Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat

Hi Steph and Gracie, welcome. Your future posts won't need to wait for approval so post away.

Just curious, but did your oncologist mention anything about the new injectable MCT treatment, Stelfonta? Sounds like she's not a candidate but I thought I'd ask. Also, electrochemotherapy may be another option. It doesn't get mentioned a lot because it's more commonly practiced overseas but there are some vets in the U.S. who are doing it with great results.

If amputation is the only option for her, and she's otherwise healthy, there's no reason why she can't do well on three legs. She's still so young and has a lotta farm living to do! Your biggest challenge will be to manage her activity so that she doesn't overdo things to the point where she is constantly injuring herself from over-use of that remaining rear leg. The Tripawds Foundation can pay for your first rehab visit , which is super helpful. A therapist can evaluate Gracie and explain to you what she is and is not capable of doing after limb loss, it's super educational so we hope if you do amputate, you'll take advantage of the program.

As you can see in this very small sample of articles about dogs with mast cell cancer, they do pretty darn well at any age and size. Also check out Jerry's Required Reading List and our What to Expect articles to learn about the ups and downs of recovery and life beyond.