Howdy Bundy and family! I'm in the Tripawds Chat right now if you want to talk. Back here in a sec with some feedback.

IS 8.5 YRS OLD FOR A ROTTIE CONSIDERED ‘TOO OLD’? All breeds are different and for a rottie we knew he was getting a bit geriatric to begin with. Is there any research or resources on breed-specific outcomes?? 

For most dogs, age really is just a number. Their existing state of health, weight, fitness level and personality all play a bigger role in how well they do on three legs. Aside from that, the pet parent's attitude also plays a big role. This is all anecdotal, but it's what we've witnessed by watching the progress of the thousands of members who have joined us. No, there are no specific studies on this aspect of the Tripawd Life but if anyone out there wants to sponsor one we know veterinary researchers who would love to conduct one!

HEALTH OF OTHER LIMBS: How many of you had full imaging done on the remaining 3 limbs before surgery? The surgeon made a vague comment about the ‘health of his other knee’ and I’m left thinking UMMM CAN YOU CLARIFY PLEASE?! If he only has 3-6 months left does that really matter? 

Whenever you have questions that aren't getting answered, be bold and let your vet know you don't understand. This is super important, especially now that you're dealing with cancer. You can get a second opinion from an orthopedic specialist, who may or may not order other diagnostics, but will be able to give you a good idea on how well he will do.

Also keep in mind, that everyone gets that three to six month prognosis if you don't do chemotherapy. We opted out and our Jerry lived two great years with osteosarcoma! And many others have gone even longer. So remember, a prognosis is just a guess based on studies that didn't involve your dog. Some dogs will follow those outcomes, some won't. Try not to focus on it, because Bundy is his own dog.

PHANTOM LIMB PAIN: how many of your dogs have had this? How long does it last? I would just HATE to trade one pain for another in his limited months left. 

Here is an actual phantom leg pain study that was conducted by a scientist who worked with us. Some dogs will get it, some won't. Typically if the pre and post-operative pain management is top-notch, a dog will not have phantom pain . There's always a chance, but usually we see it happen when the vet was not up on the latest pain management protocols. So be sure to find out how Bundy's will be handled, it truly does make all the difference in recovery.

HOW LONG UNTIL YOU WERE ABLE TO LEAVE THEM HOME ALONE? My husband has taken a week off of work for the scheduled surgery next week, but after reading the forums it is sounding like 2 weeks is necessary?

Again, it depends on the dog, and how well pain management was handled by Bundy's team. Most dogs are good to be left alone after 10 days to just a few, ideally with someone coming in to check on them. Keeping your pup confined to a small area is key. You don't have to crate him if he's not used to it, but you do want to minimize his activity before the stitches come out. 

I hope this helps. Ask as many questions as you'd like, that's why we are here!