Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi All,
My dog, Rocky, is a 10 year-old Pit/Boxer mix (63 lbs). The rescue I adopted him from believes he was hit by a car at 4 months-old and they decided to amputate his left front leg. He was 11 months when I adopted him. Yesterday after several weeks of having issues with his right front leg (i honestly thought he tore something which could be surgically repaired), he was diagnosed with bone cancer of the right front leg. According to the vet, amputation is not an option and I really don't know if I could remove his only front leg anyway. We are devastated by the diagnosis and trying to think of ways to keep him mobile without putting pressure on the front leg. Front leg wheelchairs (which the vet suggested) are custom and a lead time. We are racking our brains to try to get some ideas on how we can keep him mobile. I am not in the right frame of mind at the moment and having a hard time trying to think clearly to come up with any good ideas. I just want him comfortable for the time he has left and any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Rocky's Mom
Welcome and best wishes for Rocky. We've moved your topic here to the Hopping Around forum where it should get the relative attention it deserves. Your future forum posts will not require moderation.
Every dog is different. For best results, please consult with a certified canine rehab therapist for proper evaluation and an exercise program designed specifically to address Rocky's concerns. Visit a CCRT or CCRP and the Tripawds Foundation can pay for the first visit from the Maggie Moo Fund for Tripawd Rehab. There are also DIY Canine Rehab On Demand at-home programs designed for front or rear leg Tripawds...
How to Find Rehab Therapy for Three Legged Dogs and Cats
Front Limb Tripawd Rehab Program
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Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
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First of all, thank you for adopting sweet Rocky. What a lucky boy to have such a loving home...and to be a tripawd for ten years...WOW!!. You clearly have taken exquisite care of Mr, Rocky.
While I know this news is gutwrenching to hear, there ARE options you can at least check into!!
We always suggest a second opinion in cases like this with an Orthopedic Surgeon and Radiologist.
Also, inquire about biophosate (sp) and radiation. Dogs who were unable to jave amputation found this helpful and a way to alleviate the pain.
Alao there is something called a limb sparing technique that does require surgery and recovery time. No expert on it, but it does seem to have all sorts of issues' like infection, failed surgery, etc. Still something you can check into.
Is he on any pain meds now?? They certainly can help with quality.
It's possible that Eddie's Wheels could do a faster turn around under the circumstances.
Just wanted to quickly get so e of these possibilities out there.
Others will chime in soon too. We're here for you in any way possible, okay?
((((((((((((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!
He is on Rimadyl and Tramadol. Since Tuesday, he has already changed. He is a very stubborn dog and wants to do things "his" way. He will not let us truly help him which is unfortunate for his quality of life. He spent the whole night barking and I think it is time. With a heavy heart and tears in my eyes, I will do what is best for him. He deserves that! He was not dealt a great hand of cards from the beginning but I do know he had a life of love and happiness. Thank you for your kind words.
Marilyn
You are making a selfless decision out of love. Ypu gave Rocky the best ten years a dog could ever want. He knows you love him enough to release him because he can no longer be Rocky. Quality comes in different forms, but a dog not being able to be who they are....to be deprived of that is no quality.
We will be holding youmin our hearts today. And when you can, please share more of Rocky with us. He's definitely a tripawd RockStar...a stubborn one at that!
Sending you love
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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