Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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My dog had her front left leg amputated in late March and has recovered great since then except for her rear right leg has been cramping a lot. We have taken her in to the vet and the only recommendation at this time is take her to a physical therapist, but my wife and I both work long hours so finding time when PT's are open is very difficult. I was hoping to find out if other people have experienced similar things after other front leg amps. She is ~60 pounds, and a mutt.
We have tried massaging her leg and stretching it when she lays down, and this doesn't seem to have any effect. Also, when taking her outside and she sees a cat or taking her to her vet, she is able to pull hard on the leash and move around. Finally, she doesn't seem to be in any pain, just discomfort.
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Welcome Jonathan, please consider registering to take full advantage of these forums.
What's your pup's name? She may be overdoing it. Be sure to incorporate some strengthening exercises and keep walks short until she's stronger. (Walking does not increase strength, only endurance.)
Consider watching our tripawd rehab vet interview videos for more exercise and stretching tips. Most importantly, when massaging, consistency is key so keep it up. A hot/cold pain relief pack may also be helpful. If you can squeeze in one consultation with a certified rehab vet, you should be able to get some great advice and homework to do with your dog. Good luck!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Welcome Jonathon. I'm sorry to hear about your pup's leg.
Something that pops into my mind is, have you massaged her back also? Sometimes a spasm could be coming from the spine. You can also use a heating pad with a moist dish towel under it on her back (warm the dish towel in the microwave) Put it on her lower spine if she'll let you. And leave it for 20 minutes if you can. I used to do this for my dog. She'd lay down and I'd put the moist dish towl on her and then the heating pad on top and then I added big heavy towels to hold it place. I also put a floor fan on her so she wouldn't get hot. She loved it.
I'm assuming the vet doesn't think anything is wrong with her leg or spine? If not, can you get him to prescribed a muscle relaxer to give her at bedtime? My vet prescribed a muscle relaxer for my dog for bedtime. It really seemed to help her relax. She was 3 legged for her entire life and in her geriatric years, the hopping took a toll on her body.
I hope whatever the problem is, it gets better for your gal.
Good luck!
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.
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