Hi Gracie and mom, welcome. I'm sorry you are dealing with this tough situation but rest assured you've come to the best place for help. No, you are not crazy. Sometimes amputation is the best option for a dog in a situation like yours.

When it comes to leg tumors it can be really hard to get clean margins in the best of circumstances. It sounds like your vet thinks she is a good candidate for surgery? Tell us more about her. How old/young is she? It sounds like she's quite a sensitive girl too, you seem very in tune with her.

Yes, amputation is a huge step but it's always worse for the people than the pets. They handle it so well compared to us! A dog just wants to get rid of the bad pain and all the hassles associated with repeated surgery attempts (I've talked to human amputees who have been in the same situation and feel the exact same way!). Sometimes it's just for the best and then you can all get on with life.

Have you seen Jerry's Required Reading List or our What to Expect articles yet? I recommend going there to get some questions answered but please do feel free to post whatever questions you have about life on three legs and we will do our best to answer them.

Thanks for joining, your future posts won't need approval so post away.