Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Unfortunately, the specialist was unable to give us better news. After looking over all of the records, xrays and biopsy results and conducting a physical exam, he feels that there is a very high probability that we're dealing with an osteosarcoma. The other possibilities are so remote that they are probably not worth considering (some sort of fungal infection that occurs primarily in the Southwest, while we're in Maryland).
We had a second set of xrays this morning, and the initial assessment was that it appears the area of concern has increased in size, leading us to believe it is a tumor. We're still waiting on the final answer from the radiologist, but we're clearing our schedules and looking at dates for the amputation. I also sized Norah and ordered the Web Master harness today in anticipation. The xrays were more for us than anything else. We would have a hard time if the post-amputation biopsy showed a non-malignant growth of some sort, so seeing a growth in size of the tumor tells us that we are doing the right thing with the amputation. Of all of the options we had at hand, the xrays were inexpensive, painless and not invasive. As a bonus, the referral center was able to get them with no sedatives whatsoever, whereas our normal vet would use sedatives to get good film.
Thankfully, she is a good candidate for amputation because her hips are good, her weight is low and she's in good spirits. I guess we'll take that as a silver lining. I'm again, thankful for this online community and will continue to share our experiences. Thank you all, once again.
Norah is an 8 year old Alaskan Husky. She was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in her right hind leg on 3/26/12. She had her amputation on 4/1/13. Chemotherapy (Carboplatin) started on 4/16/13 and she has completed three rounds.
Sorry to hear that the tests are pointing to OS for Norah. It sounds as though you have done what you have needed for Norah and yourselves to be able to make a decision. In this case, that being to amp. I can certainly empathize with you on your deliberations as to amp or not? I went thru the exact deliberations, forth and back, trying to justify doing or not doing the amp. Finally, thru the support of the folks on here and the support from the medical professionals we went ahead.
We are now 9 days post amp and Tahoe is doing great. There are good days and down days but the trend is improving.
Hang in there knowing you are doing the best for Norah and if I can be of any assistance going forward, don't hesitate to send a PM or note.
Stirling and Tahoe
"Tahoe" - Our Amazing Superman and Best Friend.
Dec. 01-03 to Aug. 19-14
Diagnosed with Periarticular Hystiocystic Sarcoma Feb 14-13; Amputation March 18-13, and diagnosed with STS April-14. Tahoe touched so many people while visiting us, leaving a massive void in our lives. Always Missed, Never Forgotten!!
You seem to have crossed all your T's and dotted every i on this issue. You've seen multiple people and have included the experts. I'm sorry it's looking like she be officially joining the Tripawd club here. I know it's not what you wanted (none of us did), but we're here! We're here to help you and your girl make it through the sometimes rough and ugly post-op, but we'll also be here to celebrate every little thing! It's magical when they regain, well, anything they had done before: pooping, stairs, getting on the couch, playing with toys, a full meal, a walk route, personality, etc. You've got her best interests in your heart; that's all you need! Let that guide you.
~ Katy
ACL tear in right hind leg 12/5/12 and scheduled ACL repair surgery 12/21/12. Pre-op xrays revealed osteosarcoma. Amputation 12/28/12. Chemo (carboplatin) started Jan 10, 2013 and ended on April 5, for a total of 5 doses. He handled carbo like a champ! No side effects. We started metronomic therapy at his third chemo and have been also doing some holistic treatments. He's a lively, playful 10 year old huskie-boarder collie and a very proud member of the Winter Warriors! Our love. Our funny little guy!
Thanks, folks. I hope for the best for Jackson and Tahoe! Norah is scheduled for her surgery on Monday.
Norah is an 8 year old Alaskan Husky. She was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in her right hind leg on 3/26/12. She had her amputation on 4/1/13. Chemotherapy (Carboplatin) started on 4/16/13 and she has completed three rounds.
Well now that that is all scheduled, any questions you have, feel free to ask! Always feel free to come to the chat room , theres usually a few of us in there!
Where in Maryland are you? I used to use Friendship Animal Hospital in DC.
Jill is a 9-year-old tuxedo kitty. She was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma in June 2012 on her toe in her right hind leg. Her leg was amputated on 12/12/12 and she completed four rounds of chemo (2 of Carbo, 2 of Doxy) in April 2013. "Like" Jill's facebook page: https://www.fac.....tty?ref=hl Proud member of the WINTER WARRIORS!!!! Her blog can be read at http://jillsjou.....ipawds.com. xoxo
We're in Silver Spring. Kindness Animal Hospital in Wheaton is our regular vet. The surgery is going to be done at VCA Veterinary Referral Associates in Gaithersburg. I can't say enough good things about Dr. Hershenson there. He knows his stuff and is very generous with his time.
Norah is an 8 year old Alaskan Husky. She was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in her right hind leg on 3/26/12. She had her amputation on 4/1/13. Chemotherapy (Carboplatin) started on 4/16/13 and she has completed three rounds.
Norah's Dad, we're so sorry to hear this. Osteosarcoma is an intimidating diagnosis, but take heart in knowing that many dogs have beaten the odds and survived this disease to everyone's amazement. Some have even gone in complete remission for over 3 years now! So as bad as it sounds, don't give up hope that Norah can beat these odds too.
Sounds like you have a great medical team on your side and she is a GREAT candidate for surgery too. You can't go wrong with good doctors and by leaning on us, we'll be here to help you every step of the way.
P.S. thank you so much for ordering Norah's harness through Tripawds!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Hoping the surgery well well today!! Pawsitive thoughts and energy coming your way from up north.
You and Norah will get through this, as hard as that may seem. We are 2 weeks post amp today. Tahoe was doing the back dance on the grass on his toy today. He is now sporting his new spanky red Ruffwear Harness (Sorry Jerry, Amazon.com would not deliver to Canada, so had to go local).
Stirling and Tahoe
"Tahoe" - Our Amazing Superman and Best Friend.
Dec. 01-03 to Aug. 19-14
Diagnosed with Periarticular Hystiocystic Sarcoma Feb 14-13; Amputation March 18-13, and diagnosed with STS April-14. Tahoe touched so many people while visiting us, leaving a massive void in our lives. Always Missed, Never Forgotten!!
Thinking good thoughts for Norah's surgery. Don't hesitate to come on and vent, whine or cheer at any time in these next couple of weeks. They are the hardest and the ones that seem to make us question everything. She is going to come through like a rock star!!
Spirit Shooter was a Miniature Australian Shepherd who was diagnosed with a MCT and had a LF amp 1/28/13 at 13-1/2 years old.
Shooter crossed the Bridge on 8/28/13, his 7 month ampuversary and two weeks from his 14th birthday.
I hope the amp went well!! Do come back and post an update. Thinking of ya!
~ Katy
ACL tear in right hind leg 12/5/12 and scheduled ACL repair surgery 12/21/12. Pre-op xrays revealed osteosarcoma. Amputation 12/28/12. Chemo (carboplatin) started Jan 10, 2013 and ended on April 5, for a total of 5 doses. He handled carbo like a champ! No side effects. We started metronomic therapy at his third chemo and have been also doing some holistic treatments. He's a lively, playful 10 year old huskie-boarder collie and a very proud member of the Winter Warriors! Our love. Our funny little guy!
Hope the surgery went well. Give Norah big hugs when she gets home from Sassy & I
Michelle & Sassy
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."
Thanks for all of the well wishes for Norah! You're great people.
She did well in surgery. The hospital has kept us informed. She stood on her own not long after waking up and the vet feels she will do well in recovery. They took get off of IV meds today and she'll be switching to oral pain killers. We're still looking good for discharge tomorrow!
Norah is an 8 year old Alaskan Husky. She was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in her right hind leg on 3/26/12. She had her amputation on 4/1/13. Chemotherapy (Carboplatin) started on 4/16/13 and she has completed three rounds.
Yay! Now the fun begins! Get some good sleep tonight and come here anytime of day or ight-there's usually someone awake dealing with whatever you might be going through!!
Surrounding you with support and lots of healing energy, Sally Happy Hannah
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!
Whew! That's terrific news. While you're waiting you can calm your nerves by staying busy and looking around your house to make sure it's "tripawd-proofed" and Norah's got a comfy recuperating area. Look for areas she might slip on (cover with throw rugs, yoga mats, traction ), raise her bowls a bit to help her, etc. Check your first aid kit for supplies (bandages, tape, etc., just in case). Making sure she's confident will go a long way toward a good recovery. And of course be good to yourself too, get lots of rest.
We have our paws crossed she'll be able to come home tomorrow! Keep us posted.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
All- Norah is home! For the most part things are going well. She did have a fall on the carpet this morning and it freaked her out a little. I actually think that she tried to put weight on her missing leg and toppled over. Then while she was on the ground, her hind leg and muscles by her missing leg were twitching and she seemed a little freaked out. Luckily, my wife and I were both right there and were able to reassure her that everything was ok. Since then, she's lost a little confidence. Fortunately we don't have many steps because we live in a one story house. Nobody said it would be easy, even though she made it seem that way the first few hours!
VCA Veterinary Referral Associates was fantastic. They spent a lot of time during discharge, and gave us a nice padded sling to help lift her and a soft e-collar to go with the hard plastic one we've already got. The service and care we got from them has been awesome.
Norah is an 8 year old Alaskan Husky. She was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in her right hind leg on 3/26/12. She had her amputation on 4/1/13. Chemotherapy (Carboplatin) started on 4/16/13 and she has completed three rounds.
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