Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Some of you have been following Willow's struggle the last week, but I'll do a recap. 21/2 weeks ago, Willow ( a front left leg amputee from synovial cell sarcoma 2 1/2 years ago) partially tore the ACL in her back left leg. She has significant arthritis in her hips, back and other limbs. She was getting around with some help, and a little bit without any help, and showing improvement. On Friday I took her to a rehab vet for some PT "training". The rehab vet did quite a bit of massage and range of motion. Starting that evening, Willow started to decline. She had a much harder time bearing weight on any of her limbs. On Saturday her appetite wasn't great but she was eating. I thought maybe she was just sore and uncomfortable and spoke to her regular vet who agreed and recommended increasing her pain meds. By Sunday she was refusing food and was still weak. I spoke to her regular vet again who suggested bland diet of whatever she would eat, and although she ate a little, she wasn't really interested in anything. Throughout this time she was still having bowel movements and urinating although not as frequently, which would make sense since her intake was reduced. I took her to the vet yesterday. The vet said she was very weak and thought maybe a liver or kidney issue. She gave her an anti nausea injection and pills to stimulate her appetite and a small amount of subcutaneous fluid although Willow wasn't dehydrated, and ran a full blood panel. Willow ate more yesterday, although not a lot. She also showed more interest in her surroundings. But, this morning she wasn't looking good again and didn't even have the strength to urinate. The bloodwork came back fine, except for a UTI. The vet thinks that maybe her leg injury is too much for her to deal with, and that she is giving up. She doesn't think the UTI is enough to be the cause of this downward spiral. I took Willow back to the vet this morning and she got injections of antibiotics, pain med and anti nausea again. But the vet isn't hopeful and said that she is really concerned that Wilow is giving up on life. My heart is breaking. I've only had Willow for a little over a year. She's about 12 years old now and lived at a rescue shelter her whole life until she came to me. I knew when I got her that it might not be for long, that her cancer could come back and steal her from me, but I never expected this brave, loving, tough little tomboy would give up. I'm so sad.
Carol
We are with you. Right ow focus on the love you two are Shari g and KNOW WITH ABSOLUTE CERTAINTY this girl has had more live and caring I. The short time she's been with you than many dogs have in a lifetime!! She is so loved and that makes her feel complete and. Makes her know she is living a .ife of meaning and purpose....you gave her that gift..
You will know....she will let you know....if and when it's time. Right now she is with you taking in the .love and giving out some back...Try not to worry about anything but the present. ---which---if you can do that it's probably the first time ever anyone has!!!
Love on her for all of us and know that we are sending you strength and courage and the gentle peace you need.
Holding you both gently and lovingly I. Our hearts, 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!
Carol,
Bless your heart for doing what you can for Willow. Like Sally stated you have given her more love thank she has had in a lifetime just in the short amount of time that you have had her. Willow will let you know when the time comes. I know its not easy to think your baby is giving up. Just love on her as much as you can.
Michelle & Sassy
Sassy is a proud member of the Winter Warriors. Live long, & strong Winter Warriors.
sassysugarbear.tripawds.com
07/26/2006 - Sassy earned her wings 08/20/2013
05/04/2006 - Bosch, Sassy's pal, earned his wings 03/29/19 fought cancer for 4 months.
"You aren't doing it TO her, you are doing it FOR her. Give her a chance at life."
Since she's new to you, it may be hard to read her signs. The signs you give, though, say that she's not well and may not want to try any more. That's heartbreaking. But, since she last went in and got a slew of meds, I guess you should see how they do over the next 24-48 hours? We know you won't let her suffer, but since your bond isn't 12 years old, it's tough to know what she's telling you. Stay tough! Stay positive for her. But, also listen to her...
Keep us posted!
~ Katy
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!
In addition to the appetite stimulant and the anti-nausea drug, did she get anything like an antacid/stomach protectant?
I only ask, b/c I have an almost 13-year-old, front-leg amp...with advanced arthritis and dysplasia in his rear legs, who, after some PT (our first round), went into a very similar spiral--and for about 4 days, I thought he was done. But some time away from activity, some handfeeding (and it took a LONG time before I figured out what he'd eat even a few bites of), and then a tummy protector, he's been slowly climbing back up.
It's hard to say if she's giving up, b/c I think every dog is different, and you have to know them. But I WILL say, about a week ago, I felt that I had done something horrid by going to PT and we were in a downward spiral ourselves.
So yeah...hard to know. But hugs to you, regardless <3
"Let us think the unthinkable, let us do the undoable, let us prepare to grapple with the ineffable itself, and see if we may not eff it after all."
-Douglas Adams, Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency
"May I recommend serenity to you? A life that is burdened with expectations is a heavy life. Its fruit is sorrow and disappointment. Learn to be one with the joy of the moment."
-Douglas Adams, The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul
Thank you all for the kind words, support, and advice. I am very conscious of quality of life and it is so important to me. I've had to make the decision twice before to euthanize my beloved dog because they're quality of life was no longer good and although they weren't in pain, I could tell they were "done". I just find it so hard to believe that Willow was trying to drag me across they yard last week even with her ACL tear and I was wondering how I was going to be able to limit her activity long enough for her to heal properly, and that for no apparent medical reason she has spiraled down so quickly. But, I saw some spark this evening. She was enjoying some time outside and was looking around and listening to all the sounds. And then she tried to get up. She's still weak, so I helped her with the sling, and she tried to run around the yard, so I helped her. She found the "perfect spot" and on her own terms she urinated. And then she ate. And then after resting for awhile she got up again with help and found her spot and had a bowel movement. Ad then she ate again. And she had some sparkle and attitude. So maybe she's not done, maybe it is the UTI (I know they cause strange symptoms in human seniors). But I'll watch her carefully and I won't let her suffer. I love her too much to do that. I'll see how things are tomorrow. Take it day by day. Although she hasn't been mine for very long we have a strong bond and I only want the best for her.
Carol
mmrocker13 said
In addition to the appetite stimulant and the anti-nausea drug, did she get anything like an antacid/stomach protectant?
I only ask, b/c I have an almost 13-year-old, front-leg amp...with advanced arthritis and dysplasia in his rear legs, who, after some PT (our first round), went into a very similar spiral--and for about 4 days, I thought he was done. But some time away from activity, some handfeeding (and it took a LONG time before I figured out what he'd eat even a few bites of), and then a tummy protector, he's been slowly climbing back up.
It's hard to say if she's giving up, b/c I think every dog is different, and you have to know them. But I WILL say, about a week ago, I felt that I had done something horrid by going to PT and we were in a downward spiral ourselves.
So yeah...hard to know. But hugs to you, regardless <3
Thank you for giving me hope!! I felt so much better after reading your post. Willow does take Tagamet (cimetidine) for her tummy. I'm hoping that she is on her way to feeling better now.
Carol
Carol, I'm so sorry, it's clear how much you care about this special girl. I agree with Katy, wait and see how the meds kick in, she probably just needs more time. One vet's opinion is only that, just one opinion. He doesn't see her all day long like you do. You haven't had Willow long but you still know her better than anyone else in her life, so don't let one opinion sway your belief. If you believe she is that same strong girl who was pulling you around the yard last week, keep that in your heart and B E L I E V E. She needs you now more than ever to believe in her too.
This may be a setback but it may not be that she's giving up either. Hang tight, take things day by day and we'll be right there with you hoping for the best.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
So glad some others chimed in with more insight and seemingly first had experience than I was ale to offer. YOU do know Willow better than any vet! When your dog isn't feeling well it can break your heart but it doesn't mean she's giving up.
There's a line in a song by "Train" ....."calling All Angels". ......It simply says, "I won't give up, don't you give up"
We're calling on all tripawd angels toigt to help your tomboy Willow AND sweet Carol.
Surrounding with healing energy, 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!
Fingers (and paws) crossed that Willow starts to feel better soon. It is sooo hard watching them struggle and not feeling well.
Hang in there and we will be thinking of you.
Marla and Daisy
My Two Tripawds...Biscuit 
and Spirit Daisy 
Willow is doing a little bit better. She ate a little this morning, but didn[t seem to be doing as well as yesterday evening. As the day progressed, she became more alert and she ate some more. This afternoon I took her for a second opinion. This vet doesn't believe that she is giving up because of her leg injury. He believes that something else is going on, that maybe it's just her UTI, but maybe something more. He doesn't think her situation is critical, so wants to see if she continues to improve over the next day or two. If she's not doing much better by Saturday he'll do an ultrasound of her abdominal area. He gave her fluids although he said she wasn't really dehydrated. When we came home from the vet appt she ate a ton and drank water on her own for the first time in days. We went to sit outside and she barked at a dog barking in the neighborhood. Her spirits were much better. I am still very concerned and am watching her carefully, but am hoping that she will continue to improve and regain her strength.
Carol
Carol,
That is good news that her spirits are much better and she ate & drank water. Even barking is a good sign. Keep us informed of how she is doing. I am so glad this was a better report I have been worried for you.
Michelle & Sassy
Sassy is a proud member of the Winter Warriors. Live long, & strong Winter Warriors.
sassysugarbear.tripawds.com
07/26/2006 - Sassy earned her wings 08/20/2013
05/04/2006 - Bosch, Sassy's pal, earned his wings 03/29/19 fought cancer for 4 months.
"You aren't doing it TO her, you are doing it FOR her. Give her a chance at life."
WHEEEEEW!! Was so hopeful as I was scanning your post...and full of trepidation at the same time! Sooooo glad you are seeing improvement! Take a step back and really look at the monumental positives that have been happening:-) 
Barking! That's a dog who's feeling better! Eating:-) DRI kig:-) what a good girl!
I know you are still worried beyond word but I hope you really take a moment to step into a place of encouragement and hopefulness that you haven't been able to experience for a few days,
Good job mom and Willow! And I really like your second opinion vet!!
Sleep well tonight girls!
Sending you celebration good wishes and applause to Willow for staying strong! 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!
That sounds so much better! Hoping they figure out what is going on. Get better soon Willow.
Spirit Shooter was a Miniature Australian Shepherd who was diagnosed with a MCT and had a LF amp 1/28/13 at 13-1/2 years old.
Shooter crossed the Bridge on 8/28/13, his 7 month ampuversary and two weeks from his 14th birthday.
That is good news! I agree with above, barking is an excellent sign that she is more alert and willing to be a part of everything. We'll continue to keep you and Willow in our thoughts and prayers.
Karen and Spirit Magnum
Magnum: 30th May 2002 to 5th May 2012. Lost her back left leg to osteosarcoma on 5th Sep 2011. Lung mets found on 20th Mar 2012 but it was bone mets in the hip that ended her brave battle. Magnum's motto - "Dream as if you'll live for ever, live as if you'll die today" (James Dean). Loyal, loving, courageous and spirited to the end. My beloved heart dog, see her memoirs from Rainbow Bridge ...... http://princess.....pawds.com/
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