Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi, my Pomeranian was attacked by an Alsatian three weeks ago now, as a result he lost his left back leg, although he is doing ok at the minute I am worried about his front left leg as when he gets up or walks it seems to be bending outwards, I know he is probably doing this for balance but I’m worried he will damage this leg, also when he tries to get up he sometimes collapses back down, any advice on how to keep his remaining back leg strong, we are limiting his treats so he can lose a bit of weight advised by the vet, thank you for any advice given for Madigan 🐾
Hi Madigan and folks, welcome! I'm so sorry about that horrible accident! Glad to know he's getting around alright. Keep in mind 3 weeks is not a long time, he will need time to adapt and get strong. But the good news is there is a LOT you can do to help him get there.
Yes, weight loss is critical. Every extra pound on a dog equals five pounds on a human, so the more he can get to his ideal weight the better he will move.
When a dog loses a rear leg they lose 50% of their ability to climb up stairs, run, and propel themselves forward. Yes, he is using his front leg for balance and to compensate. But you can help him with better habits, by having him evaluated by a canine rehab therapist. These experts can let you know how to strengthen and improve his stamina. Hint: it's not about strengthening the legs, but the core and back muscles. The best part is that Tripawds Foundation can pay for your first rehab visit so you have nothing to lose! If you want help finding a therapist please let us know.
Meanwhile, how is your house set up? If your floors are slippery, adding traction will make a huge difference. Keeping his activity scaled back and not allowing him to jump off high surfaces is also going to reduce his risk of injury.
Thank you so much for your advice, I will take everything into consideration, we have already put runners everywhere as we do have wooden flooring also dog gate for the stairs and I will also look into rehab for him, oh and also bought him a stroller so he can take a rest when walking, if he wasn’t spoiled already he certainly will be now 🐾
Geez, so sorry this happened tom your sweet Madigan.
You are doing an excellent job of trying to provide everything Madigan needs to stay strong and fit. Jerry gave you stellar adviceqnd insight as usual.
Many have used strollers as a tool to keep sogs engaged and enjoying their walks....yet making sure they don't overdo and tire too easily. The gait of a tripawd is faster than "normal" as they need the momentum for balance, etc. So being able to recognize when it's time ro hop in the stroller is great. If a dog sits down on a walk he's already overdone it.
if he wasn’t spoiled already he certainly will be now [Image Can Not Be Found]
Yes, tripawds are so darn cute it is impossible not to spoil at a level you never thought possible.
Keep is posted on how rhings are going.
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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