We just found out, after extensive testing, that one of our fur family babies needs to have a rear leg amputated.  He has cancer and the doctors suggest we perform an amputation because the cancer has NOT spread to his lungs or stomach and his blood-work is perfect.  The doctors therefore believe that his quality of life will be much better once he is out of pain and no longer needs medications to make him comfortable.  He has been getting a bit on the aggressive side with our other dogs and we all feel that it is because of the pain he is in.  Once we started him on his pain medication regimen he has become a bit better but his appetite is still nil.  How can I be assured that he will regain an appetite once we follow through with this procedure??  I am not really asking for an answer I am just thinking out loud.  We are going to have the amputation done - but I am nervous about it none-the-less.  We have to schedule the surgery - I have to admit I am dragging my feet a bit. Its a strange feeling to follow through on this procedure.   Ari is an 11 year old sheltie who has lost a ton of weight this past year - and we have finally an answer as to why. 

Anticipating an emotional roller coaster ride - but we love our boy and only want what is best for him. 

Thanks for listening - Linda