Yay for no more bandage! How is Maya's mobility now?

As for chemo, it's such a personal decision. Some decide to pursue it and others don't. Every situation is different and nobody will judge you here on whatever you choose.

The nice thing about chemo is most dogs do well and have no major problems. Statistically it does ensure better odds of survival but there are no guarantees, we see it go both ways. Some dogs outlive the prognosis after chemo and some do not. It's really up to you to decide what is best for Maya.

Have you talked to an oncologist yet? Has your vet referred you to one?

You are so very welcome! I'm glad she's getting better.

As for dogs getting depressed or sad. We used to say no. But there is new science that shows dogs can definitely have emotions similar to ours. How similar to ours is TBD. It may or me not be depression as we know it, but they can certainly show us that something is off with their changed behavior.

If you are seeing a clear change in her personality, then it's likely related to the amputation in some way. We are so used to seeing our dogs bouncy and energetic, but remember, amputation is a BIG surgery and it takes time for the body to adjust. It's exhausting. When dogs are in pain from learning to get around on 3 (see these pain signals ), it often looks like depression, and also pain medications can make them seem depressed too. That doesn't mean you should stop pain control however. Sometimes it's just a matter of getting through the first several weeks of recovery and dogs get back to normal once they get their routines and strength back and they don't need pain control any more. But if you see Maya's personality continuing to change or seem off, it's worth mentioning to your vet.

myarnar said
Hi Jerry, Benny, and any passersby,

Two questions:

1. Are there braces/sleeves that can help support Maya's legs? Hopefully alleviate some of the strain and pressure? Any advice to help him while he's standing or attempting to sit down?

Hey there, nice to hear from you! So what about Maya's mobility is making you think that a brace is needed? What kind of trouble is he having? What does his daily activity look like? Could he be getting too much activity in right now? He has not been an amputee very long and all dogs need time and conditioning to adjust.

Generally when a dog is struggling, it's from weakness in the core and back muscles, not the legs. The real strength comes from abdominal and back muscles, just like a human. Yes, braces for Tripawds exist, but never use them without consulting with a rehab therapist, who can get to the source of problem. That's why Tripawds Foundation will pay for your first rehab visit ! Do check it out. 

2. This past week, Maya sporadically yelped loudly, as if in some sudden spastic pain. This occurred several times already, and we're not sure what to make of it. Any insights into this would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

Raymond

  

When did it happen? It could very well be phantom leg pain , which can happen even this far out from surgery. It sounds like between the weakness you described, and the pain signals , that he can really use a visit with a rehab therapist. Can we help you find one near you? 

Meanwhile I would let your vet know about his pain signals so that you can get pain management started. Generally gabapentin and rest will help with the symptoms. But to find the source of the pain, you really want to have a therapist look at him.