Hi everyone!

I've been reading through some of the site, and some of these forums and I know I have a lot more to read, but I thought I'd just post a little here and see what some of you seasoned tripawd parents had to say! I've been reading some stories and responses and I am encouraged and full of love just seeing the support and resources that are available.

So, at the beginning of the pandemic, I had to suddenly move, went through a break up, and ended up in a small basement apartment on long island, and knew I was going to be here for a bit-and for the last 2 years I have been without a dog for various reasons, and I knew it was time to start looking.  I reached out to multiple rescues, I was looking more for a smaller, small-medium sized dog, adult, who was good with kids (i have an 8 year old) and who's temperament was more laid back.  I applied for 8 different dogs.  No response.  Then all of a sudden, on my facebook feed appears Tryla (I had been following rescues in CT where i had previously lived prior to moving).  And I knew she was it.  She was my soul mate.  She was a 55 pound pit (mix?), a tripawd, (front right leg missing), and I knew nothing else about her.  I immediately reached out to the rescue and we went through the interview process, I asked how she was with kids, other dogs, other medical problems, etc etc etc.  I did a little research about tripawds, (but not enough honestly), and a week later, she was here.  She came from a kill shelter in georgia and the rescue I got her through was trying to get her somewhere safe.  

Upon arrival, she bonded to me immediately.  As well as my 8 year old daughter.  But we have struggled. She is not okay with other dogs.  Fearful of loud noises, she recently had to have emergency anal gland surgery due to perpetual infections and probability of impending rupture.  She does not like to go for walks, she will run around in the (unfenced) yard on a lead/tether for a few minutes but tires out very quickly.  We are slowly but surely working on the behavior issues with a behaviorist and the other medical issues with the vet.  Its going to take a while with her.  And I am willing to do whatever it takes (as long as its safe for me and my daughter and the people and animals around us) to help this dog.  But how can I help her go on walks?  

Also, currently? My financial resources are limited and have been strained by the medical emergencies she has been plagued with along with other issues going on in the world.  Is there a way to help her walk better?  Maybe with some sort of sling or harness where I can bear more of her weight?  (while still having some degree of control in case another dog walks by)?  

Also, just ordered the socks for traction .  Had been trying the area rugs but she has severe separation anxiety so that causes problems when I leave her (and she has destroyed a few crates-working on it!!)

I can see beyond her issues. 

It turns out that she was most likely hit by a car (or so the vet thinks) as she also has jaw and teeth damage on the same side which has resulted in some neurological issues.  Also, he said whoever did the amputation did a terrible job and didnt do it at the joint, left a nub, and didnt put a pad in between the bone and the skin.

She was also over-bred and most likely sexually abused-which has resulted in a lot of her behavior issues and also her anal gland issues.  

This dog has been through so much and yet has SO much love to give.  You can see it in how gentle and loving she is with both me and my daughter.  You can see it in her eyes.  We both love her so much.  

Anything that anyone has to suggest to help her would be welcomed!  I very much appreciate it (in advance).

So grateful for stumbling upon this site. 

Hope everyone is staying well in all the craziness.

-Casey and Tryla