Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi everyone,
Well, the surgery is complete and the puppy is home and doing well! That's the nutshell version. The longer story...
Dropping him off on Monday was definitely a tough thing. I was able to ask the surgeon whether or not we really felt that this was the best route. While she, again, presented all of the possibilities, I really felt pushed by time (didn't want to take the chance of waiting) and we went ahead. He recovered at CSU really well and they were great about loving him up when we couldn't. We picked him up Tuesday evening. Grabbed a recommended harness from a store on the way there. I was just so ready to see him by then. I know in their eyes he looked so happy and like he was doing so well, but I could tell that my Charlie wasn't quite back yet, which should be expected. Not to mention he was so completely exhausted. I sat in the back of the CRV with him for the 1 1/2 hour ride home (of course it snowed). He was very happy to get home.
I slept on the couch downstairs with him for the first night. We were up several times as he tried to get comfortable and continued to figure things out. Fortunately, I planned to work at home the first morning, so I was able to help him get around and...again...figure things out (the phrase of the week). We also took the bandage off the incision, which was an awful task, but made him more comfortable in the end. Over the course of the day yesterday, he improved significantly. He's getting the hang of the timing and alternating of his steps. He's had two minor 'oops' moments, forgetting that the other leg isn't there, but we just cheer him on and he pops back up. Unfortunately, he really hates the harness and kind of looks at us resentfully when we hold the handle. 
I think we'll use it for walks, etc. but otherwise let him do his thing since he's pretty steady. Overall, very pleased with his progress. His poutiness and confusion is decreasing and I'm getting glimpses of my boy here and there. We put the t-shirt on him last night since he tried to lick at it once. He is not fond of it, but we can take it off during the day when someone is keeping an eye on him. Slept on the couch with him again last night, but did get a little more sleep.
The biggest challenge right now...he hasn't pooped yet! I know this could be related to the surgery and pain meds and less movement, but I get the feeling it may also have to do with him not quite knowing how to go about it. I gave him some pumpkin and flax seed last night, so hoping for good things this morning. I may also reduce his tramadol dose from 3 tabs to 2 since he's doing well and kind of hates the stuff anyway. But if no success, will call CSU to get recommendations. That just can't be comfortable because, of course, he has been eating well. In this way, he will always be my Charlie!
So darn proud of my boy. This is tough stuff and he's taking it in stride. Lots of love and 'good boys' are making his days.
As always, thanks for listening.
Heather and Charlie
Charlie, our English yellow lab, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in February 2014. He became a tripawd on February 24th, with clear lymph nodes and lungs, but that didn't last long. After three doses of Carbo, in May 2014, x-rays showed lung mets. We briefly tried Palladia, which went well. Unfortunately, Charlie developed unexplained complications in his hind limbs. We said a reluctant farewell on June 11, 2014. Still miss our boy each and every day.
YAAAAAY! Charlie is home and on the road to recovery!! Yep! A lot of ups and downs to go throught the next two weeks, but eventually the sparkle will return full time!!
Not pooping for several days is "normal". You're exactly right, the meds., surgery, etc. causes that. Let us kow when he does poop though...we celebrate everything around here!!
The first two or three days he still as the hospital meds in him, so you may still see some ore "uncofortable" days when they wear off. Check with yur vet first about reducing the pain meds, okay? You always want to stay ahead of the pain, rather than try and catch up.
I know how exhausting some of these sleepless nights can be. I also know how exhilarating it is to se Charlie co e back to being is joyfully hapy self, PAIN FREE!!
Thanks for takng ti e for this great update. Would LOVE to see photos when you can catch your breath.
GOOD BOY CHARLIE!! GOOD JOB JOHN AND HEATHER!!
Sending lots of healing 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!
So happy Charlie is doing well....I will continue to keep you and sweet Charlie in my thoughts as he heals and progresses.
Bonnie & Angel Polly
Your last minute hesitation is so normal, I know there isn't a single pawrent who doesn't ask their vet "Are you SURE this is the right thing to do?" It's a big leap of faith.
Now that sounds like a really good recovery so far! The pooping will happen. I know it's worrisome but it's very common. Giving him pumpkin is good, you can also try some bran flakes on his food, olive oil and even some salmon or fish oil. Don't worry, you'll be doing the potty dance in no time!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Way to go Charlie! Sounds like you are doing pretty good champ! Rest up and milk your parents for all its worth
Keep us posted on the progress!!
xoxo,
Erica & Jill
Jill is a 9-year-old tuxedo kitty. She was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma in June 2012 on her toe in her right hind leg. Her leg was amputated on 12/12/12 and she completed four rounds of chemo (2 of Carbo, 2 of Doxy) in April 2013. "Like" Jill's facebook page: https://www.fac.....tty?ref=hl Proud member of the WINTER WARRIORS!!!! Her blog can be read at http://jillsjou.....ipawds.com. xoxo
Glad to here Charlie is home and recovering! Our Australian heeler mix Cody had his amputation Friday so I know exactly what you are going through. We've been sleeping in our living room as well to keep an eye on him. Cody didn't poop the first day, but he did the second and third but not the fourth. It's definitely worrisome! I think its a mixture of things... I really think he doesn't like to do it now cause its weird but I know he'll get used to it It sounds like Charlie is doing great! This site has been a big help to us so far in this journey hopefully you're finding it helpful too!
Cody is our 7 year old Australian Heeler mix boy. Diagnosed on 2/20/14 and became a tripawd 2/21/14! We chose a homeopathic approach and he is being treated by Dr. Loops our of NC.
Yay Charlie! It truly sounds like he's coming along nicely. Seeing some of the old spark this soon is a very good sign. For the pooping you might also try some plain Greek yogurt. That always loosens Libby's poo.
It won't take him long to figure out how to do his "business" as a tripawd. I know we want to save them when they do a face plant, but like you said, he got right back up. They don't dwell on that stuff like we do. They just keep moving forward.
We cut along the sides of re-useable canvas shopping bag and used it as a sling the first couple of days til Libby was more steady on 3 legs. She adapted so fast and I'm sure Charlie will too. Hang in there, you're doing great!
Amy & Libby
Liberty (Libby) was diagnosed with OSA on 1-22-13. Right front amputation on 1-31-13. No IV Chemo. Metronomic Therapy started 2-19-13 along with supplements and some home cooking. Lungs clear until 1-06-14. She's still her happy, hoppy, bossy self. Living the dog life to the fullest and a proud Winter Warrior. :) RIP my Libby 4-21-03 to 3-19-14
Charlie, you are a real trooper! You just keep on improving like you are doing. As far as the poop goes, once he figures out that triangle stance, things will work out well. It does take a few days, though. We are here for you.
Kathi and Murphy
Murphy is a five year old Lab/Chessie cross. He was hit by a car on 10/29/12 and became a Tripawd on 11/24/12. On 2/5/13, he had a total hip replacement on his remaining back leg. He has absolutely no idea that he has only three legs!
UPDATE: Murphy lived his life to the fullest, right up until an aggressive bone lesion took him across the Rainbow Bridge on April 9, 2015 and he gained his membership in the April Angels. Run free, my love. You deserve it!
Glad to hear that Charlie is home and recuperating so well!
I will chime in to say that the tripawd triangle poop stance takes a bit of practice but then things just happen!
Remember to rest yourself when Charlie does........
Hugs
Linda and Tucker
Yey! I've been waiting to hear the news. I'm SO SO SO glad it's behind you and everyone can start learning their new normal.
The harness may take time. He's overwhelmed with new sensations and new ways of moving (and not moving) that those straps may just push him over the edge. Wait and see always works!
As for poo, well, it'll happen! Promise! There's only one way and when he's gotta go badly enough, he will. It may be really awkward for him and if he's holding it in, it may even hurt. Ouchy. Just support him (physically, if needed or allowed) and be your wonderful positive self. He'll figure it out! To help it along, you've already had some good suggestions.
Keep it up, Charlie!!!
~ Katy & Jackson
ACL tear in right hind leg 12/5/12 and scheduled ACL repair surgery 12/21/12. Pre-op xrays revealed osteosarcoma. Amputation 12/28/12. Chemo (carboplatin) started Jan 10, 2013 and ended on April 5, for a total of 5 doses. He handled carbo like a champ! No side effects. We started metronomic therapy at his third chemo and have been also doing some holistic treatments. He's a lively, playful 10 year old huskie-boarder collie and a very proud member of the Winter Warriors! Our love. Our funny little guy!
Hi everyone,
We are now 4th day post-amp. The good news is, we have poo! So no more worries in that area. Thanks for all the advice. Now, just trying to navigate the ups and downs that everyone warned about. Everything feels so moment to moment, which, considering the changes his body is trying to make, I suppose I shouldn't be frustrated. This morning, we tried stairs for the first time with assistance and it really took a lot out of him. We wouldn't have pushed the issue if we weren't hoping that I'd get back into a real bed soon. I don't think that's happening this evening. He's seeming pretty tired and weak.
The bruising is just brutal. Hoping that will subside in the next few days. We have been icing and we're supposed to switch to heat now, but I'd almost prefer to see the bruising improve a little bit before heat. With the pain meds, we kind of feel like we can't win. He looks so sad when he gets three tramadol (plus rimadyl and two gabapentin), but when we reduce to 2-2 1/2 it doesn't seem like the pain is as well controlled. So I default to good pain control.
This evening, we distracted him with some Donald Duck cartoons. (I may not have mentioned his love for all things media--iPad, iPhone, laptops...) That at least got his ears up and got his attention. But I'm missing my Charlie smiles. Hoping to turn a corner this weekend.
Heather and Charlie
Charlie, our English yellow lab, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in February 2014. He became a tripawd on February 24th, with clear lymph nodes and lungs, but that didn't last long. After three doses of Carbo, in May 2014, x-rays showed lung mets. We briefly tried Palladia, which went well. Unfortunately, Charlie developed unexplained complications in his hind limbs. We said a reluctant farewell on June 11, 2014. Still miss our boy each and every day.
You guys are doing great!!! He's still really early in the recovery process and it sounds like he's doing well - it took me about 2 - 3 weeks to really "see" Shelby's sparkle back. she had a rough recovery (lots of anxiety, hiding in the bathroom, etc.). But we're almost 2 months (OMG - did I just say that) and we're doing great! We have a long road ahead of us.
One thing we did was take photos of her wound site each day ... so I could see that progress of the swelling/bruising. It might help. Shelby wouldn't tolerate the ice on her wound so I didn't do it. It looks beautiful now - except her back is still pretty shaved. The fur is back over the wound site.
Sounds like you're staying on top of his pain management which is great! Looking forward to more photos and great reports!
Alison and Shelby
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
Thanks for the reply, Alison. I was needing some reassurance. It's hard to think about how good he was looking right before surgery...and now he's struggling so much. So it's hard to believe that we've done the right thing. But I know we need to be patient. Hanging in!
Charlie, our English yellow lab, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in February 2014. He became a tripawd on February 24th, with clear lymph nodes and lungs, but that didn't last long. After three doses of Carbo, in May 2014, x-rays showed lung mets. We briefly tried Palladia, which went well. Unfortunately, Charlie developed unexplained complications in his hind limbs. We said a reluctant farewell on June 11, 2014. Still miss our boy each and every day.
Keep reminding yourself...you have just given Charlie more time with you! How great is that?? He will get to his old self and these days will be distant memories. Like Alison said, it's really, really early in his recovery. Even trying the stairs seems a bit early but I understand wanting to get things back to normal.
I think once you are able to get him off the Tramadol you will see more of the sparkle return. Everything sounds like it's going pretty great for you all. Hang in there!
Amy & Libby
Liberty (Libby) was diagnosed with OSA on 1-22-13. Right front amputation on 1-31-13. No IV Chemo. Metronomic Therapy started 2-19-13 along with supplements and some home cooking. Lungs clear until 1-06-14. She's still her happy, hoppy, bossy self. Living the dog life to the fullest and a proud Winter Warrior. :) RIP my Libby 4-21-03 to 3-19-14
Oh yeah, we can all relate! "Give me patience...and HURRY UP! I need it NOW!"
My very first post here was, "Six days after rear amp. surgery and I fear I've made HORRIBLE decision!" And t felt that way pretty close to three weeks! Had it not been fr this site promising me it would get better, telling me some dogs have a slower reco ery than others...just holdi g my hand day after day...I'd never have made it! Happy Hannah and I just celebrated her ONE YEAR AMPUVERSARY and movng gorard (knock on wood)! BEST DECISION E ER!!
As faras stairs, yeah, try and hold off on that awhile I have a ramp for Happy Hannah...she'll go down stairs but not up-..sne uses her ramp for that. She didnot goup yhr outside porch stairs for seven months!!
Oh goahz! Almost forgot the happy poop dance! CCONBRATULATIONS!!
Hang in there...it does get better! zyou are doing this FOR Charlie, not TO him!!
Stay connected tomus, okay? You are not alone! Now go devour some chocolate!
Huge hugs to all!
Sally and Happy Hannah
Yeah, that bruising can be unbelievable! The colors, soo deep and bright! They do eventually start to fade!
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!
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