Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Thank you Jerry,
The pain meds are helping but only because they knock her out for several hours but they are certainly not addressing the root of her problem. When the meds start wearing off Boots is restless, panting and she will bark in the middle of the night for us to either move her or we try massaging her legs but her back left leg is sensitive to the touch. I am going to call the rehab place tomorrow and schedule an appointment as soon as they can see her. The facility here provides an entire assortment of treatment options for mobility and pain management so this gives me hope that maybe they can detect or diagnose her leg issue and get her on a treatment plan and road to recovery. I appreciate the advice and follow-up. Thank you and will keep everyone posted.
Yes, good move. Rehab teams take such a different approach to tricky pain situations, they often see things that other vets don't.
Let the clinic know of the acute nature of her situation. Jot everything down (symptoms) before you call so you can convey the information clearly so they get this is really urgent that she gets seen this week.
You're right. Pain medication doesn't address the root of the problem. But it does help the body to calm down so that it can work on healing itself. So as zonked as she might be, keep reminding yourself that rest is medicinal, it's part of the process.
Poor Boots! I'm sorry you guys are in this spot. Please keep us posted.
Small update on Boots - she had a rough night last night. She was restless and she did not get a lot of sleep. She is now out of her prescription probiotic and has not had much of an appetite today but she is resting better (likely because of the meds). We have an appointment with the Rehab Vet Therapist tomorrow afternoon so hoping something good comes from that. I noticed something else that concerned me today and that is her hind legs (more so her pawpads) are noticeably colder than her remaining front paw pad. I am assuming its a blood flow/circulation thing but very concerned about this. Tomorrow can’t come soon enough!
Hey thanks for the update. At least she is resting and taking it easy. I hope you are able to do that too. Did the vet check in yesterday?
Don't forget our appetite tips, and our pilling tips may get her a little excited about small bits of food right now. Keep her hydrated with no-salt broth or tuna water to see if she'll drink.
I'm guessng the colder hind pawpads are a circulation issue. See if some very gentle massage helps, and maybe a little moist heat (washcloth) to see if that makes her more comfortable.
Yes, tomorrow should give you some extra insight that help Boots feel better. Stay strong!
Boots update - Boots went to the Rehab Specialist today and they were absolutely amazing. Unfortunately, we also received the cytology results and they have confirmed that Boots has a very aggressive form of cancer that is in her liver and spleen. All of the symptoms that she has been displaying are a result of the rapid advancement of the cancer that seemed to have come from nowhere. She came home with us but at this point its just a matter of time. My wife and I are heartbroken with a small bit of relief to at least know what is going on but it does not make any of this easier. I just want to say, thank you to everyone that has offered their support and encouragement through these last few weeks. I wish I had better news. Please say a prayer for Boots and wish her love and hugs in her eternal journey.
So heartbroken for you three, and saying a prayer here for Boots. 
As you say, a small relief to finally have clarity, but not at all the sort we were all hoping for.😢
Will be carrying you in my heart in the coming days (weeks? …) as she transitions, surrounded there by so much love and here as well at a distance, no doubt, from all of us here as we’ve had the brief privilege of following and/or joining in Boots’ journey. (((((((hugs))))))))
PS - I've noticed that @jerry is very good at palliative/hospice recommendations if you need them, so please don’t be strangers if you need any help in this chapter.
Natalie & Juno (aka June)
Ohhhhh nooooo! I'm so very, very sorry. This is such a gut punch that nobody ever expects, my heart goes out to all of you.
Spoil that girl rotten for us OK? Give her extra treats and a puppacino! Check off bucket list things she can do at home, and know that she is well-aware of what a very lucky girl she is to be so cherished.
Did the vet give you any kind of hospice advice or plans, or palliative care to keep her comfortable? If there's anything we can do to help please let us know.
Oh, Erica, I’m so sorry to hear this news about Boots. My heart aches for you. May she transition surrounded by love and peace. And may you find peace, as well, knowing that you did all you could to make her time with you so special. She’s a lucky girl to have been loved so much.
Robin & Summer
Thank you all for the kind words for Boots and my wife and I. These last 24 hours have been the worst and mainly because of the emotion with all of this. Boots is still with us and resting. We would like her eternal journey to begin here at home where her physical journey ends but (I have to honest) trying to pick a date/time is the most difficult decision at this point. I feel as though I am ready but my wife is not quite there yet and I certainly don’t want to add pressure/stress to an already horrible situation. I just want what’s best for Boots but also respecting my wife’s feelings as well. 1 day at a time…
I'm so sorry you guys are at this point. Even if your wife isn't quite ready to say good bye, you may want to try to find a vet and schedule something. You can always cancel if you think Boots is still doing OK. I've heard from a few people that home euthanasia vets are often booked a few weeks out.
It's a tough spot for sure. I think that having a hospice vet come in to evaluate Boots can help you and your wife reach an agreement. Hospice vets are angels on earth, so compassionate and so grounding at a time like this. If you like help finding one just let me know your location via PM.
Final update on Boots - she transitioned over the rainbow bridge last night. She passed at home with my wife and I by her side. It was very peaceful…..
Ohhhhh Erica. My heart hurts for you both. I am truly sorry. This is just heartbreaking and unimaginable.
Please try to take comfort knowing she didn't suffer, that you stood by her through the good and bad, and you gave the the ultimate gift to transition in peace. You were so amazing and loving, and selfless. No dog could ever ask for more than what you gave to her.
May her loving soul surround you for eternity, and stay by your side in this world. We stand by your side and send loving energy across the miles.
Erica, I’m so sorry. May Boots run free. She earned her wings for sure, and you and your wife did everything you could. I’m sure Boots knew you were right there for her. I hope you find comfort in all the good memories you have of her.
Robin & Summer
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