Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi all,
Our sweet Tess who is a weimarainer, lab mix had her left front leg amputated Dec 27th. We have left her collar off because it irritated her skin since her hair has been shaved. She is doing PT so we are going out walking around but we were concerned about pulling on her while having the collar on. Moreso, the rubbing of the collar on short walks as she is a strong, stubborn and determined girl. After PT today it is recommended that we get her a soft collar until her hair grows back. We have had Tess for almost a year and a half. When we adopted her she had never been taken out for a walk so she walks with a lead and treats to redirect her. I have seen other dogs come out of the Vets office with harnesses on but they generally are much older. Our PT is in the oncologist office, not our primary Veterinarian and in our 4 month journey dealing with a mast cell tumor we have never been able to go into the office. I am not sure if they sell harnesses in their office but appears that way. Any information on the pros of a harness vs a collar and or collar and harness would be appreciated. We do have a pet store locally that has a great selection of items but when you have a tripawd I'm not sure if they have what we'll need!
Thanks!
Melanie and Tess
Hey Melanie, it's great that Tess is on the move and getting back to what she loves best.
Harnesses are nice especially for front-leggers, because they take that stress off the neck. The Ruffwear Flagline and Webmaster that we carry both have D-rings on top and other places where you can attach a leash. They also rotate the least out of any harnesses we've found. However, they won't keep her from pulling or moving quickly. But whatever you do, stay away from a "no-pull" harness. They mess with any dog's gait but especially a Tripawd. Rehab therapists we've talked to don't like them because of how much they alter natural movemet.
Have you ever tried a Gentle Leader? That little device rests on their muzzle and helps direct them on walks without force. It helped us sooo much with our Wyatt when he was a young pup.
Dogs start out hating them usually, but most get used to them and over time may not even need them at all.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
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