Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat

Oh yes!  That's very normal! 

As far as problems....I don't know.  As they age, their little body does take it's toll but all you can do is like Charon said and add even physical therapy and hydro therapy and anti-inflammatories.  But don't worry, that's a long time away for Cheeto. Comet's mobility was fine until she 6 or  7.  Her back knees went out but we had them fixed and she was good to go until she was well into her senior years.  But don't worry about any of that now!  Enjoy Cheeto!  Someone has suggested just a fish oil supplement a day to help with joints.  So, that might be something to consider now.

Here's a good angle pic so you can see how Comet balanced.  Keep in mind, the other front leg and shoulder blade is deformed so just pretend it's not there!

Hi, this is especially true for Shelby.  Not only does her leg turn in, her paw has spread to carry the weight.  You should see Cemil's paw -- it's the size of a dinner plate!  We take Shelby to the Chiropractor every 5-6 weeks, and most importantly do not allow her to jump up and down onto her remaining shoulder.  She has a ramp up to our bed (yep, my old Total Gym I never got around to using covered with a yoga mat for slip resistence) balanced on steps.  Also, we placed a riser outside the doggie door so that when she goes outside she doesn't have to reach way down to the first step.  Let's see, there's the ever-present Roughwear harness to help lift her into and out of the truck.  And her little red wagon (or chariot if you are Lylie Girl), for long distance and slipper surfaces!  Lots of 'meaningful petting', where we massage her shoulder on down to her paw and wiggle her toes to make sure everything stays loose.  Hmm, did we mention we are the maid and chauffer?  Lots of love!

My tripawd is a rear legger but her rear leg has done the same....turned inward and toward center.  So much so, sometimes it's REALLY scary to look at her at times when she's standing still balancing.

Miss Pegz (front ledger) has what we call the "Big Paw"!! Like someone said...splayed like a "dinner plate" and turned inward. She loves to jump up on us when she gets excited...and when she does...we cover our vital organs!!! There is more power in that paw than a jackhammer. We do massages on the Big Paw leg as well as the one that isn't really there. She just loves the "phantom" massage. 

kviz said
She loves to jump up on us when she gets excited...and when she does...we cover our vital organs!!! There is more power in that paw than a jackhammer.

 

You aren't kidding!!! In our house, if someone yells out you'll usually hear a "I just got pawed!" right after.  Roxy is only 45 lbs, but good Lord that girl causes so much pain with that paw.  I bruise so easily so I always look like someone has been beating my legs.  It's horrible.