Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
Tripawds is your home to learn how to care for a three legged dog or cat, with answers about dog leg amputation, and cat amputation recovery from many years of member experiences.
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Hi,
I am bringing my 12 female Golden home today after having her front leg amputated for a bone tumor (presumably osteosarcoma) and pathologic fracture. Any advice on helping her adjust during the first few day of her new life as a tripawd missing a front leg and getting her started on 3 legs? Thanks so much!!!
Joe
Hello @sammiejo! I see you posted in the Tripawds Chat , sorry I missed you. I am thrilled you made your way to the Forums!
Sorry about your girl's diagnosis. I know this is overwhelming, and you are in great company, lots of us have been through recovery.
So yes we have tons of advice. Check out the Tripawds What to Expect articles. And when you have more time, Jerry's Required Reading List has lots of info too.
Meanwhile, how is your house set up? Do you have slippery floors? If so, you want to put down no-slip traction rugs to help her get around.
Raise her water and food bowl too, that will be a huge help with balance and comfort.
What kind of pain management is she coming home with? The first few days can have highs and lows, like a rollercoaster sometimes. But just stay focused on the big picture: she is going to be feeling so much better without that bad leg holding her back! It may take longer than other dogs just because of her age and size, but she will get there. Don't compare her recovery with others, she is on her own timeline.
If you'd like live support, Gale is managing the Tripawds Helpline today, 844-TRIPAWD. And stay tuned for feedback from the community!
Checking in to see how your girl is doing. Goldens are such sweet pups and always find a way to make you laugh.
Jerry already gave you wonderful support and information. So now that she's been home a few days now, let us k ow what's going on. pain management is crucial and can require some tweaking now that all the hospital meds are out of her system.
Keep a strong and confident upbeat energy around her. Rest is important right now. It may take her a few days to get her sea legs, especially as a "mature" gal. Drinking and peeing are important but she may be off food and not pooping for a few days.
We're here for you and in a y way we can. Remember, recovery doesn't last furever, it just seems like it for a couple of weeks. It is MAJOR surgery all while our dogs are adjusting to three.
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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