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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Thanks Bonnie!
Tucker had surgery yesterday, it went well. The vet said the surgery went a little longer than normal because he's a big dog-95 pounds. I will be seeing him this afternoon and then picking him up on Saturday. 
You are welcome, Mel, and yes, Tucker is a big boy !! I am so happy to hear his surgery went well, and I know you will be very much looking forward to seeing him. Just remember to stay positive and happy, because it will be quite a shock to see him at first. If he senses any stress or negative thoughts, it may make him feel the same way. Treat him like nothing is wrong, and that everything is normal, and be EXTRA excited to see him. Labs are generally very happy and upbeat anyway, so at least we have that !!
Give us updates when you can, and I will be thinking of you and him today, as well as tomorrow when you bring him home.
Love,
Bonnie & Angel Polly
I saw Tucker this afternoon at the vet. He was up and moving around. I held it together while visiting him but then in the car I lost it. It was so hard to see him struggle with walking (hopping). Oh boy.....I'm sure it will get easier for him but my heart is breaking 
I know we did the right thing but gosh, this is hard.
Trust me, it is very hard at first, but I promise, it does get easier........it is much harder on us than it is on them, emotionally. You will be surprised how quickly they adjust and adapt. Recovery could be a bit rough for some pups, but most get through it with no difficulty. My Polly was fantastic through the amp surgery, she truly never missed a beat. Just keep as positive an attitude as possible because for them, that is very important.
We all have that question at the beginning with amp surgery......did I do the right thing or didn't I ? For me, as well as just about everyone here, we all know we did the right thing. If just to ease their pain and give them quality in their life, it is well worth it.
We all here will support you through this journey, so have no fear.....we have all treaded waters we didn't choose for sure, but did the best thing we could for our pups and kitties.
Let us know how things go tomorrow when you pick up your sweet big boy, we are here for you....
Love, Bonnie & Angel Polly
It's always harder on us than them. Things WILL get better. Just keep reminding yourself: Dogs don't look back, they don't have regrets, they don't wish for the future, they just want to feel good and make the most of every day they have. Talk about amazing role models!
Be strong. You can do it!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Hi there
You have learned the first important lesson...Tucker really will hop now...especially as a front leg amputee. 
As everyone else has said...it really does get better for everyone. I had someone at my house the other day to give me a quote on a new window. Adam (the glazier) was in the house for about 5 minutes before he even noticed that Tucker only has three legs. My Tucker now weighs 85 pounds as he had to lose some weight after his surgery. Other than having three legs and being a bit thinner...he is still the goofy chocolate Lab who I brought home ten years ago.
Rest tonight...the next few weeks may be a bit of a roller coaster.
Many hugs
Linda and Tucker
Thanks everyone for all your wonderful words of encouragement. It truly means the world to me. We got Tucker home and he is now resting.
Thanks Suzie!
This is day three of Tucker having surgery and he's doing extremely well. He has some of his personality back, he still loves to go out side and sit, loves treats, and loves to steal my dish towels. He is still unsure about stairs but we are assisting him by supporting him with a sling and short leash. He seems to tire easily, I'm sure by losing 15 pounds this will help. I can't wait for him to get his stitches out and for his hair to grow back. I know all this will take time. I will post some pictures soon. 
Melissa
Tucker is doing extremely well. Yesterday he ran for a little bit but mostly he lays down. I've been trying to get him to walk (hop) in order to get use to it, instead for me bringing things to him. We spend a lot of time outside. I know it will take some time before he is able\wants to play. Sometimes I just want him to be the dog that he once was. Okay.....I have to stop this way of thinking and just be thankful for all that he has accomplished so far. Anyway, thanks everyone for the kind words and support!
Melissa
Oh look at that lovely recuperation room! You all have the happiest smiles on your faces, I can see the relief in your eyes because he's home.
And you're not alone, we've all had those thoughts about getting back to normal and yearning for those better days ahead. This is one of those lessons that cancer teaches you and benefits your life every day afterward; look at the blessings in front of you now and celebrate them as they happen. The future is never guaranteed, so don't miss the present...what a gift!
You're doing great, keep it up.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Awwwww. Someone's feeling right at home again! What a sweetie. Can I come snuggle with you?
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Ha Ha, he is spoiled!
He has been doing great at home alone while I work. I run home for lunch so that I can check on him. Yesterday I noticed that his shirt was all wet, he has been licking the area of the incision. I called the vet, they suggested that I purchase Bitter Spray and spray the shirt. The last thing that we need is for that area to become infected. So, I bought the spray, didn't put it on because he stopped the licking. What a little turkey!
A week ago today Tucker had his surgery, he is doing great-better than I expected. You guys are right, they do adapt very well. He has mastered the stairs and is running a little bit. He still gets tired and wants to lay down all the time. I'm trying to keep him walking so that he gets use to it.
Sneaky Tucker! No licking, got it? You're so lucky to have a pawrent who can check on you!
Ok, as for walking him, you may want to keep activty to a minimum. There's plenty of time to get strong, one week out isn't very long, it's normal for a new Tripawd to be tired so don't worry. Meanwhile, once's he's got a bit more stamina, there are many things you can do to help him get strong. Most rehab therapists recommend starting about 10-12 days out. Have you seen our Tripawds e-books library? Our book, Loving Life on Three Legs, has lots of tips about how to get and stay strong on three leg, so does the Tripawds Gear Blog.
I hope your weekend goes great! Keep us posted!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
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