Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hey everyone,
Bogart is my best friend. He's only three and a half years old and he's incredibly smart and active. I go hiking with him every other day and he literally goes everywhere with me when I'm not at work. Every restaurant I go to has to have outdoor seating so that I can be there with my boy. He's a 70 pound pitbull mix that I rescued when he was about 9 or 10 months old.
Well, Monday I took him to the vet after noticing a rather large bump on his hind leg the previous week. I let it sit over the weekend thinking it could be just swelling or a bug bite. The lump is about 6cm in length and sort of hard. The vet was up front with me and suspected cancer. She took a couple samples and said it looked like there were some cancerous cells. She took a few more to send off to an oncologist for a more precise diagnosis. When I heard the "c" word, I just went blank. It was like everything went silent and I could only hear every other word. Bogart is only a little over three and he's very active. He isn't in pain and still runs and jumps and plays using his hind legs. The vet also took some x-rays and noticed some slight bone abnormalities on the bone next to the mass. The mass itself is on the outside of the left hind leg near the middle of the tibia and fibula.
I'm fully expecting to hear back that he does have cancer, just what kind, I don't know what to expect. I've done alot of reading and am probably scaring myself, but I want to know we're in for. It's safe to say that I will do absolutely anything for Bogart. We have pet insurance, but even if we didn't I'd pursue any treatment. I'm not scared of him having to lose his leg, because I know he's still going to be handsome and we can overcome it.
I'm scared to death of hearing osteosarcomo. If it is the worst, is it possible that he can overcome it since he's young and healthy outside of this? I'm at a loss... I expected for Bogart to be with me until he was 18... We exercise and train regularly. I cook him homemade food every week... I'm just not handling this incredibly right now...
Here's a pic of my main man only about 3 months ago:
Hello and welcome, your future posts will not have to wait for approval.
I'm sorry you are facing this diagnosis, but glad you found us.
It's really hard to give input until you know what kind of cancer you are dealing with, when will you get reports back? What kind of sample did the vet take? Sounds like maybe just sampled with a needle? Just to prepare yourself sometimes those tests come back as undetermined. And often what we see here is that osteosarcoma is diagnosed with an x-ray- did your vet send that for evaluation too?
I know it's hard not to let your mind run wild- I know mine did when the vet said the mast cell tumor in my Pug's rear leg would need amputation. It's good to do research and gain knowledge but really all you can do is wait until you have some answers to make a plan. There are many kinds of cancer, different stages and grades, and each has it's own prognosis and suggested treatment.
Your boy is very handsome!
Keep us posted on test results. No matter what you find out you are welcome here and we will help in any way we can.
Karen and the Spirit Pug Girls
Tri-pug Maggie survived a 4.5 year mast cell cancer battle only to be lost to oral melanoma.
1999 to 2010
Hi Krun,
Thanks for the reply and the forum activation.
I did get the results back this morning. Our vet is reasonably sure that this is a "nerve sheath tumor." We have made an appointment to see an oncologist for next week and discuss treatment. The quick overview from our vet was that Bogart will probably have this removed and any remaining bits will have to be killed by radiation. She did say that this brand of tumor would probably come back to the same leg over his life, but has a very rare chance of metastasizing. I'm feeling like 80% better this morning, but still 20% scared out of my mind. It just formed so quickly and out of nowhere... and Bogart is so young.
These are the test results from the cytology:
CYTOLOGY
CLINICAL INFORMATION:
SOURCE:
6 x 4 cm mass on the left lateral leg. Four slides
DESCRIPTION:
The slides contain a small amount of peripheral blood as well as a low
number of mesenchymal cells. These cells have oval to elliptical
nuclei with prominent nucleoli. Cytoplasm is variable with some
circumferential and some polar. The cells are present singly and in
variably sized clusters. Minimal anisocytosis and anisokaryosis are
observed in this cell population.
MICROSCOPIC FINDINGS: POSSIBLE SPINDLE CELL TUMOR.
COMMENTS:
Spindle cells can be associated with numerous lesions including low
grade epithelial tumors, epithelial cysts, lipomas, inflammatory
lesions, etc. A spindle cell sarcoma such as a hemangiopericytoma or
other peripheral nerve sheath tumors could appear cytologically
similar. Biopsy or surgical removal with histopathology is
recommended for a definitive diagnosis.
Hi Bogart and family, welcome. I'm so sorry you had to join our club but we are here to help.
Bogart you are gorgeous!
So....the fact that he is so fit and overall healthy, and it doesn't sound like a very aggressive cancer, is a HUGE plus. Many young dogs who lose a limb for various reasons do quite well. You are a conscientious parent and will obviously do what it takes to help him stay strong and healthy on three legs. With you, and a good canine rehabilitation therapy team, there's no reason why Bogart can't continue going on modified adventures and having good times with you.
Try not to think too far ahead right now. Be More Dog ! Follow his lead, focus on the here and now and getting him through surgery and recovery. Our Tripawds e-books , like Three Legs & a Spare, are good places to prepare yourself for amputation surgery recovery. And our Jerry's Required Reading List is another good resource.
What kind of specific questions do you have that we can answer?
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Hey Jerry,
Thanks for the uplifting message. Even though I cried my eyes out while reading it, it really did help. On thursday, the 8th, we have our appointment and will know more then, but the waiting is killing me. I hate that we have to wait and I just want to get started with treatment as soon as possible so that I can make sure that I have every possible second with Bogart accounted for.
I've had a pit in my stomach for three days now and am trying my hardest to fight back tears, especially when I'm around Bogart, so that he doesn't know anything is wrong.
Bogart's mom and I are on the same page when it comes to amputation. 3 legs and a happy pup is better than pain or worse... and we're going to do everything to make his transition as great as possible. We're already looking up videos of tripod dogs doing agility and being active and are ready for the challenge.
My main concern is just the uncertainty of it all... Never would I have expected Bogart to have this sort of health issue. We always joked that he would outlive us because we cooked him amazing meals with alternating proteins while we were eating a Whopper. I just can't imagine the possibility of losing him.. or even losing him at a young age and him not growing to be an old man. Developing a tumor at 3 is just breaking my heart.
Welcome bogart and bogart's pawrents. Im sorry that you had to find us this way but glad that we can be here to help.
First bogart is absolutely stunning! What a fit handsome guy! As jerry said this is a plus for him. His age, health and if i dont miss my guess his personality will all benifit him as he recovers. And of course you and bogarts mom ❤
The big "C" is definitely a huge sucker punch, and waiting is especially tough when we just want to fix it now and make everything ok. Your conviction and love are already moving you in the right direction. 3 legs and happy is HUGE ❤ and no matter what your going to make sure he's great.
Im early on in my tripawd journey (1 month post op) but i will tell you this he will amaze you! Our girl is pretty active and she hasnt let it get her down. If anything ive had to slow her down a little bit so she doesnt over do it!
Please let us know how his appointment goes on the 8th. In the mean time if you need to chat or have questions we're here to help and support you all.
Big hugs!
Hugs ❤ Bev, nurse Moe cat, Autumn's Angel Roane & Angel dog Gypsy 🐾
My sweet soulmate Roane was diagnosed with osteo in June of 2019. Had a rear leg amp on July 2nd & crossed the rainbow bridge to be with her sister Gypsy on the first day of Autumn Sept 23 2019.
Thanks for the kind words Roane's person! I just read your thread and Roane's story. I'm so thrilled to see everything working out and the love and support she has. She's a big beautiful girl and seems like her will won't hold her back from recovery.
It's also great to see everyone else here be so positive and helpful. I won't lie, I'm scared. I'm beyond terrified. But seeing all this support and other people's success stories is chipping away some of the stress. I still can't help but dwell on "the worst case scenario," but I assume that's normal.
I will let everyone know how the appointment goes and also post any updates to Bogart here. Luckily, he has no clue anything is wrong right now. From what I can tell, he's not in any pain, and still has energy to play and move. He and his little brother were just tugging and ripping the stuffing out of a toy - and yesterday, we played "spray fetch" with the hose. Right now, it just seems like a superficial lump, even though I know it's not... But he's sleeping at my feet as I write this - hopefully content and less stressed than me.
Here's a pic of him on his third birthday in April... he still looks like such a puppy.
OOOOMMMMDDDDD!!! Bogart is soooo handsome!! You can really tell he is a strong and fit pupper!! Quite a Regal looking fella'.We all just joined the BOGART FAN CLUB ❤
You've gotten great jnput from everyone. We all understand the uncertainty, the fear, the pit jn the stomach, the tears, the fear, the exhaustion mentally and physically. We understand rhe depth of your love and devotion. We understand you will do anything and everything for Bogart. And he knows that too!
You're doing your research and moving forward with a plan. And believe it or not, deciding in a plan of action and proceeding actually is a relief!
You are giving Bogart a chance at a pain free quality life. After recovery...and recovery is no picnic fot a couple of weeks, you will be soooo glad you are giving Bogart a chance to be Bogart again...but without pain!
As Jerry said, one of the most important things you can do FOR Bogart, is to Be More Dog !! Bogart loves jn the now, in the moment. He has no worries about tomorrow. He doesn't count days on a calendar and he doesn't listen to anything Vets say!!
So yes, just continue to make every moment count and don't waste one second worrying about that crap disease. AND post more pictures of your handsome boy!! His Fan Club is waiting!
Eat chocolate. Get some rest. Breath. Go hug Bogart and watch him wag hos tail. Eat more chocolate.
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!
And just as I was typoing mu ppst, I just saw where you let us see another picture of handsome! Grinning over here!!!😁😀
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!
Breathtaking... he is absolutely breathtaking 
I am a total pittie fool and your boy is an amazing work of art. Looking at him actually makes the heart skip a beat. You have done everything to help him be the strongest, healthiest pup he can be and your efforts will not be lost here. As Sally said, going through surgery and recovery can be challenging, but the ground work you have laid for Bogart are going to prove to be so worthwhile. He is lean and muscular, with recovery and rehab he will transition well into a tripawd.
Please stay in contact with any and all questions and concerns. Go through the blogs and articles on surgery and recovery. I think being prepared and planning things out are so very helpful.
I am so sorry that you are going through this, but I'm glad you found us.
Jackie and Huckleberry
Hugs,
Jackie, Bo, Andy, Oscar, Phoebe, and the coolest feral tripawd kitty Huckleberry 
He is so dang cute! You are going to fall in love with him even more, and so will everyone who meets him.
Yes, feeling scared is normal. And you are doing the right thing by not being upset in front of him. It is your good attitude that will make all the difference in recovery, so keep up with the pawsitivity as best you can and it will pay off big time.
I also commend you for dealing with this now, before that tumor gets so bad it affects his mobility, appetite, etc. Many people wait until things get that bad, and it's not good for anyone. So good job at being his #1 advocate!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
I was watching some videos we took of him around the 10th and 11th of July and I can see the tumor on his leg, much smaller, but it's there. At the time we didn't notice it or must have just brushed it off as a bug bite or something.. He's always getting little scratches and bites from our hikes. Looking back at it now and knowing what and where to look, I feel so stupid that we missed it. It seems like this tumor just popped up and grew in the last month, and if I had noticed it for what it was 3 weeks ago, I wouldn't have hesitated to take him into the vet to get it seen about.
I can't imagine waiting for it to get to in extremis to seek action.
Don't beat yourself up by not noticing. Before Brownie was diagnosed, I knew he wasn't acting right, but just thought it was age. He was constantly under my feet, or he would leave the room and go off by himself. I didn't know something medically was wrong until he started limping. He was eating, no fever just wasn't being Brownie.
Bogart is one handsome boy, and very very fit. He reminds me of Jerry from the videos I have seen. Very active and very fit, and missing a front let did not slow Jerry down at all, and Wyatt as well.
Brownie and I have always been close, but for some reason, it's still hard to believe we are even closer now with his amputation. I never thought that was possible. Bogart is going to inspire you every day!
My Beautiful Beloved Brownie was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma on February 26, 2019. With all odds against him he lived an additional one year and eight days with amputation, love, and prayer. I was honored to be his mom, and I have never been so proud! He will live forever in my Heart!
04/01/2007 - 03/05/2020
"March Saint"
So today we had a consultation with the oncologist that our vet recommended. We didn't really learn anything new definitively about Bogart's diagnosis - the oncologist looked at the cytology results and said they were "wishy washy" and that these types of cytology results aren't 100% definitive as they used the word "probably" often.
She went over our options for treatment assuming that the cytology results were as they said - a spindle cell tumor / nerve sheath tumor.
Options to consider according to her:
-Amputation - because of the placement of the tumor, he would need a full limb gone (back left leg)... so no chance of prosthetics
-Debulking combined with a 4 week (5 days a week) radiation treatment to the area
-Debulking combined with a certain injection point chemotherapy (2-3 treatments, I believe)
-Debulking combined with a chemotherapy / electrical current procedure (2-3 treatments)
According to her, all of these debulking options are mostly successful - but there's still a 15-20% chance that the tumor comes back.
She did not feel that it was possible to completely surgically remove the tumor, including a couple centimeters for "margins" due to the location on the leg. She felt that there wasn't enough skin on the area for the full removal wound to heal.
She did recommend us to get a full biopsy to get a more definitive idea of what we're dealing with. So we are doing that. On Tuesday of next week, they are going to take a chunk of the tumor out for biopsy, which should inform our decision more.
This is alot for us... It's nothing new about his condition, but just hearing all of these options from a doctor is really solidifying what's going on.
Assuming that the biopsy comes back to confirm the earlier cytology, we're still not sure what our best option is for Bogart. We absolutely do not want this to happen again - and I've read in so many places that people opted to not amputate, but wish they had when the cancer came back at a later date.
Does anyone have any opinion on these options? We're trying to compose ourselves and make the perfect decision, but it's just so much...
You are soing such a stellar job of doing your research for the best options for handsome Bogart.
My Happy Hannah had osteo, so others will have to chi e kn based in their experience. And she did jave a biopsy, so no help there.
Question though, and confirm this with your Onco, from what I understand a lot of times biopsies still come back inconclusive. The "surgery recovery" itself can also be a bit painful for the dog. So, what options, if any, would change if you did get a specific type?
You're getting closer and closer to a plan of action, so hang in there.
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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