Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
Tripawds is your home to learn how to care for a three legged dog or cat, with answers about dog leg amputation, and cat amputation recovery from many years of member experiences.
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Does anyone have experience with an english bulldog having an amputation? Our 13 year old bully needs an amputation due to cancer in his back right leg, and while I think it will ultimately help make him have less pain, I am worried about the pain of the surgery, the recovery and the adjustment. Any advice from those who have similar experiences is much appreciated. Thanks!
Hi, Carianne, and welcome. Your future posts will not need to wait for approval.
I haven't been through cancer with my dog, but we've had members with dogs of all shapes and sizes live successfully on three legs. I sure someone with firsthand experience will be along shortly to share.
I the meantime, I thought I'd let you know that if you do choose amputation, the tripawds foundation can pay for your fist rehab visit to help get your dog back on his feet.
Hey there, I'm really sorry about the diagnosis. What kind of cancer do they suspect?
Well, unfortunately we've seen many English Bulldogs become Tripawds over the years. Here are some Forum search results mentioning English Bulldogs:
https://tripawd.....;include=1
What we see here is that as long as pain management is good, a dog can bounce back pretty quickly after surgery, like a few weeks. Being 13, yours may take longer but that is very normal. And while life won't be exactly as it was before, it will be pain-free and that's the whole point of taking that bad leg.
I would want to make sure he has a very good surgeon and practice for the surgery, because he's older and because of his breed type.
To the right place for support, information and understanding from those of us who have been there. It's always a kick in the gut to get this kind of diagnosis but it's also reassuring to know that things can be done to remove the pain and give your dog a chance at extended quality life.
Here's a link with some info
Well every dog is different and every recovery is different, basically recovering from the surgery itself is approximately 2 weeks. During that time it may be necessary to tweak the pain meds periodically to figure out the best way to manage your dog's pain.
As Jerry pointed out with the lynx, we have had plenty of dogs like your sweet pup to have the surgery and adapt to three very well. We currently have an adorable dachshund named Millie who is handling three legs like a champ. No, she's not built like a bulldog but she is a unique build when it comes to amputation.
You'll want to put non-slip scatter rugs down for traction if you have Hardwood floors. The first two weeks should be just very very short least potty breaks and then back into bed for rest. It may take your pup several days to start getting his sea legs. Some dogs hop along faster than others. So don't make comparisons, especially if your pup is a little bit older. You can download some of the ebooks And you can navigate through the site and search what to expect during recovery.
If you've been able to have your pup evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon, that would be ideal. They can give you the reassurance you need that your dog is a good candidate for surgery. Should you decide to amputate it is best to keep them at a 24/7 fully staffed Clinic. He will need to spend at least one night there possibly two.
Will be here to help you navigate through recovery and overcome any hurdles that may come up, as well as celebrate all of the victories and his progress. Oh, what's your pup's name?
Update when you can and let us know how we can best support you.
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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