Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Re-posting here in recovery...
Lulu had her amputation on Tuesday. It has been a rollercoaster of emotions. We are just so happy to have her back home. She is on a Fentanyl patch and Rimadyl right now for pain. She was supposed to have the Gabapentin too but vet discontinued saying it made her too “groggy”. Should I be concerned that we don’t have the Gabapentin? In pre-op they found that her liver was quite enlarged. They did some more tests and think she may have a little infection and decided it was safe to go ahead with surgery. She was holding her urine all day yesterday and was anxious. When she couldn’t hold it anymore she eliminated in the house. She was scared to even try to take a step in the yard. After that she finally settled down and got some rest. She seems ok right now. Today is 2 days post op. How much should we allow her to try to get up on her own and move around in her limited space? Should we try to keep her totally off her paws right now?
We 
you Lulu! Glad that you are on the mend.
Some dogs are sensitive to Gabapentin and on top of Fentanyl she could have been really woozy. So for now go with your vet's instructions. But if you notice her pain signals increasing, definitely let them know and find out what pain control you can give to her instead. The Fentanyl and Rimadyl should be helping her a lot right now, that's good. The patch will probably wear out by this time tomorrow and if all she will be on is Rimadyl, then I would watch her carefully for pain signs.
How much should we allow her to try to get up on her own and move around in her limited space? Should we try to keep her totally off her paws right now?
She should only be going outside to potty, on leash, and that's it. Let her rest as much as possible until stitches come out. Do you have her in a small section of your home where she can't explore too much? Allow her to sniff and move around in the space but keep any walks and physical activity to a minimum.
Things really get better. You're at the toughest part of recovery right now but we've got your back! Keep us posted.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
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