Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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So my Great Dane just got his front leg amputated Friday. He had a rather large osteosarcoma tumor. The cancer hadn't metastasized, and he was already kind of hopping around on three legs, so apparently he was a good candidate.
He has eaten a bit, peed a lot and had a couple of bowel movements already, so that's pretty good. I know he's on a lot of drugs, but the vet said we need to get him up every 3-4 hours, and unlike normally, even before the surgery when he was on quite a bit of drugs, he doesn't really want to.
I'm not really sure if it's the pain, or being a bit tired from trying to remain balanced, or the drugs, so is this normal?
And what's a general sort of time frame for dogs to sort out a new way of walking?
And does anyone have any suggestions for a good harness for a Great Dane?
My Dane is also a stubborn pain in the ass, and getting him into and out of the car is ridiculous. We bought stairs to help him in and out, and he refuses, he would rather attempt to jump. After the surgery, the vet tech helped us with him, but when we got home, he refused to come out unless he could jump out on his own.
After a half an hour of trying to get him to use the stairs or allow us to help him with a carry thing, we gradually let him come out the side with a tiny bit of assistance. He did make a sound of pain, and we checked the wound, it seemed okay.
But would a ramp be better, or does anyone have some tricks to assist.
He's obviously less than is normal 125, but he still weighs a lot.
Hi @mc19, welcome! Your future posts won't need approval so post away. What's you're dog's name?
Glad to hear your pup is already doing so well. 125 is big but honestly we've seen bigger. He should do just fine. You might want to consider a rehab therapy evaluation. These experts can help him get going faster, and teach you how to help him stay strong and injury free. Tripawds Foundation can even pay for your first rehab visit .
About your questions:
I'm not really sure if it's the pain, or being a bit tired from trying to remain balanced, or the drugs, so is this normal?
Probably a little of everything. Danes are already couch potatoes so asking him to get up and around more than usual may be a struggle. I would let your vet know about his normal activity level and just check that they are good with allowing him to couch surf as usual.
What kind of pain management is he getting? Medication, dosage, and timing?
And what's a general sort of time frame for dogs to sort out a new way of walking?
It really differs for all dogs but for giant breeds they do take a little longer. Maybe a couple weeks longer. As long as he can stand to potty and eat I wouldn't be too concerned. Don't expect much right now other than leashed potty walks, and don't ask him to do more either. His body needs to heal and it's a ton of work to move around using muscles that weren't used as much before surgery. Make sure you have plenty of traction down so he has confidence and good footing on the ground in your house.
And does anyone have any suggestions for a good harness for a Great Dane?
For sure! The Ruffwear harness called the Flagline is our favorite for front leg amputees. At 125 pounds I'm guessing the XL will fit him just fine.
But would a ramp be better, or does anyone have some tricks to assist.
Honestly most dogs don't like ramps and don't use them. I think they're the #1 most returned item in pet supply stores! As a tall boy I wouldn't be too worried about him getting in and out of the car as long as you don't have a super high clearance vehicle.
I hope this helps! Check out our What to Expect articles and holler with any questions.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
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