My boy Hooke is now 12 years old (roughly) - he's a smaller dog, just 18lbs. I adopted him at 4 years old, immediately after his right rear leg was entirely amputated due to a bad break. Until now, he has been very healthy (aside from allergies), but a month ago I noticed a lump just behind his tarsal paw pad on the remaining rear leg. Yesterday, the vet said it must come off, but she won't do it because of the location and his already-tripod status - she referred me to a surgeon. I have some calls out for that.

Right now though I'm trying to plan ahead. I am assuming that for some length of time (a few weeks?) he will need to be 100% non-weight-bearing in the rear. Worst case, the surgeon will recommend a second amputation. Has anybody faced anything like this? What practical strategies did you use for the day-to-day, like pooping, being home without a human present, getting around the house, etc? I am looking at wheelchairs but unsure how helpful it would be for in-the-house, although it would force him not to put weight on the recovering limb.

Suggestions and advice much appreciated!