Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hello all,
Just popping in to post an update. Max does so well that I don't research much anymore but I still log in from time to time.
Max had a TPLO repair on his right knee and 2 weeks later amputation of his left leg due to cancer. He is 11 yrs old now.
Here are a few things that changed since last post.
- Max turned 11 last month.
- He went on thyroid briefly and his fur finally grew back.
- I found a Physical Therapist and he started going every week, using the water treadmill and other exercises. We just started going every other week. He hates it and complains the entire time. 🙂 The surgeon and vet told me PT was a waste of time, but I wish they had given me this option to start. The surgeon finally after I insisted they recheck him (he was fine) gave me a PT's card.
- We purchased the Help 'Em Up harness which helps but he hates when we use the back end handle to help him. He never liked harnesses and I think it hurts him, so we just try not to pull to much on that but it's so useful in getting in/out of the car.
- He still doesn't do walks other than the yard because he just can't make it far. Last time he laid down in the road just past my house.
- He still needs help going up stairs from a full stop (running toward he does fine - which of course he can't do with our porch steps because of the angle) but has mastered gently going down.
- I had previously purchased a wheelchair (way before we knew of the amputation) and with the amp it tilts and he is afraid of it. I want to use it when we go out as a family to dog friendly places so I am working on making a new rear harness to see if I can't make it work better for him.
I just read a post on XL dog strollers and if I could find one that is not expensive, I may do that for these outings. I just don't want to keep buying things for this poor old man-dog.
Max is happy otherwise. He is happy to nap all day long and chase a rabbit or two in the back yard from time to time. I work from home and he's always at my feet. He started following me into the bathroom again, which he stopped doing after his amputation. Oh goody 🙂
Cherie thank you for letting us know how Max is doing! He is such a total ROCK STAR! 
This blows my mind:
The surgeon and vet told me PT was a waste of time, but I wish they had given me this option to start. The surgeon finally after I insisted they recheck him (he was fine) gave me a PT's card.
What the?!!!! OMD don't get me started. Good for you to advocate for Max and get him into therapy! I guarantee he's much further along now than he would be without that extra assistance.
I had previously purchased a wheelchair (way before we knew of the amputation) and with the amp it tilts and he is afraid of it.
The wheelchair manufacturer should add a counter-balance to it to help it stay on-kilter. Has Max's therapist seen it? They can offer suggestions on acclimating him to it. Don't do anything else until they review the chair.
I just read a post on XL dog strollers and if I could find one that is not expensive, I may do that for these outings. I just don't want to keep buying things for this poor old man-dog.
Honestly these are often better than wheelchairs, and dogs accept them faster. You can post in the Angel Exchange that you are on the lookout for a gifted one. Maybe there is one out there!
He is sooo lucky to have you looking out for him!
We can't see the photos. Here's how adding images works. If you'd like help just let me know. We can't wait to see them!
I've been totally frustrated with vets and the ortho. The ortho was great but didn't think PT would help. I feel like everyone is dismissive of Max because of his age. The PT is wonderful. She hasn't seen the wheelchair yet but we discussed fitting him on his next visit. The PT has an app with the exercises to do with Max at home too. We really don't have options here in Omaha so I am grateful to have found her.
That is odd about the images. I pasted the URL in the insert image function. I will try again.
I am in Council Bluffs. Hi neighbor. Yes, you are right about not a lot of options in Omaha/Council Bluffs. With that being said though there are more options now than when I went through this 11 years ago. Sassy has been gone 10 years now so we have made progress in the PT area and rehab.
Keep doing your best for your baby 🙂
Michelle & Angels Sassy, Bosch, Baby Simba and Sweet Snickers
Sassy is a proud member of the Winter Warriors. Live long, & strong Winter Warriors.
sassysugarbear.tripawds.com
07/26/2006 - Sassy earned her wings 08/20/2013
05/04/2006 - Bosch, Sassy's pal, earned his wings 03/29/19 fought cancer for 4 months.
"You aren't doing it TO her, you are doing it FOR her. Give her a chance at life."
Aww I love that you and Michelle are so close by!
Yes stick to that PT she sounds golden. It still amazes me how many places don't have access to rehab therapy, and how many surgeons are not enlightened about its benefits. I'm sorry you got the brush off from them, but as you can see, Max isn't ready to give up and neither is his pawesome therapist or you!
LOVE the photos! Thank you for trying again. He is so smoochable!
Just catching up on sweet Max and am sooooo happy to know this "mature" fella' is doing so well!
I remember so well how quickly he needed the amputation after the TPLO surgery, I also remember the exquisite care and devotion he received from his loving family♥️♥️
Max is such an I inspiration on so many levels and we are thrilled to jave this update.
The pictures are wonderful, absolutely wonderful!! You captured the perfect photo of Max licking his chops waiting for his birthday cake. Lpve this!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET MAX!!! We love you dearly♥️
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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