Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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I'm not sure why I'm posting this, as we all know our family has suffered several losses in recent weeks. Maybe it is a release for me, maybe I'm hoping in some way it can help Brett, Patty, Kami, Denise, Haley or anyone who has lost their best friend, whether it is recent or at anytime. For those of us who have gone through this whole journey from beginning to end, we know the terrible pain and empty feeling we feel when that dreaded time comes. None of us wants to let go, it's one of the hardest things we have to do, but in the end there is only so much we can control, and some are forced to make decisions that torture us, but we know those decisions are for the love we have for these guys. I guess it's what we sign up for when we bring these guys into our life. I have said I think when we do lose then because of what we have gone through on this whole crappy journey is what makes letting go so much harder, but being part of this family I think makes it so much easier for all of us since we all know the emotions and ups and downs it puts us through. We hope the support from everyone here is felt when the need arises. I think I speak for most of us when I say we just don't feel we can come up with the words to describe how we feel when there is a loss, we try and hope they bring comfort to those needing them, but we want to do more. For some of us it brings to the surface those same feelings we had when we lost our buddies, which might catch us off guard since we thought we were through that part. There isn't one of us here that wouldn't give the world for one more lick, a nudge, to hug, wag of the tail, hear a bark, maybe one more car ride, a walk, to have then lay on our lap or next to us in bed, whatever, but I guess that's where the memories are suppose to help. For those of us who have gone through this, we know what that empty feeling is, it's indescribable, and maybe that is the spot we are suppose to use to put something we might have forgot about but remember as we think about our life with them, as we go through pictures or video and say, oh yea, I remember that day, or we'll say remember when he/she would do this or that. Hopefully it's those things that fill that empty spot and take away some of the pain. I don't think it goes away 100%, I think it's what lets us feel like we are still connected in some way. As some of you know, I usually like to have a good laugh with life, don't take it real serious at times, for me it's to short to get caught up in all the politically correct bulls**t that some try to force on us, and I will always be that way, but once in a while life just slaps you in the face one too many times and it hurts a little more than usual, and right now is one of those times. For Brett, Patty, Kami, Denise, Haley and anyone else that has recently lose their best friend, time will work a majic that lets you talk about Fortis, Mackenzie, Kona or Denali with a smile on your face. We are just like our buddies, we all heal different, so heal at your own pace, don't let someone try to tell you it was only a dog, you can get another one, those are the ones that never felt an unconditional love, bummer for them. I suppose I feel like I have gotten something off my chest, but I really hope you guys that are going through the tough times right now find some kind of comfort from everyone here at Tripawds,because I know it is all from the heart. Paws up, Spirit Gus and Dan
My buddy Gus had a left front amputation on April 7, 2010 and lived a great life until July 26,2010
A few things to add to Dan's Reflections:
When I sit down, trying to see a monitor through streaming tears, attempting to find words to convey just how sorry I feel at the loss of one or our warriors, attempting to find magical words to help ease the pain that I know is being felt now, I am always left feeling that I have done such an inadequate job of helping. However, I do remember that the words written by this community after the loss of my Miss Cherry did help. I actually wrote the posting announcing that Miss Cherry had passes over, weeks before, while she was still with me, and while I was able to hold on to her tightly. I knew just how devastating it would be for me, and it was even worse that I had expected. They come into our lives, fill our lives with love and excellent memories, then they pass on. It is so very devastating, but we should never loose sight of how much fuller we are because they were with us for this short time. I remember the morning that I lost Chrissy, after more than seventeen and a half years, nearly twenty five years ago. These memories never totally leave our being. However, I can remember all those wonderful companions with a quiet simile because of those warm memories, but I often feel the loneliness of their loss with tears.
Cherry said in her 2010 Yellowtone Posting:
One last thing before I close. Steamboat is the world’s largest geyser. It erupts to heights exceeding 300 feet and has not erupted since 2005. I have heard Dad say to many of his friends that he would gladly give up any opportunity of ever seeing Steamboat for just one more Cherry hug. I have to agree!
Our bonds with our companions is always strong. We dedicate so much to them, they share so many of our favorite activities, and they enhance so much of those activities. I will forever be reminded of how many glowing comments I heard regarding Cherry's beautiful gait when we walked. Whenever we would walk around the RV Resorts or Parks, people would stop us and comment, often asking if she was a "Show Dog". Actually she was, but only in obedience. She did have great lineage to conformation champions. However, I believe that we in this community share an extra special bond with our companions, forged by the battles we fight with CANCER. I am not sure if there really is a limit to what I would give just for another day with my Charites – except for seeing her in the pain or watching the cancer further ravish her tired body.
Spirit Cherry's Dad
Well said Dan, thanks for posting this.
There is a scene in Forrest Gump when a grown-up Jenny sees the house she grew up in, she breaks down remembering an abusive childhood, and in fury and helplessness she pelts the house with rocks and her shoes. And Forrest says something like 'sometimes there are not enough rocks'. That's how I feel here sometimes.
I am 7 months removed from letting Maggie go, and most of the time I can smile, and I enjoy telling people about her. But every loss here brings me back to that day- some of the sadness and pain.
When I first found Tripawds I was amazed by all the people who were still here after they lost their pups. But now that I am on that part of the journey I get it. It is hard to put into words, although I think about it a lot. Part of it is that I feel that I have a bit of a debt to pay- to who I don't know- but I was very fortunate to have Mag survive a long time, and she made it to her 11 th birthday. Part of it is that since Mag's amp predated Tripawds, we went through diagnosis, amputation and treatment alone. There were so many times then that I was lost, scared, and sure I had done the wrong thing. I really could have used this community to help me through. And part of it is that when Mag got the second cancer diagnosis, along with the other problems she developed, this community was here for me. You all helped me through our last three months, that tough day, and the grieving and healing that has gone on since June 2nd.
And then the other day someone from NY posted on Mag's blog. Her pug has recurring melanoma, and he is reaching the end of his journey. We have exchanged emails now, she said that reading about Mag has helped her deal with the decisions she is facing.
I believe strongly that you have to learn something from all life's experiences, especially the hard ones. The lessons I learned from Maggie's cancer journey have helped me through the most difficult year of my life. I guess I feel like I owe it to her to stay here, share her story, and maybe in some way help ease the pain and grief that our friends here are carrying.
Karen
If I might share with everyone that has suffered loss.....
If It Should Be
If it should be that I grow weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep;
Then you must do what must be done,
For this last battle cant be won.
You will be sad, I understand;
But dont let grief then stay your hand.
For this day more than all the rest,
Your love for me must stand the test.
We've had so many happy years;
What is to come can hold no fears.
You dont want me to suffer so;
The time has come , please let me go.
Take me where my needs they'll tend,
Until my eyes no longer see at the end.
I know in time you will agree,
It was a kindness done for me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I am saved.
Please do not grieve that it was you
Who had this painful thing to do,
We've been so close, we two, these years;
Dont let your heart hold any tears.....
author unknown
To you Brett and Pattie - and all the others that have so recently lost loved ones.
With Love ...
Coopers pack
Coopsdad/ Kenneth Blackburn
http://cooper.t.....ipawds.com
the monkeydogs only THINK they have invaded the tripawd state
Beautifully put Dan, thank you.
As much as it sucks whenever we lose another Tripawd hero, the incredible outpouring of support and love this community offers to complete strangers warms the heart and makes all our efforts worthwhile.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Beautiful. Just beautiful Dan. Thanks also Ken, Karen and Jim for words of comfort.
I'd just like to say to the new members starting this journey, please know that we are here for you, too. We have heavy hearts right now and there is a lot of mourning but your journey is just as important to us.
Comet - 1999 to 2011
She departed us unexpectedly January 23, 2011 at the age of 12 1/2.
She was born with a deformed front leg and a tripawd all of her life.
Dan, Bob, & Karen - Wow! To be able to put into words how you feel losing a warrior and continuing to support the community. That is pretty awesome. We as a community are blessed to have you guys here to support us day to day. One of the things I've learned on this journey is to acknowledge my blessings, and definitely the folks here are on that list.
May you all find peace in your lives, and continue to be inspirational to us all.
And Kenneth, I LOVE that poem. How appropriate to share it at this point. We all needed that gentle reminder after all the grief we've had recently.
Shanna & Spirit Trouble ~ Trouble gained her wings 3/16/2011, a 27 1/2 month cancer survivor, tail wagging. RIP sweetheart, you are my heart and soul. Run free at Rainbow Bridge.
The November Five - Spirits Max, Cherry, Tika, Trouble & Nova. 11/2008 - 3/2013 An era ends as Queen Nova crossed the Bridge.
Wow.
Thank you Dan, for starting this topic, I tried my best to get through it without tears but it was hard.
The knot in my chest and lump in my throat as I read all of this took me back to the days that we said goodbye to Jer, and I swear, if it wasn't for the good people and this community, I don't know what we would have done when we could no longer smell his fur or get big sloppy kisses from him. It hurt like hell. The depth of the loss was deeper than we ever thought possible.
Every dog is so special here, every loss is felt to our core. Whether a Tripawd is here a month or years, we all feel their absence when their time comes. All of us share a love of our animal companions that runs deeper than the "it's just a dog" crowd, and when someone joins this pack, they become part of this family for good.
I don't know why sometimes we suffer so many losses in a row here. WTH Universe, can you tell me???
I wish all of our animals could live forever. What gets me through these times is knowing that our fur kids are no longer in pain, and that we have been so blessed by having them in our lives.
Somewhere, all of our fur kids are partying their furry butts off, smiling and happy knowing that they've left an impression on some humans who do "get it," thanks to them. It's up to us to continue their work, spread the word, and make this world a better place for all animals and humans alike.
Hugs all around guys. Thanks for the beautiful words.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Thank you Dan. So much.
And thank you to Coopers pack, Kenneth, for the beautiful poem. So true.
The letting go, that final complete of the here and now, letting go, that was the hardest, and yet, somehow not.
We didn't want Kona to go, but knew that the war was indeed over and there was no choice.
Love for our girl won out. We had to let her go. She had to go. There was no other choice, no options left.
always loved.
always to be missed.
I too, used to wonder how/why people stayed here after their pups had passed on, but now, yeah, I understand it and I'm going to be here for the next ones going through all this. Payback, yes, but also as tough as it is emotionally sometimes, hey, we all know this all too well, it means so much.......to help, give comfort, share, grieve ..... there's a real tie that binds us all. A family, for sure. And, lots of love.
thanks everyone,
Denise
Kona turned 9yrs on April 16, 2010.
Kona was diagnosed Memorial Weekend 2010 with osteosarcoma.
Right rear leg amputated on June 4th. First chemo June 18th 2010
Second chemo July 9th, 2010 Third and final (yea !!!) chemo July 30th, 2010
ONE TOUGH GIRL this Australian Cattledog !
***Kona's journey/fight ended late in the evening of December 22, 2010***
We Love you so much Kona….always
Bella 9yrs, albino lab/aussie shep/pit?(abandoned in mts as a puppy) deaf & blind (from birth) in one eye limited vision in other.(laid back, ok lazy 73 lbs)
Cotton, 5yrs, albino hound/terrier of somesort/???(abandoned in mts as a puppy) deaf & blind in one eye(from birth), excellent vision in seeing eye. (ball addict…destroyer of Kong balls…yes,etc), high energy 55lbs knots of muscle)
Kona Kai's pup brother and sister as well as her buddy and playmate cat, Shaymous 12yrs (like Seamus), miss her terribly.
konakaismom said:
The letting go, that final complete of the here and now, letting go, that was the hardest, and yet, somehow not.
Totally. We learned that the easiest way to let go, is to never let go. Understanding that Jerry will always be with us in Spirit, was a big step in moving onward for us. It doesn't make missing his sloppy licks and fuzzy ear rubs any easier, but it helps turn frowns upside down.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
I have never felt such sorrow before i lost Shelli. Thank you for putting it so eloquently...i am at a loss for words when it comes to describing the loss of my very best freind.
I still think about her every day, several times a day (its been 4 months since she's passed). Yesterday i found some hair on the baseboards and i got real excited. I tried to see if it had her smell on it, and i ended up inhaling the few strands of fur and coughing it up.
Miss her!
The quest for world domination continues on three legs. Comply minions!
http://ritables.....ipawds.com
Read about my big sister Shelli who just passed away to the lymphnode sarcoma
http://bellesgo.....press.com/
One of the advantages of a Standard Poodle is they do not shed - One of the disadvantages of a Standard Poodle is they do not shed so you either have to clip them yourself or take them to a professional groomer. Since Chloe has been suffering from separation anxiety, I decided that I would give her her first "big girl" clip myself and avoid leaving her at a groomer. I also wanted to see just how well she would do on the grooming table. As I started, I changed the blades on the clipper and there was (and I should have known) black Standard Poodle hair. During her 405 days as a tripawd, I resumed all Cherry's grooming - I just did not want her to have to stand for hours as the groomer scissored her coat. Of course this hair was left from her last grooming - on her one year ampuversary - part of the great three day celebration. I think that many of the more seasoned members of this community remember the photos of her on the grooming table on that particular date. If not - reminise at Cherry's Three Day Celebration including the Baskin & Robbins soft serve ICE CREAM and the cake taken to each of the facilities for Cherry's two primary care giver during her tripawd journey.
No!! One never forgets and no matter how many tears it may generate such triggers as black hair in the clippers - it is worth every second.
Spirit Cherry's Dad
I don't know if this will work for others or not, but when I'm really missing Yoda down to the core, and wonder how in the heck I'm going to survive losing Gerry one day and go through it again and again with the dogs that will surely come after... I think about the pack that will be waiting to meet me when it's my time to go. As much as being without my first two pups sucks - getting back to them all at once, all together, will be pretty freakin' awesome. My faith in Heaven isn't even all that strong, but somehow my faith in that moment is. The love of our dogs could build a Heaven, if God hasn't already done it.
Hang in there friends.
Yoda&Mom united: 9/5/06 …….… Yoda&Leg separated: 6/5/09……… Yoda&Leg reunited: 10/14/09 ……… ……………….………….………….……. Yoda&Mom NEVER separated! …………………….….……....….…… Though Spirit Yoda currently free-lances as a rabbit hunting instructor for tripawds nationwide
Yes, I just have to add that we only let go of Kona's physical being, not her true self.
And as you all probably remember, Kona was a huge personality.....the limelight, not a wallflower.
Her spirit shall always be with us.
I keep hoping my girl will find the time for a visit. We actually think she did the other day.....
She was so strongly in our thoughts.....I even had dreamed about her that morning.....our two deaf/blind in one eye adopted brother and sister of Kona were acting 'different'. At mealtime, Kona always got them going in a well, in a frenzy...(yes, my devil dog, Kona) anyway, she'd always get them barking like crazy at mealtime. Well, since she passed, it's been horrible SILENCE at mealtimes...they just keep looking around, waiting for the cue from their Kona.........well, that other day when we just felt her so so strongly, at mealtime, they BARKED like crazy !!! Not before, not since...........makes me feel so good.
Our girl knew that we all really needed her that day, collectively, and yeah, a visit !
thanks for letting me share,
hugs,
Denise
Kona turned 9yrs on April 16, 2010.
Kona was diagnosed Memorial Weekend 2010 with osteosarcoma.
Right rear leg amputated on June 4th. First chemo June 18th 2010
Second chemo July 9th, 2010 Third and final (yea !!!) chemo July 30th, 2010
ONE TOUGH GIRL this Australian Cattledog !
***Kona's journey/fight ended late in the evening of December 22, 2010***
We Love you so much Kona….always
Bella 9yrs, albino lab/aussie shep/pit?(abandoned in mts as a puppy) deaf & blind (from birth) in one eye limited vision in other.(laid back, ok lazy 73 lbs)
Cotton, 5yrs, albino hound/terrier of somesort/???(abandoned in mts as a puppy) deaf & blind in one eye(from birth), excellent vision in seeing eye. (ball addict…destroyer of Kong balls…yes,etc), high energy 55lbs knots of muscle)
Kona Kai's pup brother and sister as well as her buddy and playmate cat, Shaymous 12yrs (like Seamus), miss her terribly.
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