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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OMG! Our 6 year old pit mix has a mast cell cancer on her back leg. None of the options is good. We are hesitant to do amputation as it doesn't necessarily mean a cure. We wonder if we do nothing, will she have the same limited outcome? None guarantee a good prognosis. Our Boots is very athletic and fast, loves to swim. We just can't imagine her doing all the same things with 3 legs. Can she get through the doggie door???
We are waiting to get oncology vet notes (2nd opinion) so we can talk to our regular vet since she knows Boots and us.
Donna
Hi Donna, I'm so glad you decided to post here! Thank you.
None of us could imagine our dogs being on three legs. We totally understand your fears about her not being able to love life. But all you have to do is look around our videos, photos, and blogs, to see that yes, dogs can be totally happy on three legs! What's important is getting rid of the source of the pain. Sometimes amputation is the best way to do that. Recover is not a picnic, but once it's over, Boots will amaze you with how she bounces back and gets on enjoying life.
And one thing we learn is that no matter what, a prognosis is not a prediction, it's not guaranteed. Some dogs will outlive their prognosis and others will not. But what's important is to make that time we have left together quality, pain-free time. Check out our Tripawds Quality of Life Survey results for some insight.
Be sure to take these questions to ask your oncologist to your meeting. YAY that you are getting a second opinion by an expert!
And yes, amputee dogs can do doggy doors!
Stay tuned for feedback from others.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Yoir sweet girl sounds like a strong and fit gal who can has a Warrior type attitude. She won't let any ole' "prognosis" hold her back. She is her own dog and doesn't fit athe " mold" that goes in to statistics.
As far as dogs adjusting to three, almost everyone here had those doubts and felt so uncertain about their quailty on three. And we can assure you ahe can swim, run, figure out doggy door, and do everything she has done before. Dogs here do dock diving, agility work, nosework, go on hikes AND get spoiled more than they could ever imagine possible! Tripawds are so darn cute there is no way to not spoil them!
One of my favorite videos is a dog named Rusty who loves to "surf" in his pool. I'll try and find it
Once you gather all the information, do your research, talk to your Bet, you will develop a path forward that best for your girl. (What her name?) . You will feel a sense of relief in knowing there are good options to ensure a good quality pain free life for your pup.
So gather your info and then update here when you can. We can help you navigate through your thoughts process and answer any questions that may arise.
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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