Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
Tripawds is your home to learn how to care for a three legged dog or cat, with answers about dog leg amputation, and cat amputation recovery from many years of member experiences.
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Dave said:
I am glad I found this site...
And we're glad you found us too! Plese consider registerring for the forums so your posts will appear immediately without requiring moderation. You may also want to start your own topic so everyone can chime in and follow your pup's progress.
Amputation is indeed the only way to eliminate pain and extend quality of life. And alas, the cancer will eventually return. But you'll be amazed how well most dogs adapt and enjoy life on three legs. We all understand the difficult decisions you face, and look forward to your updates.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Sam Update and response to Dave:
I can not believe it has been 3 weeks on Monday - Sam is back to himself - we were so worried for the first 2 weeks - he seemed miserable - then at almost exactly the 2 week mark something changed in his eyes - his light was back - we finished weening him off his pain meds - and there he was! back with us, smiling, wagging and perking his ears when we talk to him. Yesterday he picked up the ball and "winged" it at me like he used to - I knew he wanted to play but I was afraid he'd hurt himself - I threw it very gently and he went running after it - I now give him about 5 throws at a time - let him rest - and he's ready to go. The most amazing part is that he started his chemo on Friday - and he is really fine - just a bit of nausea on the first everning - otherwise no other side effects.
Please believe me Dave, this is a life-changer for your good dog - Sam was in so much pain before the surgery and now he is not - everyday is a joy for him and for us. However long we have with him, his quality of life has been restored - after a difficult two weeks this is truly a miracle - I hope you take the words from all those on this site - you have support here - it will be hard right after the operation - but it's so worth it!
I wish you the best, Dave. And I sincerely thank all of those on this forum who took the time to respond to my questions - and all those that are going through this difficult but rewarding time. I couldn't do it without you!
Love to all from Sam and Paul and Sally
Sally said:
... everyday is a joy for him and for us. However long we have with him ...
That's the spirit! 
Glad to hear Sam is back to his happy self. Sounds like a classic case of "get me off these crazy pain meds!" ... Give him time and as he rebuilds his stregnth, he'll continue to blow you away, I'm sure.
Thanks for sharing your experience and advice with everyone here. It is certain to help others facing the same difficult decisions with their pups.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Sally,
I'm so glad to hear Sam "is back" it's an inspiration for those of us not quite there yet. My Toffee is making great strides almost a week after surgery, but I completely understand about the "light" not being there.
Thank you for letting us newcomers know that it's only going to get better!
Best to you and Sam,
Laura
Yeah Sam,
Glad to hear you are back to your old self. Isn't amazing what a difference 2 weeks makes. For all you newcomers- that 2 weeks of recovery is "hell". No nice way to put it. And yes you will really doubt your decision, and wonder will life ever be the same again.
It is amazing how once the meds are gone you hardly remember your dog with 4 legs.
We only had Wrigley around for 3 months after her amputation, but each and every day of those 3 months she continued to amaze us with her figthing spirit. She taught us so much about perserverence and overcoming anything that life throws at you. We will be forever grateful for the time the ampuataion gave us- pain free time to enjoy our Wrigley.
We wish you all the best- hang in there everyone who is just starting this journey- it really does get better.
Seanne and Angel Wrigley
However long we have with him, his quality of life has been restored - after a difficult two weeks this is truly a miracle
Sally,
You have truly "hit the nail on the head" with that observation. It is only about the restoration of the quality of their life. You are doing extremely well with Sam and while you have experienced many of the same problems those who have gone on the journey have experienced, articulating these experiences not only helps you but also helps all the others who have come to depend upon this site. You most likely have gone through the worst of the journey, but do not be discouraged if there are more bumps in the road. When we started, I stated then that it was all about the quality of Cherry's life, and regardless of how long or short the remaining time, I would be thankful if she could enjoy that time. We have finished six and are now on our seventh month of recovery and that recovery has been everything I could have hoped. It was not an easy journey, but well worth the investment. We all have our paws crossed that Sam will continue to improve and that you can experience a very long and full quality of life with him.
Bob & Cherry
I am so glad to hear that Sam has his light back! We all know what you man. My doberman mix, Emily, had her amputation 9 days ago. It is good to know that we are doing all we can for her. She is family.
Dave, if you are reading this please know that the amputation is harder for us than for them. It is hard to see my beautiful baby with only three legs. Emily, however, is glad to be out of pain and is running and playing. Her biggest "complaint" if when she has to wear her e-collar. Amputation is expensive. It is a hard decision to make and my prayers are with you.
Debra
Reply to Emily' s Mom:
Rather than the E-collar, try putt a t-shirt on Emily - pinned or tied so it fits - it's much more comfortable for her and works well to keep her from licking the scar. The E-collar can drive them crazy - especially after that big ordeal she just went through!
Good luck - Sally
I used a toddlers tee shirt for Trouble the first couple of weeks. She really wasn't bad about chewing at the surgery site, but she wanted to lay on the ground and I didn't want it to become infected.
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.
A sock lightly taped onto the rear foot can also protect from scratching, if applicable (i.e.; front leg amputation).
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
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