Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi, I'm new to this site. My Gracie had her front right leg amputated about 3 years ago, not sure what happened, I was working at a vet clinic and someone brought her in and just wanted her put down. Of course I took her! She is starting to get arthritis and slowing down from all the pressure on her "good" front leg. I got a brace for her remaining leg (there was not enough leg left for a prosthetic) and am really struggling with getting her to wear it. She did great at the vet's office to make sure everything fit, but now when I try to put it on her, she hides, she won't come to me and when I'm putting it on her it really stresses her out, lots of heavy panting. She doesn't growl at me, she is a real sweetheart, but all the hair on her back is standing up and she is not happy. When I finally get it on, she won't leave my side, she tries to sit on me, has to be touching me at all times and refuses to walk unless I walk, so I walk around the house a lot. She has special treats she gets as I'm putting it on her and she is getting more aggressive with taking the treats. I've been at it now for 5 days and it is a real struggle. Any advice?
Hi and welcome!
I have some thoughts but I’m on my phone and wanted to get your post approved so others can chime in, back in a bit!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Thanknyiu for bringing sweet Gracie into your heart and your home!!
I have very little input other than thinking it mustt hurt her ppssible? It is extremely important that braces of any sort be fitted by Orthopedic Specialist.
It could also be thst something else is going on with the leg...maybe?
There was a great post here just the past several days addressing the importance of the proper product, the proper evaluation and the proper fitting. It may be that the Vet who did this for yiur sweet girl does, indeed, have the expertise needed.
I'll see if I can find the post and come back. Sorry not much help!
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!
Here's the link I was referencing.
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!
Thank you for the link. I went through OrthoPets and I am very blessed that my vet did her internship there. Gracie did great at the fitting, but she sure doesn't like it now. I'm going to take her back in on Monday to ensure proper fit, cause this was really expensive and I want to make sure it works for her.
You certainly should be in good hands with ORTHOPET!! As you noted, it may simply be an adjustment is needed. You are such a good advocate for your girl!
Would love the see pictures of Gracie!
It would even be great if you could video some of the fitting Monday! 🙂 It would be wuite informative for us all!
For adding photos: adding images
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!
Thank you Sally, your answers were right in line with my own!
Yes, OrthoPets is a terrific company so I'm glad to know it's one of their braces. My first thought is that the brace could be hitting her in the wrong place. A fitting is one thing but using it on an everyday basis will put the fit to the test so it sounds like it may need an adjustment. Her reactions and hesitation to wear it are probably her way of telling you it's too tight or rubs in the wrong places.
No worries though, I know your vet will get the proper fit. It's not unusual at all for this to happen with a custom brace or orthotic. You're in good hands!
I'd love to see a photo of your Tripawd! Here's a post about adding images , let us know if you'd like help.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
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