Last May our 8 year old golden retriever was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in his right front leg.  We had the limb amputated and chose not to pursue chemotherapy.  We wanted him to be out of pain and have the best life possible for whatever time he had left.

The first week or two after the surgery had its ups and downs.  Initially he was just like his old self, though a little unsteady on three legs.  But the days where he was less active and didn't seem himself and just laid around were very hard to watch.  We questioned whether we had made the right decision and whether we made his life worse.  I had to keep telling myself that he just lost a leg and to be patient with his recovery. 

And he did make a full recovery.  He was back to his good old sweet, tail-wagging, fun loving self the second week after his surgery.  

I just wanted to share this for people who are going through the same thing and questioning what the best course is for thier dog.  If we had to do it again, I would absolutely make the same decision.

Kona made it 16 months with no signs of the cancer spreading - chest x-rays, spine, and limb x-rays were all clear.

Last night our sweet pup's heart failed and he passed away.  I knew this day would come but it doesn't make it any easier.  I am happy for the extra time we got to spend with our dog and being on three legs did not diminish it one bit. 

Here is a video of him two weeks after surgery so people can see what our beloved dogs are capable of:

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