Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Aloha All, My 9 yr old Rott Molokai went in for amputation today. After reading numerous articles I found out that there still exists a 90% chance of getting METS. He is in great physical health sans the amputation. In ya'lls experience what kind of life span can I expect post surgery? We feel that we caught it early w/ the chest x-ray being clear
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That sounds about right. In 90% of cases (and here I'm speaking of bone cancer), we were told, the cancer has already metastasized by the time of diagnosis but the mets are too small to be detected. Our surgeon told us to consider following treatments (amputation, chemo) as "palliative" with preservation of quality of life. Our 6-year old goldie, Catie, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in January, shortly after which her right foreleg was amputated. The vet told us "median" survival rate without follow-up chemotherapy was 3-6 months; with chemo 1-year. But really there are variations on either side of that.
It's hard for us humans to accept because we like definitive guarantees and promises, but it's really about taking one day at a time. It'll be four months on May 13th since Catie's surgery (and four chemo treatments during that time). She's still here and she's still beautiful and I'm grateful for every day we have with her.
Best wishes for Molakai's recovery!
Catie -
Birthday – November 4 2003
Amputation – January 13 2010
Crossed the Bridge – June 2 2011
Hey Molokai and famiy, aloha to you too. We hope you're feeling better after the surgery and have a quick recovery.
Thanks for joining us here. We have an awesome community of folks who can help your pawrent(s) with advice and perspective about what to expect and how to cope with things. Never fear, someone here always has a shoulder to lean on and advice that helps.
I wish I could give you a for sure answer about the life expectancy issue, but unfortunately, like amputation recovery itself, it all depends on so many factors that are out of our control. What did your doc say?
Osteosarcoma, unfortunately, will typically reappear as metastasis, usually in the lungs but sometimes in other bones. Even if lungs are clear during the first x-ray, metastasis can already be present. We just can't see it because they are too small for the x-rays/microscope to see.
While amputation will get rid of the awful pain you were in, I'm sorry to say that it isn't a cure-all. With some cancers it is, but not osteosarcoma as far as I know. But, please take heart in knowing that Tripawds can live hoppy lives after surgery, even with cancer. I didn't get mets until 17 months past my diagnosis, and I lived nearly 2 years. While some dogs don't beat the odds like that, many do.
My best advice (which you will hear a lot here because it really helps so many of us get through this more easily) is: don't focus on the prognosis. Focus on the moment at hand, the day you have in front of you. Because if you're too worried and focused on the prognosis, you will be missing out on so much joy and beauty of the time you have together wth Molokai right now.
We always suggest to people to check out Doug Koktavy's book, "The Legend of Beezer and Boomer." This incredibly wise book will teach you how to do just that.
I know it's easier said than done, but try it. Watch how Molokai responds to the amputation and cancer; remember, he doesn't know he has it. I'm not saying be in denial, just saying that for your sanity and happiness, it's best to focus on living one day at a time.
I hope this helped somewhat. Remember, we are here to talk if you want OK? Good luck. Let us know how the post-surgery recovery goes.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
My youngest sister always wanted to be a doctor and heal people. However, her son Alex was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor at eleven year of age, and one of the people she most wanted to heal was beyond her capabilities. The experts gave Alex a life-expectancy of one year, 5% would make it for two, but Alex was with us for more than three years.
When Miss Cherry was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, I can honestly say that we never discussed life-expectancy with her care givers but focused totally on the quality of life. She turned eleven the day before the amputation, and with the additional complications confronting her any discussion of life-expectancy would have been framed in weeks to a few months. She was with us for 405 days. There were five who had there amputation over a four week period starting on November 11, 2008. We lost Tika after eleven months, Miss Cherry was just days short of 13.5 months, Max was just over 13.5 months, and both Nova and Trouble are still going strong as they approach the 18 month mark. However, we also have had very tragic stories like Tehya and Jake who were with us for only months after the amputation.
Having been trained in applied mathematics, I know that life-expectancy is nothing more than an average, mean or most probable number when applied to very large number of cases and it is very dependent upon the exact diagnosis. I would also contend that with the advances in treatments, chemotherapy protocols, and supplements available, any previous life-expectancy number is probably outdated. We can and do expect more!!
If you need a number, I would point you to the article that my local vet provided to me via LINK. However, I would like to suggest that you approach the issue differently. Discuss with your care givers and think of the quality of life. To most here, it really is all about their quality of life. One of my usual suggestions as one approaches the amputation is to remember to treat the spirit as well as the body. Find something that they love and can still do during recovery, then exploit that love to give them a purpose to fight and put a smile on your face. I may have lost Miss Cherry in the end, but the TriPawd journey with her was an experience for all the family that is priceless. The memories that we created will carry me through these very bleak days but I will be able to remember my little imp with a smile.
Good Luck, Sending Pawsitive Thoughts, and Wishing a Speedy recovery,
Spirit Cherry's Dad
Welcome Molokai and family!
I'm sorry that you had to find us under the circumstances. I can only give you my warm wishes for a speedy recovery since I don't have a 3-legged through cancer (birth defect).
The next few weeks are going to be hard and they are going to get you really low at moments. But it will get better.
Please don't focus on the life expectancy, just like you didn't before you got this diagnoses. Dog's average life expectancy in a large breed is 10-13 years old. We don't even think about it when they are healthy. It's only crosses our minds periodically as they age.
Life is a funny…you never know what the future holds for any of us.
Plus, there may be a cancer cure tomorrow! Just stay pawsitive and enjoy each day.
Comet's mom
Comet - 1999 to 2011
She departed us unexpectedly January 23, 2011 at the age of 12 1/2.
She was born with a deformed front leg and a tripawd all of her life.
Hi Molokai and family!
We're sorry to hear about Molokai's diagnosis, but are happy you found us here at tripawds. I think the numbers vary a bit - Holly's oncologist said she sees an average of 4-6 months with only amputation and 14-16 months with amputation and chemotherapy. That said, you will find dogs here on tripawds who have opted for chemo and some who have not, and some from each group seem to beat the odds, and some from each group do not. I hate to say it, but to me it appears to be somewhat of a dice game. Sometimes it's hard not to think about life expectancy - I still do that more than I should. But I'm learning through my wise friends here that the most important thing is quality. So Holly and I enjoy life by celebrating all that she loves - taking walks, car rides, watching for her sister to come home from school, etc. And she doesn't know she has this horrible disease - so lives happily one day at a time.
Best wishes to Molokai as he recovers from his surgery!
Hugs,
Holly and Holly's mom
Holly joined the world of tripawds on 12/29/2009. She has a big little sister, Zuzu, who idolizes Holly and tries to make all of her toys into tripawds in Holly's honor. And she's enjoying life one hop at a time!
http://anyemery.....ipawds.com
Welcome Molokai and family!
I'm so sorry to hear about Molokai's diagnosis. Cancer really sucks… 
but you've come to the right place for info and support!
So far, everything folks have already told you is right… There are statistics… but there are always outlyers either way. My Jake was one of the ones who lost his battle just a little less than 8 weeks post amp… But most of those 8 weeks were wonderful and I wouldn't give that up for anything! There are many on here who are still around almost 1 year (or more) post op… some have done chemo, some haven't! There is always hope… but there is no cure…
The next 2 weeks will be the most difficult as Molokai recovers from his surgery. You'll have to help him get around while he's doped up on pain meds and figuring out how to balance on 3 legs. We used a sling for Jake until he got his staples removed 2 weeks post-op, then we used a ruffware harness. It was an incredible help for both him and us! Definitely look into it! My Jake also loved to swim, and he was able to do so right after the 2 week mark. It was great excercise for him… and it was something he loved to do. You can check out Jake's story, pictures and vidoes on his blog at Jake's Journey.
You should also think about starting Molokai his very own blog. It was not only very therapeutic for me, but was also a great way for family and friends to keep updated on his progress.
Wishing Molokai a quick and speedy recovery from his amputation… Keep us posted on his progress!!
Angel Jake's Mom
Jake, 10yr old golden retriever (fractured his front right leg on 9/1, bone biopsy revealed osteosarcoma on 9/10, amputation on 9/17) and his family Marguerite, Jacques and Wolfie, 5yr old german shepherd and the newest addition to the family, Nala, a 7mth old Bengal mix kittie. Jake lost his battle on 11/9/2009, almost 8 weeks after his surgery. We will never forget our sweet golden angel… http://jakesjou.....ipawds.com ….. CANCER SUCKS!
Welcome Molokai and family!!
Magic turned 11 in February and on March 11th lost his left front leg to osteosarcoma … we went thru one chemo treatment and when he went in for his second they did chest xrays and he has lung mets. They did a different chemo that day and we have new xrays coming on Friday (do I need to say nervous doesn't begin to describe the feeling!)…
This is the most wonderful site you have found…the people here are a community and if it has happened, someone here will have experienced it. The range of survival rates is unbelievable, but one thing that everyone says and they are absolutely right….if we focus on the bad stuff and the survival rates and the statistics, before we know it, the time we have left will be gone. Thus far, Magic is acting like he is a youngster again…going to parks, romping with new friends, I just find his ability to even walk, let alone do all these things, has amazed me to no end.
I do not know how long our future together will be (I also have a 17 year old cat in kidney failure….but at 13 he started three years of chemo) but I do know that regardless of tests and xrays, the way he feels and appears to feel is going to be my gauge. He is probably getting more attention, more massages, more rides, more play dates, better treats, more people food, etc etc than he has in his whole entire life!!!! Spoiled does not begin to describe it.
Here goes the Magic and Mom suggestion….do yourself a HUGE favor and get a Ruff Wear harness (you can find them right here on Tripawds)…Molokai is a big boy (Magic was 114 going in and thank goodness has lost weight…a better weight for him is around 95) and that harness has saved what is left of my body (and that isn't much!!) Check with your vet to see when you can use it…I used it as soon as I got it but Magic's incision was wrapped. Magic was also a front amp..you didn't say about Molokai but they work for either. Trust me…it is a real asset (unless you are a weight lifter!) Also get some non-skid throw rugs for any areas of tile, laminate, wood, any place slippery. Magic hated the ramps I raced to provide and preferred doing the steps.
Good luck to you and come back often and keep us posted. There is so much information here that it will take a whille to absorb it all. Welcome to the family…
Welcome Molokai,
Tai also had/has osteosarcoma. Although we tend to dwell on the life expectancy numbers, its so hard not to, in the end it really is counter-productive. Enjoy every moment that you have and create lots of great memories along the way. Let him know how much you love him and try try try to stay positive. It will be VERY hard at times there is no question about that, but we are here to provide a shoulder to lean on and we'll support you and Molokai 150%.
Lots of hugs and sloppy labrador kisses coming your way
Tai Dog and Laura
Tai – 9 yr old lab. Diagnosed Osteosarcoma Dec 18/09. Front right leg amputated Dec 21/09. Started chemo Jan 7/10. Lung mets discovered Sept 16/10. Valiant to the end on Oct 26/10 when cancer reappeared in a leg and we made the decision to set her free. Forever in my heart where not even cancer can take her from me.
Hey there Malokai,
Welcome to an awesome community. Although it is a horrible diagnosis the folks on this website were crucial to me during Jack's recovery. Jack was 6 when he was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma and had his amputation on October 6,2009. The first month after his surgery was absolutely grueling. I was working from home but the first two weeks he wasn't sleeping much at night. He is now going and blowing up and downstairs and running me down in the yard. I am really proud of him. I started chemo with him and completed 6 rounds. All of this is super expensive so you need to decide how much you are willing to spend. Jack was my first pup and I don't have kids yet so he is my kid...I am willing to do whatever I can to make sure his quality of life is a great one. He is a 100 lb Rhodesian Ridgeback and loves being a dog. That is what I focus on and to be honest we don't talk about his prognosis much with his oncologist. As long as he is happy and loving life then I am happy. Wish you guys the best during recovery... HANG IN THERE
Erin and Jack
Welcome Molokai to our family! We would prefer not to have new 'cancer' members, but science hasn't made that possible yet. You have lots of great advice here. The very best thing you can do for yourself is to forget about statistics. They are only numbers, and as Cherry's dad pointed out there are lots of variables to take into consideration when dealing with statistics. And as I've told many others, there is no time stamp on their butt. Enjoy the time you have.
Focus on making the time you have left the best it can be for both you and Molokai. Enjoy the walks, the snuggles, the rides - anything the two of you do thogether.
We all have our 'down' time, the time when nothing will push the worry from our minds, but we come here to chase it away to revitalize ourselves, so we can be the best we can be for our fur children.
Wishing you a speedy recovery - it really is a tough way to start your journey. We've all done it, and there are lots of posts about recovery hell when you are awake at 2AM and can't sleep, you can go back and read some of them.
Rest while Molokai rests - the best advice ever!
Shanna & Spirit Trouble ~ Trouble gained her wings 3/16/2011, a 27 1/2 month cancer survivor, tail wagging. RIP sweetheart, you are my heart and soul. Run free at Rainbow Bridge.
The November Five - Spirits Max, Cherry, Tika, Trouble & Nova. 11/2008 - 3/2013 An era ends as Queen Nova crossed the Bridge.
How is Molokai doing? I have been away from the computer so I am late coming to your post. I'm sorry about Molokai's diagnonsis. I will never forget the feeling of hearing the word cancer. At the time, I did not even know dog's could get cancer! Like everyone else said try not to focus on the cancer. Each day is a gift, for all of us, we just don't think about it like we should. Build up your memories and hold them in your heart. There will plenty of time to grieve later so don't rob yourself and Molokai of this time together.
Debra & Angel Emily
Debra & Emily, a five year old doberman mix, who was diagnosed with an osteosaecoma. She had a right rear leg amputation on May 19, 2009. On November 10, 2009 she earned her wings and regained her fourth leg.
Aloha All,
Molokai is home and doing well. I was fortunate enough to be able to bring him to my work as I manage a large residental property and he stayed in my office.
Molokai spent two days w/ me after the surgery as he has a brother from his litter and a G. Shepherd sister that is younger. He was able to get some rest away from the other kidz and make some new human friends as well.
I appreciate the advice and kind words from everyone and I am amazed at how well he is adapting to his new "Wheels". I am just waiting for his stitches to come out in a week as he has a brand new Double-back harness waiting for him.
Thanks for all the support and advice.
Warmth and Aloha,
Kevin
Sounds like a great recovery is under way. Bauer is now 2-days post-amputation, still at the vet. I have to figure out which harness to order him.
I'm glad you got such great support and advice from the community, like I have been getting for Bauer. It is one of life's cruel ironies that we humans are bound to outlive most of our awesome dogs. But knowing that, and living with cheerful and resiliant dogs dealing with difficult diseases, it's clear we're privileged to know and love them.
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