Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Before being berated as horrible dog owners, let me explain... In December 2012 our 12 year old, Xolo (Mexican hairless) was diagnosed with a mast cell tumor on her left rear/hip. She is missing her left front leg. We adopted her with three legs and heartworms, so we have no idea how she lost her leg or her previous lifestyle before adopting her. All we know is that she was picked up as a stray and never claimed.
In December 2012 we had the mast cell tumor removed, was told that it had clean margins, and her oncologist was optimistic. She underwent 6 weeks of daily radiation treatment. 4 months later in April 2013, the tumor was back in the same exact spot as before. This time I caught it early, as I checked her nearly everyday, which is easy to do since she has no hair. It was maybe a bit smaller than a bb. We had it removed a second time and again oncologist said it had clean margins and was optimistic. We also did a month long course of steroids, hoping that would shrink any cells that may have been left behind.
Here we are in June, 2 month later, just 2 weeks shy of finishing steroid treatment and it is back again. Same spot, just a bit lower. Our doctor seems eager to do a third surgery, and says he can cut into muscle this time, as long as we are aware that could render her immobile for up to 6 weeks, as he would be taking muscle from her left hip and leg, when she is missing her left front leg.
My husband and I have agreed that we cannot in good faith continue to treat her so aggressively. With heartworms, each time she goes under anesthesia we take a huge risk of cardiac arrest. This will be her third surgery in 6 months. She is a tiny, 11 lbs. dog, and the last surgery she looked like she had been cut in two. The incision stretched from her back bone around to her belly.
She now fears the vets office, fights not to go in and trembles. And the fact we are surgically manipulating a leg, when her spare has already been blown. And she's 12 years old. It is unfair to her and selfish of us. I feel like we are fighting nature, and its a losing battle. We have decided to do no further treatment but to sustain quality of life.
Our vet could offer little advice on what to expect or how long we have with her. So my question is, has anyone else out there chosen not to treat a mast cell, or any cancer for that matter. And what was your experience and results?
Jessica, nobody here will berate you, I know you'll find this community to be full of the most non-judgmental group of good people anywhere. Not everyone who comes here chooses to amputate, or do any kind of chemotherapy, so no matter what you decide to do know that we will support you in that decision. Only you know what's best for her, we are not here to judge, promise.
There are lots of people here with mast cell tumor experience, I know they will chiime in. Do a search for it and you will see that there is a wide range of experience in how people dealt with recurring tumors.
I'm curious though, has your doctor recommended amputation now? Or does he only want to do another surgery to try to excise the tumor? If he's offered amputation as an option, what does he feel about her candidacy for life on three legs? With her size, that leg that's given her trouble may not be such an issue. Lots of Tripawds have had previous surgeries on other legs prior to (and even after) becoming amputees.
Have you sought out a second opinion? It sounds to me like you are doubting your current doctor's choice of treatment. When this happens, another opinion can mean all the difference. Is your current vet a board-certified oncologist? If not, that is what I would recommend next.
Thanks so much for joining us here, your future posts won't require approval. Hang in there for answers from others, you'll get them soon.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Jessica, I'm so sorry Xolo and you are going thru this. I know that it is not an easy decision to just let nature take it's course. Only you and your family know Xolo best and if you think it is too much for him to pursue further treatment that's ok. You won't be judged for that. It is great that you adopted a tripawd with heartworms and gave him a chance at a better life. Alot of people would never consider doing that.
My 12 year old American Eskimo dog Matti was diagnosed with most likely having liver cancer. Vet said that by the time symptoms appear it is basically too late to do much treatment. I could have put her thru exploratory surgery but decided with her age I would give her liver support supplements and let time do it's thing. Most people would probably think I was cruel, too. She was 10 years old when I adopted her and like you I didn't know any of her history. 7 months later the liver failure progressed to the point where I had to set her free. But those last 7 months we lived it up like there was no tomorrow.
Best wishes,
Marla and Daisy
My Two Tripawds...Biscuit 
and Spirit Daisy 
She is already missing a front leg, so a rear aputation is not a option for us. That is why I am concerned that taking muscle from her rear leg is going a bit further than I feel is humane. And it is more in her hip than leg, but to get clean margins would require cutting deep in all diameters into the muscle.
We are in Atlanta, our vet sent us to a oncologist at UGA in Athens. The oncologist and his group of surgeons have been in charge of her treatment thus far. Her oncologist, previously wouldn't cut into the muscle, but is now willing if we are. Her routine vet is on board with what ever we decide. I kind of believe, oncologist want to treat cancer, surgeons want to preform surgery, thats what they do, but when do you draw the line with enough is enough. The tumor has been removed twice in 6 months, with radiation, steriods, and holistic diet, and continues to return. I want her with me forever and would go to the ends of the earth for her. She is my best friend and companion, and I cannot put my friend through another round of harsh treatments, of surgerys and radiation. We are done, we have thrown in the towel. She is overall happy and healthy. Just like she has no idea she has three legs, she shows no notice of having cancer. I want to keep her this way. It is the bravest thing I've ever done, to put ones happiness before my own.
Oh my gosh forgive me, I'm at work, I should have read your post more closely, I didn't see that she was already a Tripawd.
So you've gotten some great care for her, she has a great diet, and it sounds to me like your heart is speaking to you and saying no more. That's OK. Most folks have to make choices like this at some point for their animals, either because of old age or cancer. It's a hard line to draw but once you can do it with confidence it is a very empowering, freeing feeling.
I just want to throw one more thing out there since you are already a fan of holistic thinking: have you ever heard of the holistic vet Dr. Charles Loops? He's based out of South Carolina but does phone consultations. Dr. Loops treats quite a few Tripawds here and have given them a superior quality of life with non-invasive homeopathic therapies. Here is a some information about Dr. Loops. Scroll through the posts to see who's had success with him, and his main information is the last one.
Lastly, find a quiet place, breathe, and have a talk with Xolo, ask her what she wants. I think you'll find the answer.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
I don't know why you'd think anyone would berate you; it sounds to me like you guys have done everything and more for your girl. Unfortunately, I can't offer too much advice, as I was never in the predicament you are now. Perhaps there is some type of supplement that could help her out? I don't know if you've had that conversation with your doctors yet, maybe that is an option? Whatever you decide to do, it will be the right decision for your girl, because you will make it out of love. Your girl has already been through a lot of challenges. I'm not saying it's time to give up and throw in the towel; but maybe something alternative to surgery could help out a bit. I understand not wanting to put her under again. She's been through a lot. Hopefully some of the vets on this site will chime in and offer some advice or alternative treatments for Xolo. Sending positive thoughts to your girl!!
When you ask if anyone has chosen not to treat mast cell, I think immediately of our member Karen, companion to Spirit Maggie the tripug. Karen's other pug, Tani, has mast cell tumors. I'm not sure how long Tani has been living with mast cell tumors, but she's had several removed and I believe that Karen has stopped removing them. Tani, like Xolo, is not a youngster. Karen just wants Tani to enjoy her life and not constantly need "treatment."
I will send Karen a note and let her know you're asking these questions. She's got loads of info and support.
Whatever you decide for Xolo, as long as it's done out of love and a desire to do what is best for her, will be the right choice. I absolutely know no one here will say anything different. You know Xolo. You know what matters to her. The vet created the same anxiety in my dog, and I would have made the same decision.
Shari
From abandoned puppy to Tripawd Warrior Dude, Dakota became one of the 2011 February Furballs due to STS. Our incredibly sweet friend lived with grace and dignity till he impulsively raced over the Bridge on 12-15-12.
Dakota's thoughtful and erudite blog is at http://shari.tr.....pawds.com/
Jessica, first know what a wonderful job you are doing---and have done forgot pup! You are icrediby devoted and diligent in her care you are her best dvoate.
As you already know, it IS about quality...period...end of story! I think you made a very spot on statement about vets a d surgeons and "what they do" with the best of. the tions. But what YOU do group your up is what really matters.
You still ave a lot of who derful time to spoil, love and the. spoil and love so e. ore! No. e can be accurate on to eframes..no one k owe. But what you DO know is you have given your pup the BET life possible--and are still doing so. Throw I g I. the towel is in o way the same as making a decision out of love for your dog and doing g what's in his best interest. That's called u co ditinal and selfless love and we all bow down to you for that.
Changing your approach is not giving up, T's moving forward with the best option for your dog.
And must so you'll k ow, we have some really, really, very long ropes here that we're toss I g out to you right. ow. Catch it! Oops....let's toss it again.... here co es......GREAT CATCH!! We are all n the other end holding you so you won't loose your grip. We are all had for you and won't let you go.
Surrou ding you wit peace, calm and lots of (((((((((((Hugs)))))))))))))
Sally and Happy Hannan
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!
I don't have experience with mast cell tumors, but first of all you seem like one of the BEST pet pawrents out there. Never let anyone tell you that you are a bad parent for looking out for the best interests in your kiddo. A lot of people wouldn't have done as much as you have already done.
I think that reading the Dog Cancer Survival Guide might help you, if you haven't read it already. It has great advice for every type of cancer, including holistic and traditional treatments, as well as advice for how to make decisions regarding treatments.
I wish you all the luck in the world, and whatever you choose it will be the best for Xolo.
Heather & Barret
Barret was diagnosed with Hemangiopericytoma May 16, 2013. Front left leg/scapula/pectoral muscle was amputated on June 11, 2013 and we've never looked back. Follow our story on http://barret.t.....pawds.com/ and read my column on That Pet Blog
I'm sorry I started out so defensive. It's just her oncologist gave me a hard time, and made me feel horrible. But like I said I feel like he just wants to do his job, which is to treat cancer, not really taking into account that his 'treatment' may kill or render my dog immobile. Her routine vet, said she supported what ever we decided, yet in the same conversation said we could always try radiation again. Our family and friends are baffled we aren't doing EVERYTHING we can do.
See, we had a tripawd before, Kodi, a lab mix, she passed in January 2012. When Kodi lost her leg in 2004, my husband and I were unmarried, young, and BROKE. We maxed out every credit card, borrowed from family, and took out a personal loan for her amputation and treatment. And when she got close to the end it was arthritis in her front leg that kept her down. We did laser and hydro treatments, continuously alternated pain meds because she would get immune to them if used for too long. We pulled out all the stops so to speak. But she had a stroke and slipped quietly away one morning. We didn't have difficult, life altering decisions to make. With Iris, our xoloitzcuintli, we have done EVERYTHING. We gave it a good fight. Even my husband wants to keep going. We had to really sit down and discuss, is another surgery what Iris would want, if you were 80 something years old would you want to do this a third time?
Our minds are made up, no more surgeries, no more invasive or aggressive treatment. I am just grasping at straws. I am a facts kind of person. I need answers! I know in my heart there are none. Her doctor spits statistics and probability. 1 out of a 100 dogs, blah, blah, blah. What if my Iris is that one! Look at my dog! She has a name! She's not a number! She's got three legs! Shes 12 years old! She's a hairless Xolo! Her tongue dangles out! She has heartworms! She has HGE! She loves her blanket! She eats anything! She barks at everything! Tell me what is going to happen with MY dog! --This is about how the discussion with her doctor went. I left mad, angry, and hurt. I just don't want numbers I want to know the future.
Now that we have made a decision, and I am a bit more rational. I have made another appointment for a consult. Although I know I am going to be told the same thing, at least this time maybe i can listen more clearly and maybe not get clear cut answers, but come to my own conclusion to the answers I'm seeking.
We have also checked into Dr. Loops, and will definitely be calling him. I have always been uncertain with her diet, not sure if i was giving proper portions. Speaking to him feels like a new start. Reading the reviews of Dr. Loops, I don't think its a bad idea for our other 2 dogs to be on a natural diet as well. With all the cancer and other illness you see in pets, you have to wonder if its not the over processed dog food. My husband and I only eat organic why not our pets.
My husband and I have no children, losing Kodi was the hardest thing we ever faced as a family. Even our dogs grieved in their own way. One still recognizes her name if spoken. My husband a year and 1/2 later cannot talk about her with out getting upset to the point he has to vomit. It took me three weeks before I could go back to work. I know the inevitable outcome for all our dogs. But I think my husband and I are both scared to face it head on.
Aww Jessica if I could give you a big hug right now through the computer I would.
You and your husband are two awesome people who obviously love your animals a lot. And you've given this tons of thought. Your families are also very animal loving, obviously. It's kinda odd cause most people here have the opposite issue with their relatives -- they don't get why they are spending any kind of money to help their animals in situations like this.
It's hard for humans to let go of being in control. Humans rarely realize that control over the future is an illusion. It takes difficult times like this to learn that, and hopefully, accept it.
Whatever you decide to do or not do, we are here for you. Treating cancer, or not, is a personal choice and the answers are different for every dog and every pack. Being broke and in debt over vet bills adds to the heartache and that is not the way any dog wants their humans to be.
Let us know what the other consults say when you can. Hugs to you all.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
No one should make you feel horrible for your decision. You have seen what Xolo has gone through and she seems to have gone through a lot in her short 12 years. If she is happy, and giving you an overflowing cup of love every day, then you, and only you and your hubby and family should decide how to proceed. If you decide not to continue with the removal, that is ok too. I hear so many horror stories of vets etc who just drain people for money because we all know that we would rob Fort Knox to help our best friends. We would never say that you were a bad dog owner, a bad person, never! We have all been in the same boat at one time or another, sometimes it's a little tug boat and sometimes it's a battleship depending on what our sweet pups & kitties are going through. She loves you to the moon and back, and you do her. Enjoy each day.. and love her to bits!
Christine..... with Franklin in her heart ♥
Franklin, he was the Happiest Dog on Three Legs! Diagnosed 09/26/2012 with Osteosarcoma, amputated 12/4/2012. Had a wonderful 5 1/2 months painfree until he ran for the Bridge on 5/15/2013. Always in my heart, and always a guardian angel of my pack... You can follow his Tripawd Adventures, before and after, in my blog, Frank'n'Farter!
Thank you so much for everyone's concerns and great suggestions!! What a great group! Iris is not our first tripawd and definitely won't be our last! A home isn't a home without a tripawd! I am so glad I found you guys!
I didn't get the answers I was looking for. I wanted someone to tell me, we were going to be fine. We have X amount of time, X amount of years, and I could mark it on my calendar and wait. But I realize that just isn't possible. Every dog responds differently.
But what I did find here is the validation I severely needed. I have been back and forth in my own mind. Are we doing the right thing? It feels like everyone and the odds are against us, and we are going against the grain. I didn't know it, but I think I needed to hear some positive for our decision versus all the negative.
Meanwhile, Iris munches on her carrot snacks barking at squirrels out the window. We have always joked that no one ever told her she has three legs. So we are going to keep the cancer a secret too. She is perfectly content with life, and we are going to try to start living her example. Each day will be the best day of our lives!!
I will update you guy on our consult with Dr. Loops and her Oncologist at UGA. But what ever will be will be, and we will accept it with grace.
I would Jul through here and hug you to if I could!
BRACO! BRAVO! BRAVO! For having the courage to love Iris enough to just let her be Iris!! And being Iris sounds like a BLAST:-) 
You rock Iris and your parents are superstar examples of how to process what's in your dog's best interest!
And sweet Jessica, the lessons your Iris is teaching about "control" and wanting to know the future..........oh my goodness!! You get it Jessica!! You get it!
If indeed, we are presented with "circumstances" to learn and grow and be more loving and present..............you must earned your Masters Degree!!
Stay here with us....we are all here for you and we understand. We understand!
You and our husband give each other a big hug for being the best pawparents! O, I'm not joking.....no one's looking...give each other a hug!! WOW! Kissing too!! Sorry, I was peeking:-)
Would love to see a photo of Iris and Jodi too!
Sally and 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!
Jessica, I sent you a private message about emailing with Spirit Maggie's mom. I hope you saw it. Karen is a wealth of info about this particular disease.
As for wanting to know the future, I used to think I wanted that, too. Now I've decided I couldn't handle it. Remember in the movie "Men in Black" when Agent K says, "There’s always an Arquillian Battle Cruiser, or a Corillian Death Ray, or an intergalactic plague that is about to wipe out all life on this miserable little planet, and the only way these people can get on with their happy lives is that they Do… Not… Know about it!”
That's me. If I knew what was hanging over my head, I could not enjoy what time I have left. Live each day to the fullest, go to bed with as few regrets as possible, hope you get to do it again tomorrow. Apologize when you should. Forgive when you can. Wag more, bark less. Be More Dog .
Shari
From abandoned puppy to Tripawd Warrior Dude, Dakota became one of the 2011 February Furballs due to STS. Our incredibly sweet friend lived with grace and dignity till he impulsively raced over the Bridge on 12-15-12.
Dakota's thoughtful and erudite blog is at http://shari.tr.....pawds.com/
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