Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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I put her beds in the living room to try and encourage her to be in them more and guess who slept in her own bed ALL night? I did hear her roaming around, licking at her food bowl but I woke up and she was in her white softer bed in front of the heater! Like old times!!! Made me so happy. It's been almost 4 weeks since she took over my bathroom so I definitely consider this a positive!
In fact, she spent more time this weekend out of my bathroom and tends to just go in there when she gets annoyed w/me for lack of attention (she's rather passive aggressive). I was out yesterday for a Superbowl party and when I got home a bit too late (dinner was late) and she was roaming around, and her pig ear was moved which I suspect means she was playing w/it? She's starting to show some interest in her bones again.
Her colitis seems to be getting under better control so I wonder if that's why she's feeling a smidge better and more like herself? We are on Flagyl and the Gluten Free pasta she ate the other night seemed to 'bulk' things up!
The only other thing she's doing now that's a bit bizarre, is a lot of lip smacking. She has plenty of water and is drinking normal. She licked at the grass yesterday (which she never does) and I know they do that before they eat it to vomit but nope - she's fine in that dept. she is a very hungry hippo and I am giving her lots of veggies for bulk (she really only eats one meal a day but I might switch her to a small breakfast and then dinner too). But the lip smacking yesterday and this a.m. was just weird - so I can only think she's thinking of ways to mess w/my mind (if they are that crafty). Since she has water and isn't going through it quickly, I won't call the vet - perhaps the meds make her feel like she has dry mouth?
BUT happy mom today! Fingers crossed for this trend to continue.... 
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
Hmm. Lip smacking could be a sign of dry mouth, I know meds can do that to human people. It's also a sign of nausea too.
Glad to hear you had a good Superbowl Sunday!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Hmmm... I doubt she is nauseous... I mean, when I am nauseous, I am not ravenous and she is definitely acting like she's not getting enough food (and trust me - she is well fed). I guess it's probably dry mouth.
Here is us before the game! One guess as to which team I was rooting for?!? I'm from Seattle originally so clearly, I'm happy today! 🙂
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
I tell ha' what, this site can take you to the depths of sadness one moment and the heights of joy the next!!
Thank you for bringing us to joyful place with this great update!!
SHELBY SLEPT IN HER BED AND CHEWED PIG EARS!! YAAAAAAAAAAY SHELBYSTRONG!! And then to see that precious "picture of love" on top of that! Shelby looks so happy anytime she's snuggled in yor arms! And mom looks mighty hapy and content too!
You got a double win today.....your football team won and Shelby is sleeping in ner bed!!!
Hugs and love and sleepytime snuggles to all,
Sally and Happy Hannah
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
Well I'd ask the vet about the dry mouth.
Bet you had fun yesterday! We thought it was the Worst. Superbowl. Game. Ever!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
The vet actually said there is no reason for her to be licking her chops intermittently - especially if she's eating/drinking normal. She's actually acting super normal today - perky, happy, "Shelbyesque" ... I did a web search and freaked a bit so I'll stop doing that. Could be that she had canned dog food the last couple of days and maybe she can still taste it on her muzzle or it was salty! I'll keep an eye on her.
Thank you, Sally... definitely highs and lows on this site!
And Jerry - even though Seattle won, it was a horrible game; not all the hype. Pretty flat for sure.
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
Ohhh yeah, Dr. Google can make you insane! If your vet isn't worried I would keep an eye on it. Note when it happens and see if there's any consistency to the chops licking!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Dr. Google identified Shelby's issues as either a foxtail in her throat or nose (which then she would also be way more panicked) OR bloat (and then I worry that she looks 'thicker') so I'm definitely staying off Google! And if I get stressed, she feels that. It's probably just some random thing she has started to doing for no real reason. It's actually rather intermittent and perhaps she's always done this so now I am noticing it for the first time since I'm hyper sensitive to everything she does. But I figure if she's eating, drinking, pooping and acting fine, then she is indeed fine.
BUT she slept in MY ROOM last night on her bed!!! MY ROOM!!!! Almost a month since she has voluntarily slept in there. I put her in there before bed and she left but I woke up this morning and she was back. I did hear her coming and going last night (she seems to room a lot at night). But I am definitely going to look into those activities since she's feeling better, there seems to be more energy in the evenings now (ahhhh back to our puppy days).
Here she is last night trying to "share" her pig ear. She can't quite figure out how to chew it so she carries it around and licks at it. Silly girl!
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
Woot! Woot! Go Shelby! That is HUGE!!!!
I'm going to forget your Momma saw that on Dr. Google and just focus on that adorable photo of you!!! Just promise me you'll stop worrying her OK? Now, get back in that bedroom and snooze away pretty one!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Awwwwwww Shelby! You are THE cutuest thing!! Look at you so proud of yor pig ear!
And we are soooooo proud of you both!! Time to just enjoy everything together!
Yeah, Dr. Google can scare the puppy pants right off ya'! Now is the time to put all your "thought energies" into all the WO DERFUL VICTORIES yo two are having!! I'm so happy for all the progress!! It just warms my heaert"
Gotta' get more kce cream to celebrate with over here! Her victories are coming fast and furious and we can't keep enough celebratory ice cream in stock!!
Cheers tl another great night of SHELBYSTRONG sleeping in tne bedroom!!
Lots of love and hugs!
Sally and Happy Hannah
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
Thank you ALL! She's snoozing in the living room w/me right now! We had some snuggles!
My new theory on the licking (which is less today) is that she's missing her whiskers so her muzzle might be more sensitive. One of my friends thinks that she might be licking where her fur is growing back since it probably itches so perhaps that is making her tongue/mouth a bit raw. Or she's just being silly! We had a great walk earlier! She had a lot of spring/bounce in her step and a tail wagging! Baby steps ...
Hugs and love from A&S
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
Because I am clearly NOT busy enough at work (or am having a massive panic attack worrying about Shelby at home with the cleaning lady who does love her but I don't trust Shelby not to go all bad-ass and think she can play), I Googled again licking of the nose. Apparently, it is something dogs do to calm themselves also. Kind of a doggy anti-anxiety. Since Shelby is eating like a champ (and then some - she's a bottomless pit it would seem), drinking fine, walking fine, snuggling fine ... this does make sense that since I took her off her doggy valium, she might still have some anxiety issues.
OR - a friend of mine had her dog groomed and they shaved off his whiskers (bad, I know). He's been licking cause it might itch as they grow back in. Well, Shelby lost all her whiskers w/chemo so perhaps that is her story too. I do know she puts her nose WAY lower to the ground now when we walk since there is no 'whisker buffer'. Am I the most neurotic person in this forum? You should revoke my access.... how long before the pawrents settle down and accept life? Since clearly I can't drink wine at work to soothe me! 
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
Haha you are not neurotic! You are concerned, that's all. I like the shaved whiskers theory. Any sign of new ones growing in?
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Yep, I agree...itchy whiskers...or just feeling weird without them...
"How long before pawparents settle down and accept life?" I GOOGLED it on my Apple-Grape computer and found one result........
HA! Easy for Mr. Google say! Clearly he doesn't have tripawds with crappy diseases! The again, maybe he's onto something! Worth a try anyway, huh?
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
45 minute on the phone with the ER vet last night and they talked me off the ledge (so to speak). They assured me that she does NOT have a foxtail in her throat (and why, after living in the same place for over 5 years that is neither a field or a park would she suddenly get one, right?) and if she did, she would act differently and her breath would be atrocious!
And no, she does not have bloat either as it would be REALLY obvious to me and she would be uncomfortable and refuse to eat.
I still think it's her colitis meds (that she's done w/today) - Flagyl - is causing some odd(er) behavior). She seems to pant more at night for no good reason and seems unsettled. And she took to the bathroom last night but didn't spend the entire night in there. She was in the living room this a.m.
I think her balance and general sense of the world is also probably off w/out her whiskers. Shelby has always been a dog that 'marks' (outside) a lot - more than most dogs and more than most female dogs. She also has always been a curious sniffer. Without her whiskers, she probably does feel more vulnerable and different. At least that is also what the vet told me. So some of this might be in my head but some of it is probably an emotional reaction for Shelby. I have said for months since she started chemo she seems to sniff longer and harder than she ever did. And nope, no signs of them coming back at all. 
But the good news is that she's still super eager to eat, walk, and most important, snuggles!
However I do think she's getting a little 'plump' so I got the Healthy Cooking for Dogs book someone here mentioned and it says that her calorie content is way less than what I know she was eating. She goes Tuesday for a check-up and her new maintenance anti-cancer drugs so I'll weigh her then (I don't own a scale) and we'll go from there. But I knew she felt heavier when I picked her up. She's just so hungry all the time - more than she ever used to be (and she was always a hungry girl). Maybe I need to feed her breakfast AND dinner. Our old routine was cookie in the a.m. and then dinner at night. I've starting giving her a bowl with some cucumber slices and 2 baby carrots with her cookie in the a.m. and a spoon of pure pumpkin to tide her over but I might have to divide her main meal into too to get that weight back down.
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
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