Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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My dog was hit by a car last night. His hip is broken in several places. The emergency vet felt that amputation his only option. It is his rear right hip. He is an 80lb golden retriever that also has arthritis in his legs and spine. He does well most days, still goes on short hiking trips with us but needs help getting in and out of the car and I have to carry him over obstructions on paths. He rarely ventures upstairs in our home anymore. Fast forward to today and the vet is saying she doesn’t think he will do well with the amputation due to the arthritis. We were out of town when this happened and so they just bandaged him up and made him comfortable with pain meds until I can get him to his home vet this morning. I will be there within 4 hours. Just looking for thoughts from you all on whether I should attempt this given his age, arthritis and large size. Thank you.
Hi and welcome. We are so sorry about your pup! Is his name Stormy? Are you Rene?
I think by now you have been to the vet and possibly made a decision. If you haven't decided, consider getting an opinion from an orthopedic surgeon. Is there one on staff at the clinic? Obviously you probably can't move him around to other practices, but if you can get some more insight from an expert at your location, that would be ideal. I say this, because many times, one vet will think that a dog isn't a good candidate for surgery when another one does, and the dog ends up doing well. I don't know your dog's health history, but if I had to cope with such a tough decision, I would want to get another opinion if at all possible.
Please keep us posted on how it's going OK? We send lots of pawsitivity and strength to you and your pup.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
I can only send our love and support right now and hope you got some input from your regular Vet.
We already know from your post your bond and commitment to doing what's best for your beloved Golden.
Although we say age is just a number, we must always balance that with the fact that a dog like your sweet Golden is already in the "sunset of his Golden years". Actually, you clearly have taken exquisite care of your pup to have reached fourteen! For a bigger doggy, that's quite impressive!
I'm sure your regular Vet knows enough about his history with arthritis, spine, issues, etc that he can help guide you. As Jerry mentioned, circumstances may make getting an Orthopedic Surgeon's input impossible.
I'm so sorry you are in this position. We are here for you in ANY way possible. You will make a decision out of sefless love for your boy, whatever that may be.
((((((((((((Hugs)))))))))
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
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!
benny55 said
Although we say age is just a number, we must always balance that with the fact that a dog like your sweet Golden is already in the "sunset of his Golden years". Actually, you clearly have taken exquisite care of your pup to have reached fourteen! For a bigger doggy, that's quite impressive!
Absolutely Sally, you said this so well, far better than I could. Thanks for sharing your wonderful wisdom.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
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