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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Hi everyone!
First I would just like to say how wonderful it is to have this website! We are obviously new to joing but we are finding comfort in knowing that there are many other pawrents out there who love their dogs just as much as we do.
We have 2 amazing dogs - Duke is our 14yr old chocolate lab who is still going strong despite his age and Maguire our 10yr old Border Collie Lab cross. Maguire came into our lives one rainy day. He was found with 5 of his brothers and sisters on the side of a road. We scooped them up and within one hour had them all placed in loving homes. At this point our house was full with 2 dogs and 2 cats but I couldn't resist this black fluffy puppy with a perfect white star on his chest and four white paws. It was as they say it was love at first sight. He has brought so much joy into our lives and has more personality than most people I know. I can't imagine life without either of them.
Back in September we noticed (shortly after a walk) that Maguire had a small gumball size lump on his front right leg (near his wrist). We watched it carefully for 2 days and when it wasn't going away we took him to see our vet. We did a fine needle aspirate of the lump and from there it went downhill. What we found was the presence of mast cells and after further testing it was determined that Maguire had a stage 2 mast cell tumour.
The tumour grew so quickly after doing a biopsy that surgery no longer was an option as there was not enough margins to remove the tumour successfully. We immediately started him on chemotherapy under the supervision of an oncologist. He remained on the chemo for multiple rounds until the tumour began to grow again. We tried another type of chemo which also did not have much effect. About one month ago we decided to stop the chemo and re-assess the situation. We were left with only a few options: 1. Try Palladia (growth inhibitor) 2. Do nothing 3. Amputate. As much as we would like to try the palladia we simply cannot afford it, even after our vet offered to sell it at cost to us. Doing nothing just isn't an option either as it simply would break my heart. So that brings us to amputation. Something that honestly I never thought I would ever consider and I am still struggling with whether or not it is the right decision.
I don't want to make this decision out of desperation and fear of losing him. I want to be certain it is the right thing for him. Our regular vet has said that when the tumour ruptures (and it will most likely very soon) we will have 2 choices - to put him to sleep or to amputate. Our oncologist feels that amputation at this point won't be worth it as the cancer may come back elsewhere and our only option left is Palladia (the expensive drug) or stop all treatment and just make him comfortable.
I guess I worry about amputating at his age (10yrs old) and I worry about how it will affect him overall. Will it change his personality? Will he be depressed? Will he hate me for having made the decision to take his limb?? Will the cancer come back somewhere else and then basically we will have taken his leg for nothing. I am so scared about making the wrong decision.
I should mention that despite the tumour he is his normal happy self. He still chases dogs at the back fence, hops on the bed, runs up the stairs and plays with us and with our other dog Duke. He is eating well and healthy in all other aspects.
Any support or guidance would be so appreciated. Hearing from those who have been through similar situations would be incredible.
Thanks in advance,
Kara & Bill
I made the decision to amputate Coopers left front leg a little over 9 months ago. It released Cooper from pain, and saved him from a shattered leg, one bone was already eaten through by cancer. Cooper lived for 9 months after his surgery, no chemo or radiation. Just a new diet and more love than he had ever had ( and he was loved before the cancer ) Cooper left us 3 days ago.. and I do not have one regret for having amputated. Cooper was 9 at the time and celebrated his 10th birthday last January 12th. We bonded in ways I never knew possible after his surgery. Good luck, and ask your boy, he will tell you what to do if you look into his eyes and listen. Cooper was not depressed, he walked until the day he left on his own , 10 and ahalf years old and over 100 pounds. He never ever resented me for taking his leg, he always wiggled with joy when I entered the room... good luck and keep us posted!
Coopsdad
Coopsdad/ Kenneth Blackburn
http://cooper.t.....ipawds.com
the monkeydogs only THINK they have invaded the tripawd state
P.S - the cancer may come back somewhere else, it did with Cooper , it showed up in his lungs and that is what finally took him, but again it was not a wasted effort, Cooper was going to be put down last October and we enjoyed almost another year with him due to the surgery. Nothing is for sure - at Coopers and your dogs age, they could be completely cured and die the next day of old age, but I would still not consider it a waste.
Coopsdad
Coopsdad/ Kenneth Blackburn
http://cooper.t.....ipawds.com
the monkeydogs only THINK they have invaded the tripawd state
Welcome Kara, Bill, Duke and of course Maguire!
S-c-a-r-y S-t-u-f-f !!! Amputation sounds so HORRIBLE! We totally understand!
So, with that said, YES, get Maguire's sick leg amputated! He is already 3 legged so actually you are just getting rid of the pain.
Sick Leg = Pain. No Sick Leg = Pain free!
Dog's aren't cosmetic like we are! They are just happy to be pain free! They just adjust their walking and hop! And they never ever, ever hold it against us for helping them, which is what you are doing!
I had a three-legged dog for 12 years. (born with a birth defect) She, of course didnt know any better but she never acted like she was jealous of 4 legged dogs either! 
Others will come along and help you better that have dealt with mast cell. But in the time I've been here, I've never had one person say they regretted getting the amputation. I think I've gone through hundreds of amputation on the forums! It's hard at first after the amputation but once they are healed, it's fine!
Wishing you all the best for Maquire. And just remember Maguire is 3-legged now!
Comet - 1999 to 2011
She departed us unexpectedly January 23, 2011 at the age of 12 1/2.
She was born with a deformed front leg and a tripawd all of her life.
Welcome to the group that nobody wants to be part of! So sorry to hear about Maguire's cancer, but it sounds like you guys have been great pawrents in helping to make him feel better!
Amputation is a big, scary thing. But one of the mantras around here is that dogs aren't attached to limbs like humans are, and it's generally harder on us than it is on them! I was skeptical at first, but it's definitely proven to be true with my Max, who lost his leg due to valley fever. Even though he's had a rough time post-op, he still gives me the same big doggy smile and is determined to hop around and get around just as well, if not better, than he did when he had a bum leg. I can genuinely say that I have not had any regrets about the surgery and even a week post-surgery, you can tell that he's feeling tons better. (Even if he gets grumpy at me for shoving all his pills down his throat!)
Many of the dogs around here are dealing with cancer, and it seems like the mindset here is that if amputation will help alleviate pain and put your dog at ease, then go for it-- and I agree with this 100%. The most important thing is to make sure our doggy friends are comfortable and happy, even if it's for a limited time because of cancer.
We'll all be sending good thoughts for you guys and your furry family! Keep us updated on how Maguire is doing 🙂
Julie, mom to Spirit Max the Pomeranian,
the bravest poofle dog who ever lived!
This may sound harsh and I really don't mean for it to. Find a vet who will take all the time you need, who will answer every question you can ask, and who believes in his/her heart and soul that amputation is the only way to stop the pain and give them quality of life.
Our diagnosing vet was not on board with amputation because she didn't believe Trouble was a good candidate for surgery - Trouble was a bit porky! I had a consult the next evening with the vet who would do her surgery and treat her for the next 27 1/2 months. Without the consult, I would likely have had 2-3 months.
It is a horrible decision to have to make - one none of us wants to make. Follow your heart, there are no wrong decisions, but the decision to be pain free for whatever time is left is amputation.
Shanna & Spirit Trouble ~ Trouble gained her wings 3/16/2011, a 27 1/2 month cancer survivor, tail wagging. RIP sweetheart, you are my heart and soul. Run free at Rainbow Bridge.
The November Five - Spirits Max, Cherry, Tika, Trouble & Nova. 11/2008 - 3/2013 An era ends as Queen Nova crossed the Bridge.
Hi Macquire and family!
We all know how agonizing this decision is, and how you're constantly second guessing yourself. Every dog is different, every situation has a different outcome, but I can share my story. Roxy was a stray who showed up in our yard. Best guess is she was about 6 years old, but in very bad shape. About 7 months later she was diagnosed with Grade III Mast Cell. I agonized for a month and a half about surgery, going back and forth, making an appointment for amputation, then canceling. The decision to amputate is so much harder when you're dealing with MCT because there is no pain to get rid of. But in the end, I decided doing nothing would only make me feel horrible because I wouldn't have given her a fighting chance. If we amputated the leg, at least she would have the opportunity to fight. All the statistics about Grade III MCT said she would likely be gone in 2-4 months time. We had her leg amputated on March 2, 2010. We were blessed to have just celebrated her 17 month ampuversary a few days ago. I should also mention that we have seen the flip side of that here at tripawds. There was a beautiful golden named Skyler with Grade III MCT who had an amputation two days after Roxy. Unfortunately Skyler's pawrents had to say goodbye within a few months. Even still, I don't think they had any regrets about amputation. Hopefully you'll hear from them so they can tell their own story.
It hasn't all been peachy with Roxy. She's had strained muscles in other legs and been forced to hop around on 2 legs for a couple days, and yes, she got around very well on 2 legs. Now we're fighting arthritis. But she's here, and we're loving her every minute. I'm so glad I gave her the chance to fight. You never know, when you're dealing with cancer, when you'll have to say goodbye. People always say here at tripawds that you have to make the best decision for your dog because only YOU know what is best for your dog. Trust your gut.
I'm sure this hasn't been too helpful with two very different stories. But I think it's important that you see that statistics are just averages. They don't necessarily have anything to do with your pup. Good luck with your decision. Just remember above all to love your pup every minute!
Leslie
P.S. I don't know what was going on in my head when I typed Maguire's name in my first post. Sorry about that. I tried to edit it, but my computer is acting up and won't let me.
Hi,
You're situation and decision to amputate is far more complicated that that of most who come to this site for guidance. The usual questions, fears and concens are easily addressed. Most dogs do fine on three legs, despite size, age, etc. Dog's don't care whether they have 3 legs or four. They don't process the loss as humans do. They simply get up and on with things.
You will hear many warnings about the first two post-op weeks being very difficult….please know that while the advice is all solid, and experiences common…it is not always the case. My 12 y/o arthritic dog never had a bad day and was up and active immediately. So much depends on your attitude and pain medication management….more is not always beneficial.
Your position is more complex. Pain relief is not the issue as with OSA. Your dog has an aggressive cancer, that was not locally removed. That likely increases the probability of metastasis that has only been tempered by chemo. Has Maguire had a recent abdominal ultrasound? Do you have more specific information regarding the grade of the tumor? There are high and low grade 2 tumors. What was the mitotic index? You will find this information on the original pathology report.
It is worth sitting down and discussing these specifics with your oncologis (and surgeon). It may not be the case that he is anti-amputation in general, but may be able to give you a clearer picture of Maguire's particular issues. It sounds like your regular vet is presenting the two realistic options you may be facing, so you are better prepared to make a decision.
As difficult as it is, It seems you have to separate your questions and fears. The mechanical/conceptual amputation uncertainty is the easy part. Your dilemma lies with the tumor type and it's behavior. You have to consider whether amputation at this point could actually precipitate a rapid release of histamine resulting in catastrophic GI or coagulation complications. Are there already obvious mets? It is possible the risks of amputation at this time may not outweigh the benefits. The quality of his life, no matter how long that may be, should be your guide.
I'm so sorry you are facing this and wish you the best with these tough choices. Whatever you decide will be what you know is right for Maguire and your lives. Be at peace with them.
Cynthia
gayle is a lab mix who lost her right front leg to a soft tissue sarcoma (grade three) february 2010. our vet initially thought she might have trouble due to her age (she was 10 at the time) and size (about 70 lbs). she did great. we did five rounds of chemo after the amputation and she continues to battle. this past december we discovered some evidence of oral melanoma, which we are currently addressing - and again, she remains a happy, brave girl.
don't doubt the capacity of your pup. get all the info you can, and trust your gut. if you are not really 'solid' with the current vet, get a second opinion. having a great vet is priceless. our dr. moser has saved gayle for us three times now - an angel.
good luck and know we are all here for you, as we have all been where you are.
charon & gayle
Life is good, so very, very good!!! Gayle enjoyed each and every moment of each and every wonderful day (naps included). She left this world December 12, 2011 – off on a new adventure.
Love Never Ends
Hi Kara and Bill,
Welcome to Tripawds- sorry you have found yourself here…
My pug Maggie lost her left rear leg to a MCT- grade II, she was 7.5 years old at the time. We did lots of tests before deciding on amputation- lymph node aspirates, abdominal ultrasound- no sign of the cancer anywhere but the tumor itself. AFTER the amp, the lymph node in the leg was biopsied and lots of cancerous mast cells were found. I chose to do chemo- although Mag's prognosis WITH chemo was 6 to 9 months. She lived almost 4 years and passed from a second, unrelated cancer. She really beat the odds- but it does happen. And look at Roxy above- no chemo and still going 17 months after her amp.
Cynthia is right- for those of us facing mast cell cancer pain is not usually a deciding factor. I was also faced the probability that the tumor would ulcerate and create a wound that would never heal. It was hard to reconcile no limp and no pain with the need for amputation!
Sorry- I can't write more now- I am limited on typing stamina at the moment. Please read Maggie's Story for the details of our cancer journey.
We are about quality of life here- not quantity. You have to decide what is best for you and Maguire to give him the best life. Make your decisions with his best interest in your heart and you will not be wrong. Like all of us here- you make the best decision you can, and move forward with no regrets. You will never know what the 'other' choice would have brought!!
Karen and the pugapalooza
Hi Everyone,
Sorry for the late reply, needless to say we have had a lot to think about! However, we can't thank everyone enough for the replies.
I have probably read every article/blog/forum discussion on this site in addition to speaking with family, friends, vets and oncologists. We have gone through all of his labs/reports and all the professionals feel that this is the right thing to do. However, despite all of the information the decision still seems impossible to make. I don't think I have ever cried this much.
So after an agonizing few weeks/months we have made the decision to go forward with the amputation. The surgery is scheduled for this Friday at 11am. We are absolutely terrified and still a little (and by a little I mean a lot) unsure. The main thing keeping me going is that throughout this emotional roller coaster Maguire has been there to wash away my tears (literally) and show me that he has so much life left in him in his playful and happy manner. He literally would be kicking his toy all around the house, sliding and running around like a puppy with short breaks to jump on the couch to console me then back to playtime! I pray every night that this surgery won't change him.
We still have a long list of questions that I plan to review with our vet tomorrow but perhaps some of you have some thoughts on some of them.
- Pre-operative and Post-operative advice?
- Did you all treat your beloved tripawds for phantom limb pain (perhaps with Gabapentin)?
- Do you recommend we get a harness for Maguire?
- How long should we keep him away from stairs/steps?
- Icing the wound
- Any other tips to keep him comfortable?
- Rehabilitation – what can we expect? What can we do to help with recovery? Exercises? Massage?
Although, I am sorry that there are many other people such as yourselves out there battling with stories/thoughts of amputation I am so thankful to have a community of pet parents who know how we are feeling. It was so sad but yet so encouraging to read everyones stories (especially those who also were up against MCTs like Maguire).
We will keep you posted!
Thanks,
Kara, Bill and of course Maguire
xoxo
Kara, Bill and Maguire,
First, let me apologize for not formally welcoming you here! Welcome! Welcome! Your original post was on my birthday and we were out that night celebrating. I'm so sorry I missed it!
As you can see, we all understand how hard of a decision this is, but you have done all of the right things to reach your own conclusions about whether or not amputation is the right one for Maguire.
I'm going to recommend that you check out our Required Reading List and if you're so inclined, our downloadable e-book, "Three Legs & A Spare, a Canine Amputation Handbook," which can both answer your questions listed above. Of course all of our members here will be hoppy to share their experiences too, so get ready! We also have some excellent videos and suggestions about rehab from our friends at California Animal Rehabilitation, check them out.
Good luck this Friday! Please keep us posted OK?
P.S. Hope you don't mind that I moved your post to this discussion but I felt since you're still in the diagnosis stages, it was appropriate.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
There isn't a person here who doesn't understand your apprehension even after making the decision to amputate. I had only 30 hours from the initial diagnosis, second opinion, and dropping Trouble off for surgery. I talked to her all the way to the vet that morning and then cried all the way to work after dropping her off. Our vet was awesome and spoke to my husband several times through the morning - after her x-rays, just prior to surgery, and post surgery. The vet tech called late that evening with an update. We picked her up two days later. She looked to me to tell her the new Trouble was good with me, and as soon as she saw I accepted her, she never looked back.
Recovery is difficult even for those who have an easy time. It is a time of adjustment - to meds, to the new norm. In many ways it is more difficult for the human than the dog. Your first instinct is to stay awake and watch them sleep - fight the urge. Sleep when they sleep. An exhausted care giver is not a good thing. You will wake when they do. For 27 1/2 months I woke every time Trouble moved. It is just like having a baby in the house.
Prepare your house if you have wood or tile flooring. They need traction to get around safely and confidently. Definitely get a harness after the wound heals. I didn't have one for several months, and oh what a difference when I did finally get one. It just makes it so much easier for helping them in and out of vehicles, and taking them on unfamiliar territory. Check the angel exchange, you can sometimes pick one up there, particularly if you are willing to wait a bit.
Trouble had no phantom pain , and her wound needed no care at all. We have no stairs, so I'll let some of the others jump in on those questions.
Take deep breaths between now and Friday and try to stay calm. You've made the decision - that's the hard part. Have faith everything will be ok. We will all be here to cheer you on.
Shanna & Spirit Trouble ~ Trouble gained her wings 3/16/2011, a 27 1/2 month cancer survivor, tail wagging. RIP sweetheart, you are my heart and soul. Run free at Rainbow Bridge.
The November Five - Spirits Max, Cherry, Tika, Trouble & Nova. 11/2008 - 3/2013 An era ends as Queen Nova crossed the Bridge.
Hi again everyone,
Just wanted to give an update on Maguire...
Maguire had his amputation surgery this Thursday. We were a wreck all day!! The surgeon was very pleased with how the procedure went. There were no complications and he handled it very well. He was slow to wake up after the surgery so he was very groggy and out of it when we brought him home (the same day). I will be honest seeing him this way (scared and out of it) was very emotional for us. I cried on and off all night long and wondered if we had made the right decision.
By the morning he proved to me we did in fact do the right thing. He shocked me when he sat up on his own for the first time. Then a few hours later he amazed me when he stood up and hopped a few steps for the first time. He has continued to surprise me with every passing hour. In his first day post surgery he was eating full meals, hopping outside to relieve himself and he was giving out kisses and wagging his tail. On the second day when I opened the back door to let him out to do his business he saw neighbors passing by our yard and he ran to chase them! In fact we have been trying hard to keep him still and not move around too much.
I sit here 72 hours post surgery in awe of my dog. He is truly remarkable. I am praying that he continues to progress in his recovery. I am now very hopeful that he will do just fine on 3 legs! My husband, my other dog Duke, myself and Maguire have made our basement (with a walk out to the yard for easy access) into a recovery room and we have not left the basement since Thursday. It is basically a giant slumber party. We wanted to keep him away from any stairs for at least 7 days which is why we holed up in the basement ...do you all think that is enough time or should we wait longer?
One other thing though is that we have noticed that the skin (when standing) around his sternum is very flabby almost seems fluid filled. This makes me wonder if he has a seroma however his incision is beautiful - it is clean, no leaking at all and looks as though it is healing nicely. Any suggestions? We noticed it last night and our vet is closed today. I did call another vet who said to just keep an eye on it and if we are still worried or if anything changes to take him to our regular vet tomorrow.
Thanks everyone for all of your advice and support! It has meant so much to us.
Kara, Bill & Maguire
xoxo
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