Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi,
Butch is a 7 year old chihuaha and a front leg amputee who I adopted 2 years ago. He lost his leg through an abusive home when he was a puppy. Up until this point, it has never held him back from enjoying life.
Yesterday the vet confirmed a cruciate tear in his left hind leg. This is the same side as his amputation, so balance is near impossible for him without help, he needs carrying everywhere, help going to the bathroom etc.
I'm so happy this site exists. I've read through lots of helpful responses regarding cruciate injuries already and recovery. He is on rest and meds for a week before our next appointment where I'm hoping the vet will offer to book his surgery if he is no better.
So why am i posting... selfishly its more for me. I feel like I've failed him, and that his quality of life will inevitably get worse to the point where a difficult decision will have to be made over the next year. He is so active and loves running around and It's so hard to watch him lying around/frustrated and sad. I was already quite anxious about his wellbeing generally because of his amputation but this has taken it to another level. I feel overwhelmed by what's ahead for him and for me. Not sure how to set my head straight so I can be there for him 100%.
Thanks for listening
Chloe
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Hi Chloe,
Thanks for posting, sorry for the delay getting it approved. Now that you're a member your future ones won't need approval so post away. You are not selfish for posting, not at all. We say around here that Tripawds exists more for the people than the pets, because we humans need emotional support way more than they do.
I'm sorry about Butch's situation. Ugh! If you've dug around here, you know that remaining leg surgeries in Tripawds aren't all that uncommon. It happens, and it's fixable, totally.
Your sweet guy is a baby in terms of dog years, he's got lots of miles ahead and his quality of life will be back to what it was after recovery is over. Yes, it's hard seeing him so down, but it's a temporary thing. Try to focus on the big picture, after recovery. He and you will get there!
One tip (Ok a couple): you really want to be sure the surgeon is experienced at doing this surgery on a 3-legger, and you really want a good rehab therapy team on your side to help with recovery. Remember that the Tripawds Foundation can pay for your first rehab visit , so please take advantage of the program.
Keep us posted on how this upcoming visit goes OK?
Not sure how to set my head straight so I can be there for him 100%.
You are definitely in the right place for support from people who understand all the uncertainty and fear you are feeling right now. And we are EXPERTS at helping you screw your head on straight so you can feel empowered and confident!!!
As Jerry said, cruciate tears are not uncommon AND, they are also not unco in four leggers! I speak from experience. I have a four legger who has gone through cruciate surgery and I have a tripawd who has gone through TWO cruciate surgeries, one on each back leg. Knocking on wood, both dogs are thriving!!!!!🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞 A friend of one has a two year old four legger recovering from cruciate repair adding very well.
So no, you have not failed your sweet Butch in any way, shape or form. You have SAVED Butch from life in a shelter and abusive home with little odds of being adopted. You are giving Butch a life of happiness and joy and love the likes of which has never known. You clearly adore him!♥️
As Jerry said, what you are witnessing TEMPORARILY is Butch with a bum leg that hurts. Once he has surgery and gets through recovery he will be 100% back to normal. Sure, you'll want to monitor his activity a bit and not let him jump up jn the air where he would land on his two back legs (like playing fetch and jumping up in the air to catch a frisbee)., etc. Also you can get a consult with a Rehabilitation Specialist and the Tripawds Foundation will pay for the first visit. They can show you some stretches and range of motion excercises to help in recovery, as well as ways to keep hi fit and strong as a tripawd
.........his quality of life will inevitably get worse to the point where a difficult decision will have to be made over the next year
NOT AT ALL!!! There is zero reason why your little Tripawd Warrior shouldn't live a full life into his senior years! Being a "tripawd" wouldn't have any negative bearing on his natural life span. Sure, you'll want to provide Butch with supplements to keep his joints strong. And yes, he may, or may not, develop arthritis as he ages. That can be treated with things like Rimadyl or all sorts of alternatives.
As Jerry said, you'll want an Orthopedic Surgeon who is familiar with cruciate repair. There are different forms of the surgery. The surgeon can go over the best approach for your Butch. Did they do xrays confirm the tear? Is it partial or full? The fact that the Vet wanted to "wait" before going forward with aurgerymade me think it was maybe a "minor" tear?? Just curious why the delay
Okay deep breaths. Remember thewayhe is feeling right now is temporary, okay?
STAY CONNECTED! You are not alone, okay? ♥️ We look forward to hearing about all the adventures you and Butch willie sharing for years to come!😎
(((((((((((((((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!
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