Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi, my Blue Heeler Stella is 8 1/2, diagnosed with Osteosarcoma of the humerous of the right front leg, and is out of surgery 2 days, and not walking much. We'll need to take her back to the vet to get a dressing changed in 2 days, and wonder how people deal with transporting heavy dogs up and down stairs when they DEFINITELY dont want to be picked up. Right now she can take a few steps before stopping and laying down on a flat surface, and even though I carried her up, I doubt I can take her down. Thoughts? She's 60 lbs, so big for a Heeler.
Thanks,
Doug
Hi Doug and Stella, welcome! Your future posts won't need to wait for approval so post away.
So at two days out, that's not a long time at all as you know. Pain medication can add to that unsteadiness, but you want to keep her comfortable so it's a worthwhile trade off right now. What kind of medication is she on? How much and how often?
Stairs are really tricky for any Tripawd but especially right now during recovery. You can try making a DIY recovery sling to see if she will let you assist that way. Use extra care going down stairs, especially if they are slippery. And if you can avoid using them at all, I would, at least until her stitches are out.
Once recovery is over we recommend using a Ruffwear Flagline harness to assist her on those stairs. But we don't recommend using a harness now on the off chance that the straps may bother her incision area.
Also, do consider making an appointment with a canine rehab therapist. They can show you some really good tips on how to help her stay strong, lean, and injury free. And Tripawds Foundation can pay for your first rehab visit too!
Please keep us posted on how she's doing. Things do get better!
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