you could share a photo or two. Here are instructions for adding images . Let me know if you'd like help. Thanks!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Ah thanks! I'm curious to see what Dr. Pam has to say. Stay tuned....
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Yes bruising is still possible due to deep muscle oozing. Your vet may choose to keep the sutures in longer and may add an antibiotic. A seroma is still possible as well so your vet may try to tap some fluid from deeper in the incision.
Pam
Thank you for the info. The brightness has reduced overnight so hopefully healing continues. He just whimpered and whined all night again (last night was restful at least). We see the vet for the two week follow up in 2 days (Thursday).
tazziedog said
Yes bruising is still possible due to deep muscle oozing.
Oh now that's a new phrase to me. So what you're saying is that somewhere way inside the muscle, the oozing / bruising is just now coming to the surface?
Thanks for your help Dr. Pam!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Yes sometimes as these deeper layers are healing they will bleed just a little so the bruising does not show up right away. Alternatively a deeper suture could pull loose or the dog could fall and then new bleeding could occur.
Pam
Thanks so much. The site is looking “better” today - not as bright, seems to be healing along the edges. A day or so after getting home he laid on the incision side and yiped terrible trying to pull over and get up. Wonder if he pulled the stitch enough it bled. The deep bruise could be why he continued to periodically yipe just terrible when re-situating. Had a better nights rest last night and we see the vet tomorrow morning. This forum is such a resource during this transition. Thank you for taking the time to share information.
Thanks for explaining Dr. Pam, we always learn so much from you. I'll try to remember this the next time a situation like this comes up.
Gordon, I'll bet that he did do something on that first day that caused it. Poor pup! I'm glad Atlas is doing better, and hope your next appointment goes well.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
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