Mickey, we are so glad that you made it to the Forums, hope everything is working well for you now.

We are so sorry about Dakota. As you can see, Pam, our resident vet, has awesome advice.

As far as how large dogs handle amputation . . . well, all you have to do is check out our Giant Breeds Gallery to see how fabulously big dogs get around on three legs. Whether front or rear leg amputees, these dogs live fantastic, enriching lives as Tripawds. In fact, Pam's dog Tazzie is a giant breed, and are numerous ones here in the Forums. Just do a search for Giant Breed Dogs.

We know how hard it is to wonder if what you are doing for Dakota is fair, or if you are only doing it for your own sake. Lots of Tripawd pawrents battle that dilemma when first faced with it. But once you see how well Giant Breeds can get around after surgery, there is no question of fairness. If giving Dakota  extra time on eath with you, pain free and enjoying life isn't fair, then I don't know what is. If she is in pain now, then the amputation will be a huge help and assist her with getting out of pain and getting on with life.

And, as you can see here, dogs don't have issues with being tripawds, it's the humans that do. We just go on and live life day to day, enjoying every second like we always have, three legs or not. We do not measure time either, so whether Dakota gets an extra two months or two years, all that matters is that those moments were filled with love, play and happiness.

Good luck next week. Please keep us posted and let us know what you decide to do OK? If you want to chat before then, we are here for you.

Best wishes,

Spirit Dog Jerry, Rene & Jim

Thanks for sending the photos Mickey! Dakota is looking pretty happy to be out of pain there.

Best wishes for a speedy full recovery!