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| Name: Mustkill Barney Website: http://killbarney.tripawds.com Bio: Barney was always a favorite of Jerry … and his greatest nemesis. |
Recent Posts (All Posts)
| KillBarney Tour Taking A Break After much deliberation at Tripawds HQ, the KillBarney Tour has been suspended until further notice. [captio (More) |
| The Devil Went Down to Georgia What a tough little dino that Barney is, nothing will stop him! After surviving the most insane adventures EVER with Happy Hann (More) |
| Barney Parties with Happy Hannah! Happy Hannah had a pre-party for her one year More) |
| Word From Barney At Last! If you're as anxious to hear about Barney's latest adventures as we have been, check this out from More) |
| Barney Helps Wyatt Heal While we wait for news about the next adventures of the KillBarney Tour, Spirit Jerry's More) |
I would love a copy of this article for the rescue where I adopted Shu from. Is it possible to get one to provide for them? It’s terrific and thanking goodness I found you on my own!
Sure thing Subeanie’s Mom, thanks for asking! We know printing a web page is tricky so we created this infographic about adopting a Tripawd. You can print that and it will direct people to this page. Thanks again!
Mr B now has this kind of dressing. He is much happier with it, and far less restricted.
Oh good to know! Are you having to change it? I’m so glad he’s happier, poor guy’s been through so much (and you as well). Keep up the healing!
Hi everyone! My tripawed cat is doing great ( aptutation in December) but he can NOT aim in the litter box. There is pee everywhere! Any advice? We have a covered box and an uncovered box.
Hi Laura, glad your cat is doing great!Have you tried making a low-sided litter box out of cardboard? Check out Feta’s blog post, “Litterbox Mods for Severely Disabled Kitties.” Also, come visit us in our Three Legged Cats Discussion Forum topic for more ideas from members. Hope to see you there!
Hiya my 1 year 7 month old Cockapoo, Female decided to prance around and took a fall off the sofa and we had to amputate her back left leg (14th Feb 2020) her recovery was fast and I’m so happy with the results.. However, for the past couple of days I’ve been checking her but I had to put her cone back on as she’s has a very small, reddish lump on her stomp. Its soft but it hasn’t affected her in any way.. She’s just been herself, jumping around, eating, drinking, playing etc etc.. I hope its nothing to worry about but I have now started to put the cone on so that she doesn’t irritate it but it does look like it’s getting better.
I hope there’s someone out there who is going through the same as I really don’t know what it is or how she got it.
Hi Kerry, glad your girl is doing well. It could be a suture reaction, I would let your vet know about it. Also, please come visit us in the Tripawds Discussion Forums for faster help from the community. Hope to see you there!
I have a Belgian malinois that has a deformed left leg they said I would have to amputate I’m a single mother of three is there any help out there that I could look for
Best wishes for your pup! Start here for help finding numerous free resources and plenty of support from others in the blogs and forums. The Tripawds Foundation also offers various assistance programs.
My 5year old Rottweiler berry had Carcinoma in her rear leg and we had to amputate her leg in November! But from February the amputated part has become really hard as a stone and there is a swelling in the part ! She has lost her old charm and is having troubles walking or standing up and tends to drag while she has to get up ! Please help !!
I’m so sorry to hear that Aishwarya. The best thing you can do right now is have her checked out by a veterinarian. I hope it’s nothing serious. You can keep us posted in our Discussion Forums.
Very helpful info. My pit one and half year old is 8 days out. She is very tired sits and stares not interested in toys, bones that she loved. But seems this can be normal for some. I pray she gets back to her spunky self after staples are removed in a few days.
Jackie please pop into our Discussion Forums so we can help you better. Yes, only eight days out is not a long time but if her pain isn’t well managed from the beginning, this kind of behavior can occur. Glad she made it through surgery but please keep us posted on how she’s doing OK?
YAY TriPod, YOU ROCK !! WE ARE GETTING A THRID TRIPOD IN OUR FAMILY, THE OTHER TWO HAVE SADLY PASSED AWAY, THEY WERE ALSO BOTH PET THERAPY DOGS AND ALSO R.E. A.D. DOGS *KIDS PRACTICED THEIR READING (TO THE DOGS) AT THE LIBRARY. WITH OUR NEW, VERY YOUNG, 9 MOS OLD, TRIPOD, UNNAMED AS OF YET, WE HOPE TO FOLLOW IN HER SISTERS PAWSTEPS. THANKS FOR SHARING YOUR STORY AND LOVELY MEMORIES.
TO-BE-NAMED TRIPOD (HOPSCOTCH, BUT WE PLAN ON CHANGING THAT TO A PRETTY GIRLY NAME) AND SOON-TO-BE-IN-HER-NEW-HOME !!
~CHRISTINE. (sorry for all the caps….didn’t notice when I was typing, but we certainly do mean YOU ROCK, TRIPOD !!
Thanks for all your enthusiasm Christine! You are a Tripawd Mom rock star! Send us your story, we would be happy to share it. Keep up the great work!
Reading about Wyatt is helpful for me as I have 10 1/2 year old Bonz a English Lab who is 2 years into his amputation of a rear leg. Bonz has always been active, hiking and swimming with our other dogs. Recently, I have noticed that he tires more easily on our regular 2 1/2 mile walks and sometimes will have problems getting up stairs for bed. Even without the amputation, I remind myself that he is aging. To make things easier I have reduced the days when we go the full 2 1/2 miles to half routes of shorter but different lengths. During the winter when we don’t worry about snakes, we tend to take walks in the back country. During the summer, we walk on a paved trail. I have begun to consider purchasing a stroller that would accommodate his 75# although I’m not sure he would agree to use it! We use a very simple sling to help Bonz getting up stairs when he seems to need it. I have also added a Twister Step to the back of my SUV to assist him getting into the car along with the sling. He gets that these things are designed to help him and will wait for me to wrap the sling around his waist before trying to step into the car.
Thanks for commentinging. Senior Tripawds Rule! Please consider sharing your story! There are many ways to pay tribute and help inspire others.
My Cooper (front leg amputee at 7 months old) turns 9 years old this coming November!
Hard to believe. All of a sudden they are seniors. We already pamper him and try to make him slow down in terms of playing fetch (his favorite). He’s still able to leap into the car like a kangaroo, using those powerful, muscular hind legs. He is an amazing creature.
Thanks guys, Awesome advise.
Aksel_Rose has always needed extra grip for smooth floors. She likes her grippy boots.
She will wear one on her remaining hind leg almost everywhere we go outside of the house. At home I am the master of the carpet runners. They are everywhere!!
Although Aksel is only 4.5 y.o. we always need to think ahead and be prepared..
Our fur-kids are everything!!!
Kathy you are doing such a great job with Aksel, it will pay off big time as she ages!
Hi Jerry,
Thank you so much for your great tips. My tripawd girl is only 2 and I hope that she will be pain free as long as possible. I do what you have suggested already. I learned canine massage, we do short walks, mostly 30 – 45 min. , a lot of swimming, joint supplements and a balanced raw diet. I am studying vet nursing now and also have a physiotherapist and two great vets at hand. When she gets older I will buy a dog stroller. Wheelchair won’t work for a front limb amputee. I love her so much and will do everything I can to make life easier for her.
Thank you for managing this group. It’s full of good information and great support.
Warm regards and pats ,
Andrea & Tilly (doggy)
Andrea & Tilly, thanks for sharing your experience! Tilly is going to age very well thanks to the terrific team she has on her side. Keep up the great work!
Great points. Getting older can lead to arthritis and other pain. Not having a limb equals more stress on remaining limbs means more pain.
Thanks for sharing this. I look forward to Part II. With TriPod turning 9 in January he is definitely a senior dog now. So hard to believe…. I’m sure it was just yesterday that he was a puppy. Thank you for all you do. I am now looking into getting him some front “wheels” to take some stress off that front leg. Any thoughts on a good place to look?
Hi Denna. We just published Part II yesterday so check it out. I’m glad you found it useful. Meanwhile before getting a wheelchair, be sure to check out our wheelchair article for some tips. Let us know how it goes and what you decide on. TPod is gonna rock and roll ’em!
Can this webinar still be viewed?
Only to paid subscribers at this point. But stay tuned, Dr. Waterhouse has big news for the Tripawds community soon!
Wow, thanks for the incredible story Jerry. I feel your spirit with me! Thanks for telling us what is most important in our lives. Sometimes as humans we forget the simple facts of life! What a beautiful story!
Sunny’s mom
Nesamoney
Thanks for the kind words! In case you missed it, Jerry’s full life story, and the many lessons he taught us, is now available in our new book, Be More Dog: Learning to Live in the Now.
My greyhound got diagnosed with osteosarcoma on January 13th 2020 in the hind limb. The entire week went by so quickly. We did a met check the following day and all was clear, no sign of mets to the lungs or elsewhere. We drew labs and they were incredible. We scheduled his hind limb amputation for that Friday January 17th 2020. All was moving quickly and in the right direction. We consulted with many vets and amputation was the best option as the limb had visible bone swelling and a micro fracture already. My boy wasn’t suffering, he was a retired racer and quite stoic and I had him on gaba and rimadyl for pain. He had survived a lot, including a rattlesnake bite in the past and a heart attack from the venom. It’s heartbreaking to receive this sort of diagnosis with your beloved animal. We brought my boy in for his surgery Friday the 17th and all seemed well. He was stable throughout the procedure, vitals, potassium, everything. I went over everything with his surgeon prior to the procedure. I informed her of his cardiac issues (mitral valve regurgitation, heart murmur, past MI, etc). Apparently everything looked fantastic that morning, ECG, EKG, etc. I got a call that he was waking up from surgery and all had gone well. 5 minutes later I got a call that my boy had endured a massive heart attack and was deceased. Resuscitation efforts, atropine, etc, had failed. It is VERY difficult to make sense of a situation like this. I never once blamed anyone, I work in hospice and healthcare myself, things can go wrong. I just still am wondering what transpired with him. They knew and understood greyhound protocols and abided by them for his surgery. Everything was done right and he was completely stable prior and during surgery. I am not a vet and I’m curious if any vets read this what their perspective is. My boy didn’t have DCM, nothing like that. Osteosarcoma with a stage 2 diagnosis. Underlying cardiovascular issues sure, mitral valve regurg and a grade 2 murmur. I still wonder what happened. Everyone attending said he was coming out of surgery and his respiratory rate increased then his heart just stopped entirely. It’s very sad to lose your pet this way and I can’t seem to find any similar stories anywhere. Vets I know said he must have thrown a clot or had a heart defect that we weren’t aware of and couldn’t have been aware of. I don’t mean to scare anyone into not amputating, I just share my boys story to bring awareness that stuff can go south even when you were on the right path all along. You just never know. Cherish your pets. My boy was just shy of his 8th birthday. He was my therapy dog.
So sorry for your loss…thank you for sharing your story.
I’m so sorry about your pup, this is heartbreaking and I can only imagine your grief. Please consider posting in our “Coping with Loss” Discussion Forum topic so that others in the community can chime in OK? My deepest condolences to you and your pack.
Thank you so much. I just wanted to share his story. He had a quick diagnosis that was so acute and out of nowhere and a death that was so sudden as well. The tragic part or the most saddening part is that my birthday was on the 11th and we had hiked 5 plus miles in snow. I had no idea he had cancer. Fast forward to two days later and he was diagnosed then dead by the 17th. It’s amazing what our pets will endure and how well they hide their suffering. Initially the attending vet on the 13th chalked it all up to a soft tissue injury but after radiology looked they determined it was osteosarcoma.
This is so interesting. Our Nico is 12 yrs old Boxer and had his rear leg amp 8 days ago. His rear leg does buckle at times like Wyatt’s, especially on our slick hardwood floors. Thanks for the wheelchair idea, it may come in handy. Best wishes of health to Wyatt.
Best wishes for Nico! Providing good traction on slick floors is very important, to help prevent injury. Find many traction solutions for Trip awds in the gear blog. And once Nico is healed up, please consider consulting with a certified rehab vet/tech for an orthopedic evaluation, treatment recommendations and strengthening exercises you can do at home. Visit a CCRT or CCCRP and the Tripawds Foundation can even pay for your first visit from the Maggie Moo Fund for Tripawd Rehab!
Wyatt really hit the jackpot with his pawrents. I love the attention that you pay to his needs on the active, and not so active days. Thanks so much for sharing. He really does well as a GSD tripawd. Mitch had 4 legs and did not get around nearly as well. All that hard work has really helped him as he goes through his golden years.
Lots of hugs and love to you all!
Jackie and Huck
Thanks Jackie. It’s quite a balancing act with senior dogs isn’t it? We all do our best and the animals are grateful for it.
Thanks for sharing this. It is helpful for everyone
xoxoxo
Michelle & Angels Sassy & Bosch
Aww thanks Michelle. We pet parents need to share all the info about stuff like this that we can.
My Benny had leg amputated today due to i osteosarcoma. Brought him home around 5. He has slept most of the time. He has been whimpering for the past hour or more. Is that normal? I did get him to take his pills with some meat. Thank goodness! Any suggestions for post surgery care would be appreciated so much!
Best wishes for Benny! That type of behavior sounds perfectly normal for a dog that came home from amputation surgery the same day. He will still be coming down of the anesthesia medication for a while, and needs nothing but confinement and rest right now. Make sure you stay on top of the pain management, consult your vet with any serious concerns, and find many other posts about what to expect here in the Tripawds News blog. Or, start here for help finding the many other resources and assistance programs.
I was lucky with my 3 cats when I brought Sky home. Actually he didn’t smell like the hospital as my wonderful vet kept him at her home for the first 2 nights. I have a very large carpeted closet – actually was called a bedroom technically – that I set up and it was quiet and warm for Sky. I put a gate across the door so the other 2 could sniff him. No hissing or any bad behavior. When I eventually let them get together, my least social rescue cat began grooming Sky. That was well over a year ago. He still grooms him to this day. <3 . So we had no issues thankfully with the other cats. It was hard enough as it was!
Thanks for the feedback!
So wrong. The vet school at Texas A&M is not cheaper, in fact, it is higher. They also do more tests, thereby raising the cost even more. The care is excellent, but be prepared for a large bill.
Hi Marian. Well, the article was written in 2014 so costs have gone up everywhere accordingly. As for diagnostics, in our experience the amount of workup really depends on the condition the vets are trying to diagnose. Either way, yes, we can definitely agree that the Aggies are fabulous!
My greyhound has Osteosarcoma in the humerus of her right front leg. do we need to have her leg amputated before undergoing this treatment? There is no evidence of metastasis so far and we’ve gone through two rounds of palliative radiation recently. We live in San Diego county and would like to know if a clinical trial is available in our area as well as the participation cost. Thank you for your help!
Hi George, for the latest criteria we suggest contacting Aratana at 1-844-ARATANA (272-8262). They can help you find a local clinic participating in the trial (and I do believe you have one in San Diego). Please join us in our Discussion Forums so we can help you and your pup. Best wishes to you both.
Thank you for this <3
Murphy made it well past that 23 months – he lived over 4 years past his amputation. So proud of how well that boy did.
Donna
Thanks for that reminder Donna! I totally forgot to include that very important milestone. Murphy is a LEGEND! xoxoxo
<3 <3 <3 True Warriors.
You know it Michelle! These pups, all of them, are so much stronger than we ever could be. Amazing.
So proud of the latest Odaroloc tripawd!
Thank you for sharing Tana’s story, it gives us such hope! We have adopted a GS tripaw under similar circumstances. His front left leg was amputated at 16 weeks of age due to an attack by another dog. The owner at the time was going to have him put down but at the vets urging surrendered him to a rescue. Louie is now 8 months and teaching us what a survivor he is. He trust us, is growing happily while his PTSD is getting fewer and far between surfacing.
We are hoping that he will one day figure out how to maneuver stairs like your Tana did.
Louie can now get himself on and off the couch…. what a wonderful day it will be if and when he can get himself in and out of the car 🙂
C
Thanks for the comment! Please consider getting rehab for your pup, and he’ll be tackling those stairs in no time! Consult with a CCRT or CCRP and the Tripawds Foundation can even pay for your first visit from the Maggie Moo Fund for Tripawd Rehab.
Hi our. Chocolate lab, Allie had bone cancer and had to have her front leg amputated on 12/19 The first 9 days were terrible, she did not eat for 9 days or want to get up. At one point she went over 30 hours without urinating. On the 9th day you can imagine how happy we were to find her standing and walking. Then she started to eat. 3 weeks into recovery we were feeling good then vet said she had dead skin in the area of the surgical site. We were relieved to learn it was not cancer, but once the stitches were removed we found this gapping hole. That is why the skin died, it did not connect to tissue under it. We’ve been nursing the whole for 12 days, it seems to be healing. Our last vet visit our vet said there was area the size of a pencil that is several inches deep with a hole. Is this normal? Is this bad veterinary work? Why is this not stitched closed? Really does seem like there is any thing to stitch to. So far it’s healing. The bummer is she can’t take chemo until healed and she is on pain medication and she is held back from being herself on pain medicine. Anyone ever heard of this? Thanks for any insights.
Hi Allie and family, welcome. We’re so glad she is on the mend! Fear not, others have gone through similar wound issues after amputation surgery. No, it’s not necessarily bad surgical work, it’s just something that occasionally happens. Sounds like your vet is confident it’s healing, that’s great! Please come to our Discussion Forums where we can help and support you on your journey OK? Hope to see you there.
Aww what a beautiful story and wonderful life you gave Tana. Thank you so much for sharing. <3 <3 <3
xoxo,
Martha
Hello, I am writing for some advice about my 13 year old jack russell Sonny. In the summer of 19 he developed a mass cell tumour. The tumour was removed however it has came back with vengeance. Our only option now us amputation, however he is of an age and has a heart murmur. Is this a massive risk. We and the vets think he could pull through and live another happy year or so. I just want other peoples perspectives? Thanks, Alice.
Alice, I’m sorry to hear about Sonny. To get other perspectives, please post in our Discussion Forums “Size and Age Matters.” My own perspective is that if you get at least two or three opinions from veterinarians, you can make a more confident decision. For a small dog, 13 isn’t that old and Sonny could go on to have at least a few more years of quality time. Good luck and please go to the Forums where the entire community can help you better OK?
Hello your story gives me hope. My 11 year old Siberian who thinks he is 6 just had this procedure done yesterday. We originally thought the tumor was not connected to bone via xrays. However when they went in to remove it they had to take 6 cm off near the very back side of the scapula from shoulder joint but still involved a good amount of muscles connections. Did you use any shoulder braces during recovery to help Liam to run again ? We are hopeful for full recovery for our pup And looking for things that worked. 🙂 Thank you
Best wishes for your pup! We met Liam shortly after his surgery, and do not believe he ever wore any sort of braces. Please consider posting in the Tripawds Forums for much more feedback and support from members, or start here for help finding the many other Tripawds resources.
Hi Wendy-
Liam had a shoulder wrap right after surgery, but that was more of a bandage than a brace. We followed our vet’s recommendations, and he never had any further issues from his shoulder. Liam passed away when he was 16 as a happy old guy, and his spirit still runs the snowy trails of my mind. Good luck with your Sibe – I am sure he will be up to his old ways soon.
Thank you for chiming in! 🙂
Tripawds Spokesdog Cadence is now and 8.5 year survivor. Her 9 year anniversary is July 29th! There was no vaccine available during Cadence’s diagnosis and recovery. Glad that is an option to help dogs live longer lives!
Oh my dog Heather! I can’t believe it’s been that long, I totally spaced on Rock Star Cadence’s longevity! WOWWW! Please send us a blog post with some photos and we will feature her in our Tripawd Tuesday blog post. The more long-term survivors we can share with the community, the better! CONGRATS!
Way to go Dexter and family! What a truly uplifting story. Dexter has beaten the odds and gives hope and inspiration to new tripawds and their families looking for support in their journey to beat this despicable disease. Happy birthday Dexter!
Jackie and Huckleberry
We are sitting in the surgeons office hoping he can do the scapulaectomy for our 7 yr old golden with osteo sarcoma…your article and video gave us a LOT if hope for the outcome!
Oh glad to hear it Tom! Please keep us posted, we hope it works out.
EXCITING!!! A lot to talk about indeed!
Loved seeing thus little video clip. Made me smile
Hope those facebooger people join our forums….just sayin’
Well Sally, great minds think alike, because that’s exactly our intention: to let the Facebooger folks know how much MORE pawesome life is over at Tripawds.com! Stay tuned.
My 3 year old Rottweiler had bilateral cruciate surgery in January 2019 as poor genetics gave her bad knees. The surgery and recovery went well. However 6 months later she just stopped using her right hind leg. The surgeon who preformed the surgery told us that her knee was “end stage” and it is what it is. I contacted Cornell University Companion Hospital for a consult. To my surprise, yes the right knee needs a complete replacement but it is the left rear knee that needs TPLO surgery as the original surgery failed and the femur slipped behind the tibia. Worst they’ve ever seen. Now I my girl is faced with surgery and a recovery that leave her with no rear limb for a time. Any words of advice?
Lisa we are so sorry to hear this, what a tough situation. Good for you for going and getting another opinion, by one of the best clinics in the country! My best suggestion is to stick with Cornell and have them do the surgery as well as the extensive rehabilitation therapy that will be needed for a good outcome. You may want to consider medically boarding her during the first few weeks after surgery, just to make it easier on you by leaving her early care to the experts. My other advice? Come post in our Discussion Forums where we can help keep you sane and hopeful OK? See you there.
Hello… I’m new here. My sweet Buddy was diagnosed with osteosarcoma couple days ago. I’m so heartbroken, confused and the sadness has taken over. Buddy is our family, he is the most incredible dog, so loyal and loving. Buddy is 12 years old and until now, he was in good health. I don’t know what to do. Can a 12 year old dog thrive after amputation?
Hi Dedee and Buddy, welcome. We are so sorry about the diagnosis, and can totally relate to your situation. Please come to our Discussion Forums and post in our “Size and Age Matters” topic, where you will find that yes, twelve year old dogs can do well on three as long as they are otherwise healthy. Please hop on over OK? We are waiting to help you there.
My 13 year old feline has small cell lymphoma. The vet is ordering chlorambucil and prednisone. I have to have the money to pay for it but it will be a hardship. Any ideas/comments/suggestions would be appreciated very much. Thank you.
Lynne
Best wishes for your kitty! Start here for help finding the many Tripawds Resources and assistance programs. Don’t miss the growing list of Tips for Tripawd Cats and post in the Three Legged Cats Forum for help and support from other tri-kitty members
Our pal Caira Sue was in an inhalation chemo study at Davis (I think) way back in 2009! Her mom Mary posted about all of them sitting around with their masks! https://cairasue.tripawds.com/2009/09/09/my-dog-thinks-im-nuts/
Woah! I totally remember that now, Karen! Thank you for sharing the link. I will include it in our follow-up story next week.
Thanks so much for bringing this to our attention! Fascinating!
Yeah, the length of time this study takes could be years. Of course, it’s sad that some of the placebo group would have to develop cancer in order to see if it is effective for those who had the actual treatment.
It would also be interesting if all the dogs were on same nutr6 plan, same supplement plan, same number of limited rabies vaccines, same general age of spying/neutering (or left “intact”), etc. That said, most of that is probably addressed in some form or another in the paperwork and follow up.
To think this might work would be the miracle we all want!!
With appreciation
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
I agree Sally! What IF we could have them all on the same diet and protocols? Wow that would be crazy good, but unfortunately that’s probably not realistic. Still, the vaccine study is as close as we’ve gotten to any kind of way to eradicate this disease and I’m totally confident the scientists will come up with something to do it. Stay tuned!
We love you guys soooo much and we are pawsibly the mostest grateful Tripawd (Thurston), Big brother (Raffie) and Hoomama in the whole world! Thanks to you guys I have somewhere at complain about Hoomama and she has someplace to brag about Meeeeee! Luff, Thurston
Back at ya Glo, Thurston & Raffie! You always make us smile and although we are sorry you had to join us, we are so hoppy you’re here! Hoppy Pawlidays!
I will always be thankful I found this amazing place, with the most amazing people ever! I would not be the person I am today if not for the lifeline Tripawds threw me when I was drowning 5 years ago. I am truly blessed to have you in my life.
Paula and Warrior Angel Nitro (and the Terrorist Trio)
Paula, you bring a sense of calm and reassurance to members here like nopawdy else. You are so much stronger than you give yourself credit for, and we are furever grateful to call you our friend. Hugs coming at ya!
Lovelu sentiments snd sich grear ohotos. Always remember though, the ripple of waves of love and pawsitivty start with you two. And those ripples have no ending.
Thank YOU
With love
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Sally, thank you. But honestly, we just put those waves out there. It’s amazing people like you who spread the magic among this community, over and over again. We love you my friend!
Wishing safe travels and a Happy Thanksgiving to your pack!!
Same to you Jackie! Hope your pawliday season is off to a great start!
Yeah! I have my amazon smiles account set up to support Tripawds! Can anyone help with the boots? Do any of them work for dogs with dewclaws?
Thank you so much! As for the boots, check out our reply, here.
My dog was born with hemimelia in his right forelimb, he just turned 2 years old last week. When I adopted Chance he was only 6 months old and one of my concerns was the long-term affect it may take on the rest of his body. I’ve tried to research and learn how to best help him and prevent issues but there is not much information available about dogs that were born as a tripod. He has already had surgery for elbow dysplasia in his left leg and we are hoping a prosthetic will help take the load off of that leg.
I would love to see a lifetime study done on Tripawds, there definitely needs to be more data available for professionals to use when giving advice and paw parents to learn from. By the way, we live in Colorado and would be very interested if CSU decides to move forward on this!
Thanks for the comment and best wishes for Chance! You will find numerous blog posts and forum topics from members sharing stories about their pups living entire lives as Tripawds. Search and post in the forums for plenty of feedback from others, or search all blogs here. Or, feel free to call the toll-free Helpline anytime. Start here for help finding the many Tripawds resources and assistance programs.
oh i will have to tune in 🙂 for the amounts lol
Heee heee! We promise it’ll be worth the effort!
When my dog became a tripod I did a lot of research on the internet and didn’t find a lot about long term studies of three legged dogs. Just recently I thought about a tripod study and was hoping someone would start doing one. When older dogs become a tripod it is certainly different to a puppy. Mine was just 12 weeks old when she had her accident. She would have been a great study pup. Her body was still growing. Her leg got amputated in May this year (accident happened in February the year before). So far she’s doing very well on her three legs but she’s only 2. I am very concerned about arthritis later in life but I am working with a great vet and a physiotherapist to ensure as much prevention as possible. However, she’s a dog and loves to run…If there is ever a study coming up I am more than happy to contribute. The only problem is, we live in Australia.
Hi Andrea,
Thanks for sharing your dog’s experience. Your pup is so lucky to have you, what a great job you are doing to keep her strong and healthy.
We have a lifetime study on our radar and now all we need is the $ to kick it off. We will keep everyone posted.
P.S. Being in Australia isn’t a problem, it’s pawesome 🙂 We are jealous!
I loved this interview, thank you very much for sharing. I recently nominated my dog to participate in the Dog Aging Project study and I’m waiting to see if he was accepted. There definitely seems to be a lot of work that goes into these studies, but I really hope that they do a lifetime study on tripawds someday. There’s so much we could learn.
You are so welcome! Thanks for listening and for enrolling your pup in the DAP project! We’ve heard great things about it. All of us will keep our paws & fingers crossed that your pup gets enrolled. Let us know when you hear back.
Hi Joel & Ross,
Wondering if you might be willing to connect/chat with me as we are battling osteosarcoma with our 6.5 year old Dane, Winnie. She underwent CyberKnife in September at Vet Cancer Group in Culver City (LA). Doing really well but has two fractures so we are considering amputation or limb-sparing and trying to gather as much info and testimonials/real stories as we can. Would love to speak with you if you’re open to it. Our perfect girl is a rescue from Indian Dane in San Marcos
Hi Kinzie. Joel and Ross are always open to a conversation. I will ask for their approval to connect you with them. Stay tuned and meanwhile please join our Discussion Forums Size and Age Matters topic for more support from parents of giant breed Tripawds. Give Winnie a smooch from us!
O you beautiful big boy! O you beautiful brave mom! How lucky you both are to have each other. Doctors have their place – diagnosis, treatment, meds, surgery – but unfortunately for us and for our animal companions, what is in short supply in the medical profession is HOPE. Hope is the glue that keeps us together in these hardest of times! I urge all families tosearch for doctors that offer you hope. Head right back out that door if they tell you “nothing can be done”. Congratulations, Caroline and Gabriel, you kept your hopeful hearts!
I have recently adopted a 3 legged cat. Peeing on the rug. Sometimes litter box. Have another inside cat. Does he need his own? Missing RF leg.
Please post in the Three Legged Cats Forum for much more feedback, where other tri-kitty members are more likely to see your question.
We are 9 days post-surgery. My annie is a Malinois. Pre surgery she had very high energy and high prey drive. She is on tramadol and seems to be doing okay with the pain as far as I know but has absolutely no energy. Difficult to get her up to go to the bathroom. Is not interested much an eating. And does not lift her head when we come into the room or wag her tail much. Not sure if that is too much to expect so soon. Either way this is extremely difficult to watch and I continue to second-guess myself with did I do the right thing? Please share any advice you may have and if this is normal? I know she is only 9 days post-op but her chemo is set to start next week and I’m concerned about putting her through even more trauma. She had cancer in her front left leg. Her incision looks great and is healing well. Any advice is appreciated.
Most members see vast improvement in their pups once off the pain meds. Annie may surprise you before you know it…until then, confinement and moderated activity are a must for a speedy recovery! Consult your vet with serious concerns, and check out the many Tripawds News posts about what to expect during these early days. Post in the forums for much more feedback from others!
Just checked out the CoFund MyPet link and saw this link on their page. Unbelievable heroism and love❤
https://mobile.twitter.com/cofundmypet/status/1189719881484263424
Matt Martin is a SAINT!! Another human Soul living in sync with his mission.
A well thought out brilliant way to help our beloved animals.
Thanks for bringing this to ur attention and a standing ovation to Matt Martin and CoFundMyPet And love the Chi modeling the teeshirt!
Gratefully
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
We agree too, Sally. It’s such a creative way to help people and pets, we couldn’t help but share his work here.
Hey Sally, I have no idea how I missed your comment until now, but THANK YOU!!!
We love what we do and hope to continue to grow the thousands of pet parents we’ve already helped in our first 6 months. We just don’t want to think about a few hundred dollars being the difference for an otherwise treatable pet not having more time with their family.
Matt
p.s. Carlos is still “learning to love” his CoFund My Pet t-shirt!
Just wanted to add, that some of the organizations listed do not currently have funds. After visting their site, they will have funds after more donations are received, so I did leave them on spreadsheet.
Thank you Jerry. But mostly all I did was take the information that was posted on this site and transfer to a spreadsheet, and I did find some additional ones along the way.
I’ve, just been so touched ( and soooo unxeserving!) by what Jim and Rene put together❤. And to see those photos of my sweet pups…an extra bonus.
I consider it to be such an incredible privilege to be a part of this loving and supportive community. You all contribute in so many ways to reach out and help others…..such true selfless role models for us all❤
Paula, thank YOU my dear friend fot being YOU!! Talk about compassionate…look in the nirror!! Always giving to all of us on so many levels!!❤
Repairman. (aka master of lawnmower repairs on 20 yr old lawnmower and more!!) Thank you Mark! Very kind of you❤❤
Rene
Love to all
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Oh my gosh Sally you TOTALLY deserve the praise. You are a DEAR to this community and do so much for others. We love you to pieces and are grateful to have you in the family.
Wow! Do a video next time!! People will fall in love with Sally and her animal world. She is such a blessing to call a friend. from: Sally’s repair man
Aww thanks for listening! She IS great isn’t she? Would loooooove to do a video call with Sally but first we have to figure out that low-bandwidth Interwebs problem on her property. Got Internet? 😉
What a great interview! I love listening to Sally talk, she has so much insight and wisdom, and endless compassion. I’m honored to call Sally a friend and so blessed to have met her in person. Thank you for sharing her with everyone!
Paula and Warrior Angel Nitro
We totally feel the same way Paula, that woman is a gift!
I don’t know if anyone still monitors this site. Its October 2019. But I just wanted to say thanks. There is not a lot of information about wound aftercare for amputation.
I had two dogs. A female GSD who recently passed in April due to complications from degenerative poly neuropathy, two failed surgeries, and an aggressive strain of MRS-P.
Now our other GSD-mix was just diagnosed with osteosarcoma and in the same week we were told we had to amputate his rear right leg.
It’s been pretty trying, but he’s been healing well. And we didn’t know what to expect after the awful experience we had with our first dog.
I just wanted to add my little crumbs of info in case it helps anyone else: my dog is almost 80lbs and has osteoarthritis and a partial tear CCL in his remaining hood leg. The vets told is he was perfectly fine and still a candidate for his amputation. And he has been. 7 days post-OP and he hops around just fine. We would wake up in the mornings to him trembling or shivering, panting and drooling. Turns out it was about the time when his pain meds would wear off, once we gave them to him, 30min later he’s calm and happy again. He also came home from surgery with a droopy watery red lazy eye. But just some eye drops and a few days later he was fine. They often get dry eyes or dust or some small thing in their eyes during the hospital stay that can irritate.
And the last thing I will add is the best thing I bought was a lambs wool sling that I could quickly throw around him when he stands to help him learn to walk again. Brought it to the hospital to bring him home with it and even the vets loved it.
Thanks so much for sharing your experience Elizabeth, it is very helpful. I’m just sorry you had to go through that but glad your dog is doing well. Please consider joining our Discussion Forums where you will find a lot of great people ready to discuss life on three legs and learn from each other’s experiences. Hope to see you there!
Belle is such a beautiful Soul and has an truly inspiring story to tell!
Team Belle stayed focused on solutions with a pawsitive oitcome snd brought about astounding results!
Thanks for sharing the story of Belle and her devoted family and medical team. So uplifiting!
Hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
I have 2 tripawd dogs, both rear leg amputees. One is 2 years, Shepherd mix small female 45 lb, the other lab mix 7 years 75lb.
My lab mix is experiencing difficulty in walking, going up stairs, and getting up after sitting. I have tried rimadyl, and the “g” drug, neither seem to get much relief and make his mood strange. Have also tried glucosemine and recently CBC I his food.
Seems like soreness in his back and groin, when I massage him
Where to go from here. Laser?, massage? When I exercise him, he cannot get up but drags his rear….so I don’t
He loves his life, too young to die, and I have another dog. Owing up and want her to have a long life
As we face winter and colder weather it just gets much harder for him to move go upstairs and be active.
Any suggestions you might have please let me know I live in Parker Colorado
the other 7 years
Please consult with a certified canine rehab therapist for proper evaluation, treatment recommendations and the best exercise program designed specifically for your pup. (Walks do not build strength, only stamina.) Visit a CCRT or CCRP and the Tripawds Foundation can even pay for your first visit!
Hi! Don’t forget Bandit’s BandAid! They help all dog breeds in emergency situations. I did a fundraiser for Charles’s one year ampuversary and we raised almost $250 for Bandit’s BandAid! Great folks over there!
THANK YOU! We didn’t know about this org and are adding them to the list.
I am so excited to get the book! Cannot wait to read it I already pre-ordered the Kindle version this morning as soon as I found out it was available.
Congratulations Rene and Jim, this is such wonderful news, I know Jerry is smiling from above
Happy Birthday Angel Jerry, thank you for sharing your most awesome pawrents with us. You have been the inspiration of a lifetime
Many hugs and lots of love,
Jackie and Huckleberry
We are facing something similar with our 5 year old dog Sadie. She started limping one day and several days later I literally thought he leg was broken from the way she was knuckling over. Her xrays came back fine, no break or fracture. We saw a neurologist who said she suspected a nerve sheath tumor. We were referred to the University of Georgia Veterinary Teaching Hospital for a complete neurological work up. Although her MRI “lit up” they were not able to differentiate between inflammation and a tumor. They did a nerve biopsy which was inconclusive as well and an infectious work up, which was negative . Sadie came home after a week at UGA on antibiotics, steroids and gabapentin for nerve pain. This all started at the beginning of August and had only progressed in spite of all our efforts. She is still unable to use her leg and it’s just wasting away. We return for our next visit at UGA Tuesday to determine our next step. They will repeat the MRI to see if the area that lit up has increased in size, if so they feel
it is most likely cancer, if not, it’s a brachial plexus injury. They said she will never regain full function of her leg, if she even regains any function at all. We are devastated! Sadie was such a happy dog, full of life and now she seems sad, frustrated and depressed. She has basically been at Tripawd since this happened. Will her love of life return if her leg is amputated?
We are so sorry to hear about Sadie. What a tough time for all of you! It’s very difficult having an uncertain diagnosis but rest assured you are working with a GREAT team that will help your girl get her sparkle back. Do keep in mind that what we humans perceive as “depression” in dogs is more likely a response to the pain they are in, and once the pain is gone, they are back to their old selves. We see it again and again. Please do visit our Discussion Forums to share her story and talk to other people for much more help. See you there!
Oh wow thank you Dawn! I thought I had checked them all. Yes if you would like to send me a list of the links and updates that would be GREAT! Email me when you have a chance.
I’m sending you an email. I have a feeling an outdated version of the spreadsheet was posted and a better one is somewhere–much outdated info and typos here.
I love the team effort! Thank you Dawn, I made the changes and all info is current. You’re a rock star!
This is wonderful, and so important but some links need to be checked for viability. The first in “Funds Pet Owners…” should be “Angels”, I believe, but I can’t locate a program there any longer. Banfield also leads to nowhere. We went through this list, or one similar 2 years ago and found some programs listed no longer existed, and came up otherwise empty because of income, disease, location or other restrictions. I am happy to click through links and provide updates as they are found.
Congratulations on getting this long-time-coming, well deserved and much-needed story out to the world! It will be a benefit to many and I wish you all the success with it.
We never could have done such a great job without all your good help. Thanks again!
A BLOCKBUSTER ON SO MANY LEVELS!! THIS IS SOOOO EXCITING!! CANNOT WAIT FOR THE RELEASE!!!
And a blog site too?
Jerry is indeed with you, with all of us! And without Jerry, there would be no “us”❤❤❤❤❤
Gonna go get in line. And I hope you get this vlog post up in permanent form on the blog space and not rotate it out. Make sense?
Love and light
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
You’re the best cheerleader Sally! Thank you for being so excited about it. Oh yes you’ll be hearing a lot more in the coming weeks and afterward. Stay tuned.
How do I find a rehab therapist for my tripawd. I live in Palm Springs, CA
Use the directories listed here on the Resources page to find certified therapists near you.
Hi, my dog was diagnosed with bone cancer 1 month ago she is on pain meds .. would like to know after amputation how much longer did your dog live ? and would you do it again?
Jerry loved life on three legs for 2 years, without any IV chemotherapy. You will find many more stories from others in the blogs and forums where some dogs survived much longer. Every dog is different. For the best feedback from others please post in the forums or start here for help finding the many Tripawds resources!
I have a 9 month old female German shepherd with her left shoulder and leg amputated due to a birth defect. I’d very much like to have something fitted for her that could possibly work long-term she’s just a puppy & soon to be an adult. I want her to have a very functioning quality of life long-term. She is an amazing dog. Please help us. 🙂
Tess, please consider taking advantage of our Tripawds Foundation Rehabilitation Therapy Reimbursement Program. A rehab expert can explain what you can do to help keep your GSD strong and healthy for life. As of now we know of no prosthetic that can work when the entire leg is removed. Please reach out to our Discussion Forums to talk about this further.
My dog is on day 7 from surgery. She’s almost 10 it is the front leg. She’s a healthy whippet that had the removal due to cancer . She is still very lethargic, seems depressed, only will walk to relive herself. She son gabapentin, medacam, and Tylenol 3. She is now done the gabapentin as of tonight, but still seems painful.
Is this common
Thx
There are many ways to identify and treat pain symptoms many people overlook. Being only about halfway through the recovery process, what you describe for your pup does sound pretty common. Confinement and moderated activity are pertinent now. She should only be having short leashed potty time right now anyway, until completely healed. Please consult your vet with serious concerns and start here for help finding the many Tripawds resources.
Nina,
I have no other way to get in touch with you apparently so I am hoping you come back here occasionally and find this.
I have wanted to thank you for your very kind words in my blog. I am no better today -going on two years- but your words made me feel like we’re two peas in a pod. Thank you so much for your kindness and for sharing. I will remember you and Connor forever.
Biggest hugs
Tina
without Manni
Hi, my cat had his front leg amputated 2 years ago and now i’m noticing that the bone where his leg used to be is ‘more present’, in the sense that when I pick him up i’m feeling it more than I used to. I don’t know whether it’s just my imagination or maybe he lost a bit of weight (although he doesn’t seem like he lost weight as he’s quite chubby).
Has anyone ever had this problem?
Thanks
Hi Bernardine! It sounds like the tissues over the partial amputation your cat received may have wasted away and the bony area is now more obvious. See our article “Partial versus full leg amputation” for examples. I would talk to a good surgeon about this if it seems to be bothering your cat. Also, please help your cat lose those extra pounds, as a Tripawd needs to be slimmer than usual to make mobility easier on their joints.
Nocita was extremely helpful. Those 72 hours of pain relief Moose got was very helpful to get him home and settled and for us to adjust to our new reality. Knowing it only lasted 72 hours also gave us the opportunity to evaluate changes when he did start having pain.
I’m so happy to hear that it helped. And yeah that is a good point about knowing exactly how long it will last. Great job! We hope Moose is doing well.
Whoo Hooo Dr. Downing! I LOVE HER! Only wearing three legs or 2 legs;)
Yes, they adapt and are happy to move along differently.
Wow, we need more Dr. Downings in this world.
I look furward to reading more!
Jerry, what is the best way to get in contact with Dr. Kramer? I want to ask her about borrowing (front) wheels for my Sophie post-op. She’ll only need them for a few weeks until her shoulder heals.
Consider checking Dr Kramer’s website, at the link in the post above!
How is it I’m just now seeing this? One would think I’d been busy trying to build a house or keep a dog from eating the neighbors. So, so lovely to see everyone and of course I was crying and grinning throughout.
Highly recommend IRL gatherings!
Hugs!
Teri
Karen was amazing helping the whole family through an extremely traumatic time. All the way over here in Australia we found a truly wonderful, caring person.
A wonderful well deserved way to pay tribute to an INVALUABLE , LOYAL, COMPASSIONATE, KNOWLEDGEABLE long term member! She’s always in the front line willing to help others. I know I’ve been the recipient of her generosity of spirit many times, starting with my Hapoy Hannah, and carrying on through Frankie and Merry Myrtle..
I refer to Stubborn Pug Maggie too many times to count when I want to offer inspiration and hope. to others. I always encourage mothers to read about her journey. For one thing, you will always get a chuckle as you get to know Pug Maggie and all the ways she earned the name “stubborn”. Reading about Rani and Obie, and of course Elly…….enlightens is on so many levels!!
I haven’t had a chance to listen to the Radio Podcast yet ( it sure if tablets can do that), but Ioooooved watching Elly do her nosework! She nailed it! I love how she kept double checking and kept showing Karen where the prize was
Thank you Pug Magfie, for bringing us Karen. So much about what is good about this site is because Karen is such a major component of it
Love and light❤
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
What a great interview! Loved hearing the questions and the answers Karen gave. Was also good to put a “voice” to the name. Can’t wait for more episodes of this
This is awesome. Thanks for sharing Karen. 🙂
Any info about the best vet for Harry would be greatly appreciated.
Sorry to hear about Harry, and we are glad to hear you are getting him help. Please read on to find out why we recommend searching for an AAHA-accredited clinic, of which there are many in your area. Good luck and let us know how it goes in our Tripawd Cat Discussion Forums.
Out kitten, Harry, is about 9 weeks old and was born with a “dead” right-rear paw. His leg was partially amputated but the “stub” is bleeding (lots of spots on bed ,blankets, etc.).
We need to find the best vet in Orlando area, right away, to examine our kitty & maybe do more surgery.
My dog is just hours post op. They have given me gabapentin, carprofen, buprenorphine, tramadol, and cephalexan. Sorry if the spelling is wrong. It’s midnight and I’m exhausted. I’m a relative of the vet and I feel like they’re doing everything possible to keep her comfortable, 110lb Rotti, but I kind of feel it’s overkill. Thoughts?
Hi Bridget. Sorry for the diagnosis. No, this is not overkill and it sounds like your vet is giving some good pain management. Try to put yourself in your dog’s paws: amputation is a major surgery that needs major pain management for at least 10 days or so. Work with your vet if you feel it is not enough or too much and join us in the Forums for faster help from the community.
I’ve created an account! So happy to have found such a supportive community. Roxy is 9, 110lb Rottweiler, that was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in her front right leg. Yesterday, was her amputation. She’s been kept pretty comfortable with the arsenal of meds. My next question is when does she go to the bathroom? How do I help her? It’s very overwhelming and I feel pretty helpless.
Welcome. As Jerry’s vet told us…when they need to go, they’ll go! Please search the forums for plenty of feedback from others about any specific concerns. Or, search all blogs here. And be sure to start here for help finding the many Tripawds Resources.
My Teddy a Male Dog never had any symptoms of cancer but a lump not a reddish one never had any pain when he move around after taking a x Ray Doctor said he suspect it as a bone cancer and to amputate which I did and the samples send for a histopathology Of bone tissue. My dog 100% healthy even now a Crocker spanioal 5 years old.
Do you think this is a Bone Cancer.
Sajith, we are glad your dog is doing well. What did the histiopathy report say? Did it not determine that your dog has bone cancer?
Awww everyone, I’m thrilled you enjoyed the video and hope we captured the essence of your magical sisterhood. Thank you so much for doing the video for the community!
It’s so hard to put into one short video what Tripawds has done for us! Yes we met in the forums and the chat room first, then a few of us met in Chicago at PuppyUp. Then even more at the Epic Pawty in Virginia. Our friendship has just grown and grown and grown. We’ve been there for each other through the hard times and through the good times too. And each year we get together and we reminisce about our babies – it’s so good to have people we can talk to about them, those that remember our journey with us, and we can feel with, we can let the tears fall without being embarrassed, because they remember too, and they loved them too. It truly is like having a bunch of sisters!
And we spend a great deal of our time together talking about our Tripawd Hero’s – hours and hours worth. And we never get tired of listening to each other about different aspects of the journey. You’d think after 3 years of vacations together we’d run out of things to say about them, but we don’t. This keeps our heart dogs alive for us…I can’t put into words how important this is. Their lives mattered, the horrible journey was not for nothing – it all happened for a reason. WE FOUND EACH OTHER, WE FOUND FAMILY!
Paula and Warrior Angel Nitro
That is just PAWSOME!!!!! I smiled throughout that whole video.. even though I only know a few of you.. I certainly feel the awsesome friendship you have developed together!!!
Christine.. with Franklin and Maggie in hed heart!!
My tears are flowing right with you Michelle! Lump in my throat, warm fuzzies, tears, reconnected with our sister and great times through your “preeentation”…………GREAT JOB RENE!!! AO WELL DONE!!!
The thought you gave to incorporating the ohotos pf our Spirit Dogs was just beautiful! Every photo was PERFECT!!! Yes, they are the heroes that brought us all together. They were all gifts on loan to us for too short a time, yet they are the gifts that keep on giving and always live in through us, and through our friendships.❤❤❤
And the first hero of all, Jerry!!! He was…and continues to be….an eternal gift to all of us (with a little help from his hoomans and Wyatt)
Thank you Soul Sisters, thank you Spirit Angel Dogs, thank Jerry…..and the pawty continues on!!
BTW…all it takes is two for a pawty! Numbers don’t matter. Bonding with someone who “understands” the depth of love we have for our animals is the prize
With love and appreciation to all
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
You are right it doesn’t matter the numbers. Just a meet up with one other person and it can grow from there.
xoxoxo
And, next year will be year 4 of us getting together – in Wisconsin this time! Can’t wait to see my “family” again!
Paula and Warrior Angel Nitro
P.S. good job Rene of editing all our craziness
Brings back so many memories of a fabulous vacation with my sisters! They truly did get me through one of the most difficult times in my life. Everyone should be so lucky to meet their soul mates! Come on tripawd people…..plan a party and meet yours!
Paula and Warrior Angel Nitro
I love it. But not smiling crying (of course I am LOL). I miss my gals and family. This is the greatest family on earth. Everyone of these ladies I would trust with my heart and soul. We have been through some of the roughest times together. But we also have shared some of the greatest together as well. When I said family I truly mean it.
The Tripawds party in VA (the greatest epic party) was the first real vacation I had in years way before Sassy got cancer. I met some of the greatest people. What you didn’t see was we were missing a few ( Clare, Alison, Amy and Glenn, Donna’s husband, was at the first party.)
All of us ladies have a great time when we are together. We bonded, when we get together each year its like we just left off where we were before.
xoxoxo
Michelle & Angels Sassy & Bosch
Glad you liked it Jackie! Watching the video for the first time just put the biggest smile on my face too Talk about special friends!
Great job ladies!! I am just grinning from ear to ear here seeing all of you! Love the t -shirts
Thank you Rene for putting that together, it is so special to see the bonds that are made here.
Hugs to all of you, just made my morning
Jackie and Huckleberry
First of all, thank you SO much for the website and all the effort going into it.
I just arrived here today, after a canine cancer diagnosis, and amputation was suggested for our wonderful 10 year old border collie. I entered “tripod dogs” into Google — your landing page was the fourth hit. Another page on this site was the fifth hit. So something is right. By rights, pages from this site should have been #1 through 1000….
Hi Dennis, welcome. We are so sorry to hear about your pup, and hope you will join us in the Forums for help from the community. Thanks for your kind words about our community, we are trying hard to increase our ranking.
Yesterday my 8 yr old Ridgeback mix was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in her front leg and unfortunately it showed up on chest x-rays also. I am waiting on the biopsy results to be certain. The vet mentioned amputation but I can’t seem to find any information on dogs where the cancer has spread and whether amputation is even a possibility. I will talk to the vet in the next few days when the results are back but was wondering if anyone had any input.
Hi Debzab. I’m sorry about the diagnosis. We do have some information you are looking for. Please see: https://tripawds.com/2012/08/28/senior-dog-zeus-living-large-against-all-odds/ and also https://tripawds.com/forums/treatment-and-recovery/is-the-remedy-for-cancer-worth-the-cure-another-great-article-by-dr-intile/ and finally a member experience: https://tripawds.com/forums/presentation-and-diagnosis/should-amputation-be-done-if-mets-found-in-lungs/. Please consider posting in the Forums so more people can provide input. See you there!
Hi, I absolutely loved this story about beautiful Emerson. Being from Sydney, it is very reassuring.
Our boy has recently been diagnosed with Osteosarcoma and we are devastated.
My partner has never seen a three legged dog and very nervous about it. He hasn’t slept in days. I try and show him these inspiring stories but I think he needs to see it with his own eyes to believe how great dogs do adapt.
Thank you so much
Aww I’m so glad you read his story Leona. There are mannnnny more so please tell your partner to come on over and we will try to help him feel better about the decision. Best wishes to you and your boy.
Is there a prescription drug you would recommend that I inquire about in lieu of Tramadol? My dog just had an amputation yesterday and I am trying my best to be on top of the latest and greatest and most effective way to treat her pain.
Hi Denise, keep in mind that when used as part of a multi-modal pain relief approach, it is believed that Tramadol is effective. When used alone, not so much according to the recent study. If your dog doesn’t tolerate Tramadol, you can always ask your vet about adding Amantadine into the mix, which addresses another pain pathway effectively when used with Gabapentin and a NSAID. Hope this helps.
Our amazing pup, Desmond (or Desi to most), is a year and a half old Golden Retriever. He was diagnosed with an osteosarcoma in his left front leg about a month ago. He had been limping since the middle of February, but the vet kept telling us it was just a shoulder strain, until we finally pushed for an x_ray. After a very painful bone biopsy & having to watch our poor boy suffer in immense pain for two weeks, we got the call. It was cancer. The decision was so easy. Taking his leg meant no more pain, so that is what we did. The vet’s office took x-rays and bloodwork one week before surgery & both were clear. Of course, we were told the osteosarcoma could have spread microscopically, but nothing could be seen by the naked eye. We are now five weeks post surgery & Desi is doing AWESOME! He had a few complications with the incision (the vet had to go back in to remove some necrotic tissue & there was some infection present), but as of today, our sweet, playful, & loving boy has been returned to us. He also started his chemo pill today, so we are going to see how that goes. The oncologist said that his osteosarcoma was caught very early & now we are starting with a clean slate. I pray every single day (sometimes more than that) that the lung mets hold off for as long as possible. I worry about every sound Desi makes when he is breathing. I just worry about everything. We are thinking of starting him on CBD oil as well to add in a holistic approach to the chemo pill. We have already put over $6,000 with the biopsy & the amputation surgery, so we are not able to do the full chemo regimen, so I think adding in CBD oil can only help. All this being said, we are enjoying every single moment with our fur baby, b/c we never know when the last one will come.
Thanks for sharing Desi’s story. You are an amazing Tripawd parent! We wish you lots of great, hoppy time together on three. Let us know if we can help at all!
My 12 year old Terrier mix developed a huge lump on his shoulder, seemingly overnight. X-rays showed moth eaten bone, typical of bone cancers but consults with experts were inconclusive. Nevertheless, we started Butters on Zolendronate and after the second infusion the lump opened up and drained blood and who knows what else. Further x-rays seemed to suggest that bone was being rebuilt. The “wound” healed and it was almost like he had never had the lump. Unfortunately, Butters had to be put to sleep a few months later due to liver failure. I truly believe the bisphosphonate was a miracle treatment.
Holly thank you sooo much for your feedback on this treatment. I’m sorry to hear about Butters’ getting his wings, but so glad that he had some quality time with you. What a great mom you were to him. xoxo
How do I apply? My sweet MJ had cancer 3 years ago. We had to amputate her leg to stop the cancer. She jumped off the table after surgery and immediately did just fine! She’s now 14 and in the last few days her other back leg is giving her serious pain and I can hear her help when her hips move. She is still eating and going potty and moving, just in pain. It breaks my heart! She’s a rescue and her 14 year old and 6 year old sister rescue come running when she winces! We need help!
Nikki, please get MJ to a canine pain management / animal rehabilitation (physio) therapist asap. Wheels are not the answer right now, at least until she is evaluated. If you are in Canada or the U.S. Tripawds Foundation may reimburse for your first rehab visit. Also please post in our Size and Age Matters forum for feedback from members. See you there.
OMG! To see this post was just amazing. Thinking of all you guys do for us Tripawds and how much we love you and spirit Jerry!
Love from Thurston, Raffie and Hoomom, Gloria
Thank you! We’ve come a long way indeed…
What a beautiful story! Reminds me so much of our Rottie, Reggie. In 2017 he was 5 years 3 months old when diagnosed. Same thing, osteosarcoma in his back left leg. Such a hard decision isn’t it to amputate. But as I can see you also learned they get along just fine, the horrible pain is gone & they know how to live life to it’s fullest. We’ve learned so much from him as I’m sure you did with your beautiful Major. Thanks for sharing his story.
Thanks for the comment! Please consider sharing your story. There are many ways to pay tribute and help inspire others.
Thanks for this quick blurb on biphosphonates! It has been a great option for our girl!
Thanks for reading! Please consider sharing your story.
Is gabapentin the drug it works best with? And I have been giving it to my dog per vet’s instructions However she doesn’t seem to be in terrible pain should I cut back on it?
According to veterinarians we have talked to, Gabapentin and Tramadol may work synergistically with one another. Before assuming your dog is not in pain, please review these pain signals in dogs and talk to your vet about how and when to reduce her medications. Keep us posted in the Forums.
I believe that Bisphosphonates are a very useful alternative however our oncologist back then stated that they only seem to work on tubular bones such as in the limbs. It would be interesting to know what Dr. Kelly thinks about that.
Thanks
tina
Thank you for posing a great question, Tina! I’ll be sure to ask and report back here.
Whohoo..yay for more attention to this treatment.
And thanks for mentioning my Neka..u guys made me smile ear to ear..I mean literally smile!!…I’m also open to any questions anyone has:)
I am soooo glad you saw it Steph! If it wasn’t for you and beautiful Neka this treatment wouldn’t have been on our radar. Thanks to you, we finally got to dive into this topic and hopefully others will investigate it if their vets didn’t present it as a choice. You are such a great pet parent, advocate and friend to the Tripawds community. Thank you so much.
Can’t believe I missed this, will Stacy be returning in the future?
There are no plans to do another animal communication episode for the foreseeable future. Subscribe to Tripawd Talk Radio to be notified of all new episodes.
I’ve been please with Pets Best. I paid $1000 a year with a 10% copay and $200 yearly deductible. They don’t cover hyperbaric chamber or O-Zone therapy and I’m fine with that. Usually they wire payment into my checking account within five days of the claim. premium rises as pet ages at renewal
Good to know Luke. Our premium with them doubled for Wyatt when he turned 9. I think that their rates also depend on the breed. Glad you are happy with them!
My understanding is the goal is to use immune therapy and do limb spare not amputation?
For this one they are amputating to take the dog’s tumor in order to create the vaccine. I don’t believe they are turning to limb spare first.
I cannot tell you how wonderful it was to see Otis’ picture when I opened up the newsletter this morning! For those Tripawd parents going through this, I should also add that as Otis grew more stable, there were still times, generally on walks, when I used my leg to help him balance so that he could do what needed to be done. I was also very careful around trees – the mounding of mulch around trees can be difficult for a Tripawd male if you do not approach the tree from the right angle and let him lean against your leg if needed. (Yes, I know we should have found better trees, but it is hard to argue with a dog and a favorite tree).
What a beautiful gift from you al! This is one of the most informative cases I have seen. It was majorly impactful and I am so grateful Spree made such a contribution with her life. Every tripawd owner (and not the case here but also owners of unfit pets at unhealthy weights) should see what osteoarthritis does to these poor pups. I’ve never seen this …and all most owners see are the examples of healthy plastic bones in our vets offices. A big thank you to Spree and her mom. Such. Valuable. Knowledge. Xoxo. My heart is with you.
God Bless your heart Spree. Journey isn’t easy but we all need this inspiration. I too have a tripawd and she has been diagnosed with Hip Dyspepsia and arthritis.
Therapy and diet are a must but along with that, the love of their humans is the best medicine of all…
Thanks for sharing.
Kathy and my GSD Aksel_Rose
I did’t even think about raised feeders , Rocky seems to have no trouble but I’m all for making things even easier for him. So glad I checked this recovery shopping list out and I’ll be purchasing those asap.
Good job! Thanks for the feedback, so glad it helped. Yes, raised feeders are great for three and four legged dogs. Imagine trying to bend over and eat your food from a bowl on the ground, then do it with one leg. Rocky’s a lucky dawg to have you for a mama.
Great information. It doesn’t work for me either but must help someone. Unfortunately our pets can’t tell us how they are feeling. Thanks for this article.
You are so welcome. And you’re right, it is such a test of our sensitivity to animals’ behavior when trying to decipher their pain. I hope you find a medication that does help you feel better.
Hi, does any one know of someone whose dog was diagnosed with melanoma in the mouth and used the beads? My 8yr old chihuahua has a tumor on the side of his mouth. I went to an oncologist who suggested a vaccine but it’s duper expensive and not a guarantee that he will be ok after. I spoke to another vet who suggested the beads, I’m just looking for feed back, i feel so lost and helpless.
This post (and treatment) is rather old. You might consider looking into Electrochemotherapy…we have new video interviews and articles coming soon.
Thank you so much for posting part 1 and part 2. I’m currently sitting in my living room while our greyhound is in her crate next to me – I collected her 12 hours ago following a front limb amputation for osteosarcoma. It has been the most harrowing thing I think I’ve ever done, given how dopey she was, yet how much she wants to stand up and move aboit. However, we just got back inside after a successful 4am hobble outside (with a sling to assist) to toilet. I think I can see the light. Nice to know I’m not alone in this!
Welcome to the club nopawdy ever wants to join, and best wishes for a speedy recovery! Start here for help finding the many Tripawds resources. As a Greyhound lover, you should especially enjoy the Be More Dog podcast from our keynote at the 2012 Greyhounds Rock canine cancer conference.
My dog has just been diagnosed with Osteosarcoma (back leg). The leg will be amputated the day after tomorrow and he will then begin chemotherapy. The vet will x-ray his chest first (I am so hoping it has not already made it’s way there). I’m so glad I have found this blog because now I know I’m not alone. What I can’t come to terms with are the statistics and the inevitably bad prognosis. My heart goes out to those who have lost their special babies to this hideous disease. I will take on board the “be more dog” mantra – thank you for this forum.
Sssshhhhh…your dog knows nothing about statistics! that’s why it is so important to Be More Dog. If you have not yet done so, listen to the Be More Dog Podcast for details. And start here for help finding the many other Tripawds resources and assistance programs.
3 weeks ago my 9 year old Rottie was diagnosed with bone cancer. I’m devastated. The vet said it has already spread throughout his body because of the weight loss. He has his good days and he has his not so good days. Whenever I touch him, he flinches. WHY? Is it painful for him when I touch him. Taking him to an oncologist tomorrow. I think I need an expert to tell me what his quality of life is at this moment. I don’t want him to suffer any longer, but I’m so depressed thinking about losing my boy. I have another furbaby… Max, he is a black lab. How is this going to affect him?
Hello Ida. I’m sorry to hear about your boy. Rest assured you are doing the best thing possible by visiting an oncologist. I hope you get hopeful news today. Please come back and visit us in our Discussion Forums so we can help you better OK?
I’m so sorry to hear this. We just learned that our 10 1/2 old English Mastiff has bone cacner – in her front leg. We are devastated and I’m just sick to my stomach trying to figure out what is the right path of treatment for her. Be strong for your furbaby. He is lucky to have you.
What are you sorry to hear!? Jerry loved life on three legs for two years, without chemotherapy, and this was back in 2007! Besides, it’s all about quality of life now, not quantity. Please listen to our Be More Dog podcast, to learn how to follow your pup’s lead on this journey. And sshhhhhh…she does not know she has cancer!
Ida I’m going through the same! Vet is saying she has suspicious Bristol femur cancer in her June leg she has been limping. I’m so lost and confused. Taking her to oncologist on Monday I don’t want to lose my baby girl but I don’t want her to suffer.
Karen, best wishes for your girl. Please start here for help finding the many Tripawds resources, post in the forums for more feedback from others, or call the toll-free Helpline anytime!
Healthy Paws paid for everything they said they would from my girl’s xrays, bone scan, amputation with 7 day hospital stay, chemotherapy, the osteosarcoma vaccine, and, sadly, for euthanasia. I am very grateful for Healthy Paws and have enrolled my new dogs with them, too. They have been a godsend for my past dogs over the years, too. Ultimately, they paid out over $20,000 in claims over a 25 month period. They allowed me to give her a very happy and very healthy 25 months. Worth every cent of the monthly premium.
Wow thank you for sharing your experience! You’re not the first person to say great things about Healthy Paws. I’m so hoppy it worked out for your pack!
We use Healthy Paws for our Tripawd, too. They covered the cost of her amputation and now they are covering her chemo. I chose a $250 deductible and a 90% reimbursement.
I’m so glad they are working out for you Simone! That’s great peace of mind.
Well to understate the problem this just sucks! We have made so many longtime friends because of tripawds.com and are so grateful to be part of this community. I try to post on FB links to the sight as much as possible. And always refer anyone who has a pet who is or will be becoming a TriPod. I will be ordering more brochure to give to vets office as well. I wish there was more we could do but we will continue to spread the word as much as possible.
Thank you for everything you do! You guys see PAWsome!!
Denna & TriPod
“Living life to the fullest……one hop at a time”
Wow and my spellcheck is awful apparently after I re-read this post
Oh gosh don’t you worry about spelling or typos Denna! Thank you for your supportive message and all that you do to help us spread the word. We WILL get through and over this temporary hurdle thanks to the love and concern from great members like you. 3-paws up to you and the pack!
Isnt this immunotherapy supposed to be used on Limb spare where the leg can be saved And the vaccine is made from the removed tumor?
Their trials focused on post amputation.
It would be great if it works without amputation.
Wouldn’t that be great! Well, it all starts with studies like this, which are very expensive, time-consuming, and complicated to administer.
I dont have tons of google experience . Wouldn’t buying google ads help?
Sure, if we had an unlimited advertising budget. Sadly this is not our reality. Thanks for the suggestion though!
What is the signs of cancer spreading to the lungs. I did have Daisy who died of lung cancer. She started acting lethargic and coughing. That was 15 years ago. They said there was nothing that could be done.
For now brownie’s chest xray came back clear, but was wondering if there are other signs to watch for?
The typical presentation is just as you experienced. And there are always things that can be done to keep a dog comfortable IF mets happen. We have an entire blog post about post-metastasis options you should check out. Also, you may want to check out how Otis presented with mets, many people chimed in on this topic in our forums.
Most importantly don’t forget to celebrate those clear x-rays! YEAY!
I thought it was kind of quiet in here… sheesh! What a terrible thing to happen. You would think with all the hits that the site has gotten over time would bring it up in popularity. I know speed is the issue here, but there are plenty of other slow sites (Verizon for example) that have awfully slow sites but they don’t appear to get blackballed for it.
I will continue to advocate for this wonderful group in any way that I can. I don’t Facebook but I do Instagram. I will make some posts advocating for the site as I have a lot of tripawds on my list 🙂
Hugs,
Jackie and Huck
Oh my gosh you are so right, Verizon’s site is awful! Thanks for your support Jackie, we are furever grateful!
I am saddened to hear about the issues that Google is giving this wonderful site. When I adopted Jake at my local animal shelter I knew absolutely nothing about caring for him as he was only two days out from his back left leg being amputated. I looked at many places to find information but kept coming back to Tripawds.com because the best information and dialogue was here. I will start beating the drum on FB as often as I can even though I’m rarely on FB anymore because of their policies. Jake is doing super well only one month out from his amputation and I feel comfortable having my new three legged critter in my life. This site, the blogs and forums have truly been a God send for both myself and Jake!! May my Lord and God continue to bless your gift to all of us three legged critter owners.
Gloria and Jake
Gloria it is good to hear from you, how wonderful that Jake is doing so well! Thanks for caring and helping us get the word out, it’s greatly appreciated. Keep us posted on how your sweet boy is doing!
Why don’t we build a really super duper speedy but bare bones website that’s really fast and pleases Google. Then we can refer or link to our wonderful website here that we have been using successfully for years! There HAS TO BE a way around this Google nonsense! As all Tripawds know, faster does NOT mean better! Thurston mantra!
Because it is the content that matters. We need all of our amazing resources to rank higher for the keywords they contain…and we’re working hard to make that hapen. 🙂
Not sure if anyone is still following this thread but our Max is going on 9 and will have his hind right leg amputated next week. Chemo and than the new Vaccine. The Vet we’re going to is charging $1,800.00 per treatment. It’s a lot but it sounds like it will work and will be worth every penny.
Best wishes for Max! Please feel free to share your story or seek support in the forums and blogs. Start here for help finding the many Tripawds resources and assistance programs.
Hello, is this vaccine available in Southern California? Our pup just underwent his amputation yesterday.
Please follow the links in this post above for complete details about this vaccine and its availability. This post is also nearly two years old. Search this blog for more current canine cancer vaccine studies, or post in the forums for much more support and feedback from others than you’ll receive via comments here.
This is really upsetting. It is unfortunate how the world has changed so much in this way. I had zero idea Google did this kind of thing and always figured the most relevant information came up when searching. I wish there was more I could do. You guys have been so helpful to me and I’d like to see you at the top of the world.
Thanks you Shubeanie. Yeah there are things that go on behind the scenes that affect lots of websites’ visibility, it’s an ongoing struggle to stay visible. Thank you for the kindness and reading our post. Spreading the word is the best way to help, we greatly appreciate it.
Thank you so much for posting about our beloved rescued dog Uran! I am his foster Mom and can say only good words abut him! He has super sweet personality!Not a barking type, housetrained, obedient, loves to be petted, friendly to anyone even strangers.
Sincerely,
Dire Straits Paws Rescue Team
You are so welcome Larisa, thanks for all the great work you do to help these doggies. We are happy to help get the word out.
Ugh. Sorry you are getting picked on by the Borg. I will keep beating the Tripawds drum at every opportunity!
Thanks TC! We know you already do and appreciate it greatly.
This sucks 🙁 I know you and Admin are working the best you can. I certainly hope the things your mentioned do not have to go away. They are important.
hugs
Michelle, Angels Sassy & Bosch.
Paw shucks Michelle, you work hard around here too to help others, this team effort WILL get us where we need to be on the Google monster. Thanks for all you do. xoxo
Hi from Nassau, Bahamas! Found you through a Google search while looking for ideas about how to help our Bruno ‘walk’ outside for bathroom breaks. Just home from the vet where he had his front right leg removed up to the shoulder. Bone cancer we only found out about last week. Still woozy and resting on his little bed. Had an EUREKA! moment when I saw the canvas shopping bag because I knew I had one from a a 1970s South FL shopping mall secured somewhere. Found it in the car trunk with the other shopping bags and it’s cut apart and ready to use. Awesome idea, thank-you 🙂
Aww Gina I’m glad we could help! Here’s to you and Bruno, we send all our love for a speedy recovery. Please keep us posted in our Forums, we would love to hear all about your boy.
Luke4275–why is it funny? My pup goes in tomorrow morning for his surgery and they said that’s likely what they’ll give him in addition to his carprofen and gabapentin that he’s already taking
Hi Bekka, I think he is referencing how Tramadol has made news recently about how it wasn’t as effective at managing pain as vets thought it once was. However, this information is based on a study for dogs with osteoarthritis, and they looked at Tramadol when given alone without other drugs. When it comes to amputation, so far vets are still prescribing it along with gabapentin and a NSAID (carprofen) because the drugs are supposed to work synergistically. If you have questions tomorrow be sure to ask your vet OK? And good luck! Let us know how things go, we are sending lots of pawsitivity your way!
Funny how tramadol is still listed as first choice of pain meds. I’ve never heard of the injection called nocita? Does anyone use this? I will investigate. Its sad when an amputated pet goes home with poor choice of pain meds
We used nocita for my dogs amputation. I feel it did work well. They inject it as they are amputating. They use it inside the nerves themselves. It wears off about about 3 days.
Thanks for the feedback on Nocita, Bearsmama, that’s so good to know!
Thank you for the interview as well. My oncologist was in agreement over a year ago that metronomic therapy didn’t do much. I know that when and if Simon gets lung mets, that I will look at radiation cyber knife or microwave ablation , and also consider high dose losartan with palladia. I wont consider surgery. .
Also heartbroken to read your reply. I remember I placed a call about this program and was told it cost $11,000. Of course my dog was not appropriate because he had no tumor to access. And I thought I read that linb spare was the goal of this. But doesn’t seem to be the case from the talk
My almost 11.5 year old Golden was born a tripawd and has proven that there is very little a tripawd can’t do. She participated in Obedience, Rally-O, Field, Tracking, Scenting, Agility, and also learned Flyball. She has had a breathing condition for over five years now and was just getting over a bout of pneumonia when bone cancer was discovered. It’s been 28 days since the ‘official’ discovery, but I had taken her in a few weeks earlier because she was lame in her hind leg … Our vets conclusion was it (the lameness) was to be expected because she was missing her front limb. This diagnosis didn’t sit well with me so I took her to a physiotherapist who gave use some exercises to work on … When she refused to even attempt to put weight on her back leg, I knew something else was wrong and made another veterinary appointment. It’s so frustrating that all the vets cared about was that they weren’t the ones to miss it. Because she is already missing a limb amputation isn’t seen as feasible and also the fact that the vet felt that it was an aggressive cancer based on the radiograph (although the lungs aren’t showing anything),. We were basically sent home with medication for 28 days and told that we would have to decide to let her go when the pain became too much. I’m sure like everyone else has experienced that initially being told you dog has cancer was a shock, but by the next morning we were researching figuring out how to beat this. The last few days have been the roughest … which is why I landed on this page … I have found so much information on how awful Bone Cancer is and all the statistics, but it’s difficult to find much on signs to look for as your best friend either beats the problem or progresses further. We have found the weather plays a huge role in pain levels, but recently there is fluid accumulating in her leg. The femur goes up and down in size … When it’s small we have hope the cancer cells are dying, but then there is a large mass again. It’s such a confusing thing to be working through with our girl. We hope to beat the ‘Big C’, but we also know there are many things going against us.
Sarah I am so sorry to hear that about your pup. I would recommend meeting with an oncologist, there are other options such as radiation therapy that can alleviate the pain and maybe even reduce the tumor, as well as new immunotherapies that can be tried. I hope you find something for her soon. Please keep in touch in our Forums.
Alias Program
My girl Sabrina (12 year old Rottie) was excepted in the trial program, we researched the program and it looked amazing. She had osteosarcoma on here rear leg. We signed up and schedule the amputation of her leg, very hard decision. The plan was to removed the leg and have the cell harvested then Elias would make the vacations and sent them back to my amazing vet IVO Phoenix. This was done and they contacted us to have the first one administered. We were very excited and later that day they again contacted us and said Elias contacted them and said that they did not have enough cells to create the 3 require vaccines. So we were no longer a part of the trial we were heart broken. The only reason we agreed to move forward with the amputation was to possibly extend her life by being in the program. My vet Dr Hershey being the amazing person she is was heart broken as well and offer the Chemo at no cost. There is nothing for sure in life I understand, my only comment regarding this is maybe they can improve the collection process in the future so that others will have the opportunity and success in their program. Alias program is so amazing and it provides owners to have their loved ones around longer, priceless! Great work keep advance technology!!
Patrick, thank you for sharing your experience with us, it’s so important for others to know about every possible angle of participation in a clinical trial. I’m sorry things didn’t work out. Your vet is truly an angel on earth for helping your girl fight cancer.
That picture is so totally heartbreaking… and it is the grim reality of what happens when people are not responsible for their pets and treat them like second class citizens.
I commend your attempt at responsible pawrenting… everybody that has ever chained a dog out should see what the outcome could be.. it could also be even worse.
Having prior animal control experience I have seen everything from that to dogs getting themselves wrapped so tight around something that they could not breathe and nearly died.. to a little Scottie that was chained on to his owners deck and fell off the side while his owners were not home. These are things I will never be able to un-see.
Wyatt, I am so glad your mom and dad found you!!!
((((((Hugs))))))
Jackie and Huckleberry
Jackie my heart aches for all that you went through in that role. You were an angel to those animals you tried to help.
We have wanted to share this message for a long time now, just to let people know what can happen. I’m so glad you posted so that you can reinforce the message. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Hugs & woofs back at ya from all of us but especially Wyatt!
My dog had a rear leg amputated 5.5 weeks ago. He has been on antibiotics since because he has bruising in the area still. After 4 weeks I noticed that the wound site was very firm. I asked the vet and they think that he might have a slight infection and that is why we still have him on antibiotics. In the last week I have noticed that the would site seems to be swelling more and it feels like there is fluid build up in the area. I found your site talking about seroma, is this something that only occurs right after surgery or is this something that can occur in my timeline of 4 or 5 weeks post surgery?
Hi Tim. We have seen seromas develop a few weeks later, but since an infection is involved with your dog I would definitely have your vet take a look at it and culture the fluid to be sure the antibiotics are working. Good luck and keep us posted in the Forums!
Hey, not sure if I am going to be able to comment or not, i got locked out from forgetting my password. My 3 and a half year old mastiff had his front left leg amputated due to osteosarcoma on wednesday, july 31st.
The first three days were a breeze, but pretty much as the nocita (local anesthetic injection) wore off, he has been having a really hard time.
He has been randomly screaming for minutes at a time. Top of the lung screams. I have read everything on her ei can find and we assume its phantom limb pain, but with his sutres still in it doesnt seem there is much we can do.
It was so bad on sunday night (4 nights post amp) that we took him to the ER, of course when we got him there, he didnt scream at all. They gave him a methadone injulection and then a couple hours later we got his drain out and they added aome opiates to his pain managment system. (He is also on gaba every 8 hours, trazadone every 8 hours, carprofen every 12 hours, and an antibiotic once every 24 hours.) His opiate is codiene and after anothwr call with them today and a video of him screaming they told us to move his dose from every 8 hours to every 6 hours.
Well were mid gaba and codiene, his carpeofen needs to reup in the next hour, and he just had his worse bout of screaming yet. At first it seemed like the codiene was helping but it seems to be getting worse again and were feeling super desperate, as watching him scream is about the worst thing ever. Any help would be appreciated.
Rayla, initial blocks are usually temporary. The fact that you can view the site and comment here, proves you have not been permanently blocked. You can use the Remember Password link on the log-in page, or contact us with your username (or registered email address) and we can reset your password for you.
Start here for help finding the many Tripawds Resources or call the toll-free Helpline anytime!
Thank you for this information. Still praying that we will not need it, tho. We didn’t realize Jerry had 17 months Tripawd before mets happened. We are almost to 10 months. Mom and I pray for Spirit Jerry when we say our gratitude prayers. Thank you for all you do for us Tripawds. Love THURSTON
Awwww Thurston and Gloria, you make our hearts so happy. And we pray that Thurston continues rockin’ and rollin’ on three for many, many more good times! We love you guys.
Thanks for the informative interview.
Curious why cats tend to do better and live longer than dogs woth bone tumors.
Seems like Metronomics is still “worth a try” under the parameters Dr Sequin discussed. Jerry certainly would agree based on the extended bonus time he got
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too
You are so welcome! I don’t have an answer to your question about cats, but assume it’s because they have nine lives? ;0 And yah we and Spirit Jerry agree metronomics is worth a try if it’s in someone’s ability to provide it for their animal.
Do you let your tripawd jump out of the car by himself? I always worry that it’s too much stress on the one remaining front leg by my three legged golden retriever wants no part of me helping him out.
No, we would never allow that, nor to jump up in, regardless of which leg is missing. Such high impact on single remaining limbs will cause damage over time, and can cause immediate injury. Use a harness to help your dog down. Use positive reinforcement and whatever training methods which work for your dog.
Thanks so much for sharing your story. We are about to go through a THR with our tripawd buddy. He’s older than Murphy but still has a lot of “want to”. Seeing the videos you posted encourage us as well as give us a realistic timeframe to know what to expect when. I think we have the basics figured out. Lots of rugs around to keep him from slipping. Really good vet and rehab folks in waiting. Some boredombuster ideas.
Is there anything that you can think of after the fact that you wished you’d thought of earlier or anything acquired wisdom that you can share now? Thansk!
Great questions! If Kathi doesn’t see this please post in the Forums where we can help you and your boy OK? Best wishes to you both, and cheers for a speedy recovery.
Pepper is out for a trial with a family interested in adopting him! We are hoping it is a good match!
Wonderful article – the seroma drainage was by far the most stressful and terrifying part of recovery for us! Thanks to you guys, we realized it was completely normal and found the best ways to care for our girl and keep her comfy 🙂
Yay! I’m so glad you found this helpful for Ziva’s recovery. Thanks for the feedback, give her a smooch from us.
Exactly one year since last I wrote. Two years tomorrow that my boy is gone. And two weeks ago I said goodbye to Koko, my Siamese cat, who was Connor’s “brother” and my main support after he left us. It was hard to say goodbye to the greatest kitty I’ve ever known and loved, but he had a long and wonderful life, and while I miss him, the loss is nothing like what I felt when I lost my six year old dog, the closest thing I will ever have to a child. My Con was so young, and taken too early. After two years, I am finally able to talk about my boy without breaking down. I still think of him every day, still hold him close in my dreams, and tonight and tomorrow I will spend some time looking at photos and letters and emails, and remembering…love you my baby, Mama loves you so much.
So sorry to hear about Koko. They were all lucky to have you.
Nina, it is good to hear from you on this bittersweet day. We are keeping you in our hearts and lighting a candle for Connor and Koko, always in our hearts.
Wyatt Ray!!! You sure do know how to keep a secret!!!!
And, as usual, you are the the RockStar Celebrity of the “how to” video And the best part of the video (from your perspective), is you w1ere getting treats tossed uour way! You trained your hoomans si well….everytime you wiggled, you got a treat! You are such a smart voy!
I’m sorry the injection didn’t work as well as hoped. But I’m soooo glad that you appear to see the cart as your friend! You certainly look happy in the photos. And I’m sure Ausrin Ray was glad to get rid of it!
My illusion is that you had to stand and stay still a lot for the proper fittings. I can’t imagine the restraint you showed as all these “trial and error” details were worked out. Then again, maybe they had a treat bag tied around your collar
The tips from Dr. Kramer were informative. I’m glad she was able to help you with proper fitting, usage, etc.
Wyatt, we are all so happy that you have a tool to help you continue to be YOU! And goodness knows, you have two hoomans who will do whatever it takes to keep you being you❤
Keep us posted Wyatt! Video next!!!
Love
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Thanks Michelle & Sally! We’re glad you found it useful, as Dr. Kramer’s tips are applicable to four-leggers as well.
Yeah you guessed it Sally, Wyatt ate WAY too much that day as we bribed him through the fitting and trial and error process. Now that we have it down we will be making some videos to share so stay tuned.
This was very interesting. Thank you for sharing Wyatt’s experience with us.
xoxox
Michelle & Angel Sassy
In your description of the Ruff Wear Webmaster, you state, “Most people find it works well for their front or left leg amputee,…”. Does that mean it does not work for right rear amputees, or is that just a typo? My foster dog is a recent right rear amputee and, before reading your arricle, I had been very interested in the Webmaster for him after he heals.
The Web Master works very well for any front or rear leg Tripawd. Where did you see that quote Ann? It clearly isn’t in this blog post where you commented.
This is such a fascinating interview! Thanks for Sharing. rhis woth us. And thanks to Dr Cahalane for all she is doing to raise awareness in her profession.
The questions proposed brought out so much insight. Good job!!!!
I love the way they embrace their dogs as family members without hesitation and without apology, jncluding how they handle their “funeral”, as well as overseeing their cremations. And having dogs enjoy their dining experience with their humans in restaurants, sweet!!!
Looking forward to the next installment.
Gratefully,
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
That’s really interesting, thanks! It is actually so good to hear other positive stories from around the world and not just the horror stories of countries where animal neglect and abuse is still the norm. I also always find it hugely fascinating how not just the way we treat and see our pets differ from country to country but also how veterinary norms and treatments differ.
thanks
tina
I’m glad you enjoyed it Tina! Global members like you are the inspawration behind getting more perspectives from non-US vets. Perhaps it’s time for us to talk to a Germany-based vet? If you have one you think would make a good guest on the show, please let us know.
oh darn…no cats huh. Probably don’t have room on the bed….and one of the cats is named Pepper!! Here is hoping the sweet boy finds his warm spot soon….he will miss the snow tho
Thanks for featuring Pepper! He deserves a loving home with caring people!
Well. Thank you VERY much for all of this, as I picked up one of my dogs (I have four) from the vet today. She is a 7 yr old GSD and she too had amputation yesterday morning. They removed all of her left hind leg due the horrid, all too common cancer we suffer in our world. I feel much calmer inside after reading all of these posts and will head to your forums next. Thank you again, so very much for all of this sharing! Happy New Year to everyone. =)
Thnaks for the comment and best wishes for your pup! You will find MUCH more help and support in the forums, blogs, live chat and many other Tripawds Resources.
Such a lovely way to express this journey And yes, the lessons learned are powerful indeed.
Mr Jerry’s life lessons need to be a part of our daily meditation or empowering thoughts, etc. You’re a wise boy Jerry!!
And Wyatt Ray, you look quite dashing in uoir Santa hat. And your Mom looks quite adorable in her hat. And your Dad looks quite…er…well….let’s just say that he wears that very unique Nelson tee quite well!
The very best wishes for health and happiness back atcha’!
Love always❤
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Hoppy New Year to you also Sally! Maybe Spirit Jerry needs his own meditation app?! We hope your 2019 is the best ever!
I teared up reading this message because it is so true. Happy New Year and thank you for being here!
Tara and Dottie
Aww thanks Tara. Hoppy 2019 to you and Dottie as well. May it be full of joy and hoppiness for your pack.
Hoppy New Year. Thanks for being here when we need you. Wishing you the best 2019 possible. <3 the picture
xoxoxo
Michelle & Angel Sassy
And you as well Michelle, you are such a gift to this community. Love you! Hoppy 2019!
Hoppy New Year you guys! Thanks for being my adopted family! Wishing you all the best in 2019!
Hip! Hop! Happy New Year Paula! You’re the best family ever 🙂 Have a great new year!
Hoppy New Year Wyatt, Rene, and Jim! Wishing you all a healthy and prosperous New Year
Jackie and Huckleberry
Same to you and all the critters Jackie, we hope your year is just grand!
I hope everybody had a Merry Christmas and a Hoppy New Year 🙂
Paw shucks, same to you!
❤❤
Love you back Sally!
Merry Christmas! I hope you have a relaxing enjoyable day
Big hugs,
Jackie, David, Huckleberry, Andy, Oscar, Mitchell, and Bo
xoxoxo
We sure did. Hoppy New Year to you and the critters Jackie!
My 12 yr old pittie boy had his right rear back right leg amputated. The stitches were not done correctly and look to be coming off. I sent pic to place he got it done and they want hom to come in and get it re checked. This will be his 2nd day since surgery. He is in so much pain from stitches, he yelps and crys getting up. He is on all his meds. I tried carrying him but is just too much for me. My hisband wrks all day and i have a 3 yr old smar baby. My question is how can i help him pee? Or poop for that matter? How much longer will hos recovery period be? Which harness may I buy?
Nonita, please come join us in our Discussion Forums where you will receive much more help and feedback. I’m sorry your dog is having problems. You definitely want your vet to check those stitches (is your dog wearing a cone? If not, he needs to be). Please check out Jerry’s Required Reading List and our What to Expect amputation recovery articles for answers to your immediate questions.
That picture is my girl Applesauce. I sadly lost her a month ago. She was 21 months post diagnosis for osteosarcoma and also a malignant melanoma under her tongue. Post 18 months amputation. We did hydrotherapy and cold laser and acupuncture every two weeks for the past 1.5 years and it helped her immensely. As well as supplements, herbs and CBD oil. She loved to swim and walks and playing. She made it to 11.5 years, almost 12. My heart is broken ❤️
Oh Nancy! I’m so sorry to hear that. Applesauce really spoke to me when I was searching for photos of beautiful senior dogs. My heart goes out to you. She had such a great life thanks to you, and I’m sure that her spirit is with you in so many ways. Please know you are always welcome to talk with us in Coping with Loss. We want to be there for you so hop on over OK? (((hugs))))
My dog Maggie had her rear leg amputated 2 yrs ago. There is still an open wound. My vet said it will never heal because the bone keeps popping out of the skin. She also just told me a week ago that she had MRSA probably from the surgery. Is irt common yo have a none healing wound? Are we in danger of getting MRSA?
Cindy, this is not a common situation. Your poor dog! No, the bone should not be popping out two years later or ever for that matter. Are you saying your dog had MRSA after the surgery and your vet didn’t tell you? Woaah. Find a new AAHA-accredited veterinary practice and get a second opinion for an amputation correction surgery, for your dog’s sake. And do join our Discussion Forums so we can offer faster, better help. See you there.
I have a 3 legged dog, german Shepard akbash mix and hes struggling to use his back 1 leg at all. Any idea or tips to help me get him up on it to even start using it?
Yes. Please consult with a certified rehab therapist for a professional evaluation, treatment recommendations and exercises you can do at home to keep your pup fit and strong. Visit a CCRP or CCRT and the Tripawds Foundation will even pay for your first visit from the Maggie Moo Fund for Tripawd Rehab! For help finding the mant Tripawds resources and assistance programs, start here.
Have you found a candidate yet? I am very interested! I see this was back in May.
Please use the links above to review the FAQs and contact Pawopedic directly with any questions.
Hoppy LateThanksgiving we are thankful for Tripawds.com and the community for all you do for every one of us!
And same to you Holly, Purrkins, Saxton & Mark! The word “thankful” barely scratches the surface of the gratitude we have for all you do here. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Happy Thanksgiving.
Back at ya Michelle, hope you are having a lovely weekend! We are so thankful for your friendship and support!
My Jaxson is 9 years old and very active. Playful, loves to run, hike and jump fences. He had osteosarcoma in his leg and was in very severe pain. But he just had surgery 3 days ago, amputating his rear right leg. He still has not started using his other rear leg or even putting weight on it. He acts as tho he can’t even feel anything back there. He even drags his butt sometimes. When we take him outside, in a sling, he just drags the leg. He went a long time before having the amputation. I would think he had enough strength to pick his back end up, but no. Is this normal? It sure does not seem that way at all. Maybe we are being too pushy? Trying to see results too quickly? He even seems discouraged and depressed. We are seeing the vet today about this issue. Just thought I’d get a little advice from someone who has been they this. Please, I’d love to hear any experiences. ❤️
Best wishes for Jaxson. Every dog’s recovery is different, and overdoing it too soon can certainly cause mobility issues. Confinemnt and moderation are key to a speedy recovery, and proper rehab is important. You will find plenty of tips in the Tripawds e-books or by searching the blogs and forums. And you can call the toll-free Tripawds Helpline anytime! Start here for help finding the many Tripawds resources.
Our best advice is to consult with a certified rehab vet/tech for an orthopedic evaluation, treatment recommendations and strengthening exercises you can do at home. Visit a CCRT or CCCRP and the Tripawds Foundation can even pay for your first visit from the Maggie Moo Fund for Tripawd Rehab!
I am fostering a 5 year old dobe that was hit by a car last year. The rescue tried several surgeries to save the leg but we lost that battle last week. She has had a year to get used to having only three good legs but the amputation has definitely been a change. Any tips on how to help a big dog relearn how to get up, get around and how to potty will be greatly appreciated.
You will find many helpful rehab tips and videos by searching the blogs and forums, or save time by downloading Loving Life on Three Legs. The absolute best recommendation is to consult with a certified rehab therapist for an orthopedic evaluation, treatment recommendations and strengthening exercises you can do at home. Visit a CCRT or CCCRP and the Tripawds Foundation can even pay for your first visit from the Maggie Moo Fund for Tripawd Rehab!
My three year old Maltese was hit by a school bus and lost his leg because of it. He is taking pain medication as he had surgery just five days ago. I know the medicine makes them sleepy but he hardly wants to get out of his kennel. He has only slept in it a night, otherwise he has gone with me everywhere. Now that’s the only place he wants to be. Is this normal? When should I be concerned? Do you think he’s ok?
Hi coopersmom, sorry to hear about your pup but so glad that he survived the accident! Five days isn’t a long time after surgery but if he is behaving oddly I would ask your vet to adjust his pain medication. He may need more or less, but what you are describing sounds like he isn’t getting enough. Also please consider joining our Discussion Forums for more insight from the community. See you there!
Darling Wyatt, you sure are a Wonder Dawg!! You know no limits my friend!! You really had your Mum and Dad scared though!!! Thank goodness there is no surgery in your future!!! Keep keeping well my darling boy!
Hugs and love all around ♥️ ♥️ ♥️
WOW WYATT!!! Having to go from skydiving to couch surfing……..BOOOORING!!!! And jaci g to go through the indignities of poking and prodding, pulling and stretching, at the hands of Vets! Poor baby!!
Thanks so much for chronicling every thing Wyatt has been going through to get to this point. Most importantly, really, really glad to know that some scary things have been eliminated.
Sharing your game plan and why is really helpful. Unfortunately, what Wyatt is going through is what a lot of Tripawds will face. The fact that Wyatt has made it all these years without any “horrible” issues, is quite a testament to the care tjat handsome boy has received from you two.
I’m coming back to click on the link about the injection. Sounds interesting. Did you feel like the injection had a fairly immediate noticeable result?
Looking forward to more follow-up blogs AND pictures of Mr Handsome!
Hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Thanks Sally, I knew you would understand how hard it is for me to do this healing thing!
Mom says “Thank you!” for saying she and Dad do a good job keeping me strong. And she says it took about a week before she could see that the surgery was going to help. In some instances it takes longer. but she’s gonna write more about that next week.
Awww Wyatt. It is heck getting older. I sure am glad your procedure worked for you. I know your mom & dad take really good care of you. I just started giving Bosch adaquin injections for arthritis last week. So far seem to be ok with it.
hugs
Michelle & Angel Sassy
Wyatt says Bosch is one super lucky dawg to have a great mom like you!
Wow. Wyatt Ray my Mac has chronic arthritis. We’ve only ever been given drugs to manage it – Metacam & Amantadine. I apply common sense & keep control of his weight and admit I have worried over “what’s enough exercise” for a tripawd with chronic arthritis. We’re today at the 11 weeks mark of amputation and half way through his chemo. I over worry about his capabilities but fret if we do damage the vets will insist on euthanasia. He tore his ccl last year which I think is what triggered the osteosarcoma (it’s been suggested by my vet), and was told he will probably do the other leg too (which is now his only hind leg). I asked about physio and got told nope, as “wouldn’t have amputated if didn’t think other leg would cope”. Looking forward to reading more about your journey. Thanks guys for posting!! Kerry & Mac
Kerry, you are a great pet parent. Thanks for sharing Mac’s story with us! And 3-paws up to you for remaining so vigilant about his activity. Yes, we have heard of cruciate repair hardware being a potential source of osteosarcoma, that link has been discussed for some time. As for physio, we really encourage you to visit a physio therapist on your own if your veterinarian isn’t supportive. ALL dogs can benefit from an evaluation, and especially three-legged ones. There are still some vets who aren’t familiar with the benefits of physio, so please reach out to one to help Mac live a long, happy life on three. If you aren’t sure where to start, join our discussion forums and we can help you find one.
She’s absolutely beautiful! My tripawd GSD Angie lost her left hind leg at four months of age also-we adopted her from the SPCA at seven months-she can do everything her four-legged brother can do & she runs the house!
Louise, you have one lucky pup there, thanks for adopting her. So happy to hear she is doing great and loving life!
Three paws up, such a touching story!
BEAUTIFUL STORY!!! BEAUTIFUL DOGGY!! BEAUTIFUL HOOMAN SOUL!!!❤❤❤❤
Clearly Aksel Rose was born to be on this journey with Katherine….and vice versa!! The bond is delightful! Such exquisite care too!
Thanks for sharing these two precious Souls with us…..and the wonderful photps!
Hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
I am so sorry for your loss. Just know that you did everything you could. He will always be with you in spirit.
Hugs,
Jackie and Huck ❤️
Thank you so much for this beautiful post honoring Hiroaki. We both are still struggling to fully accept that he is gone. It has been 2 of the longest weeks of our lives but we have to go on for us, his sisters and his memory. I see signs of my little boy everywhere.
Paw shucks, it’s the least we could do for being introduced to such an amazing kitty. How wonderful his energetic presence is so strong in your life. We have no doubt it will continue. Much love & hugs to the pride.
I was not quite ready for this story and am sitting here completely choked up with tears in my eyes. What a beautiful story, I am so grateful to have found this site.
Dash, we are glad you found us too. Thank you for the sweet note. Let us know how we can help you in your own journey.
I’d like very nuch to get these for my cat who struggles the same way. He’s a large cat, which doesn’t help. He became a tripawd in June of this year, taking his back leg.
We would LOVE to see someone come up with these for kitties! Laura, join us in the Tripawd Cat Forum so we can chime in with ideas to help your cat OK?
PS Okay, a bit blurry eyed over here too with that video. If only our dogs and cats could live with us eight up to tje day we transition, and then go with us into the next dimension.
WOW! Talk about a life well loved and well loved! That Jerry enjoyed every moment veing with you!! That boy had a fun filled life!!
I loved the tug of war part of the video. He was NOT giving up! And playing ball with Jim and bumping tje ball right back to him with great precision..BRILLIANT!!
And hearing his bark again, his splashy sounds as he frolic in the water…..PRICELESS!
Beautiful tribute
We are glad you enjoyed the video, Sally! Yeah, it brought back lots of good times with that dog. Giving him the adventures he so patiently waited for all his life was the least we could do to pay him back for all he did to help us be more grounded human beings.
Yes, I agree with PETRA. We HAVE gotten to meet Jerry. It’s not “just” through the great pictures that tell his story or the fantastic banners that you share with us. Nope, that’s just part of his LIVING LEGACY.
That “Wise Sage” continues to live on through you and continues his Soul’s Purpose through your Soul’s Purpose. Not “happenstance” at all. Destiny, guided, divinely driven, reunion of Soul’s…whatever you want to call it, JIM, RENE AND JERRY came together at this time to teach us all soooo many life lessons.
And of course, let’s not overlook the lives of dogs and cats all over the world who have been given extended quality time because of the “little blog” you started ten years ago. And for those tragic cases where little, or no extended time is given, we are able to reach out with love and support that can only been found here from those who understand the journey like no others can.
Jerry and his humans created a “Universe of Love” where there is no judgement, no right or wrong. There is an acceptance and support given to each individual for whatever “forced choice” they need to make.
We all come together here because of our unbreakable bonds with our dogs and cats. Make no mistake about it, the bonds we form with each other are just as deep and just as unbreakable. Regardless of age, race, skinny, fat, differing political views, rich, poor, etc….LOVE brings us together and LOVE is what unites us and makes our hearts all beat in harmony as one.
Yes, the lessons Jerry taught us, and continues to teach us, are timeless.
When Jerry picked you, he knew you would understand his journey is more than “just” about thriving on three legs. His message of love and acceptance resonates through you two every single day.
Thank you. Thank you.
Love and light
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Sally, your way with words is beyond anything I could ever write. You speak from the heart, with unmatched wisdom. Thank you for your kind words and taking time to honor Jerry’s life. Truthfully, all of what you see here is because of what he taught us, and all the lessons and love that followed through the wonderful people like yourself that he has brought here. Making Tripawds a judgement-free, pure love and support zone, is what we owe him and all the animals in this world who are unburdened by the human brain. We are honored to be paying back that debt through this community, with so much help from loving, brilliant people who happen to find themselves here because of a dreaded disease, accident or other reason. Thank you thank you for allowing us to continue paying it forward. xoxoxo
PS.Lovely pendant. I kmow you’ll feel Fran’s presence Every time you wear rhis
You have paid tribute to Fran beautifully!! Every single word was so heartfelt. Lovely, an absolutely lovely expression of your relatuonship with Fran. ❤ You gave us such a vivid portrait of what a special Soul Fran is!!
He must ve bragging non stop at the Bridge about what a great time he had with you while in his earth clothes! Fran got to know what it felt like to be loved and spoiled and no dog could ask for anything more. And the love you filled him with will stay with him forever. And make no mistake, the love he filled you with will stay with your forever❤
Thank you sooo much for allowing us the privilege of getting to know this amazing Warrior with the “goofiest” face and the best snorer of all time!
Love and hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
PS When Fran was welcomed back home at the Rainbow Bridge, he was greet with a wheelbarrow full of purple toys!
LOVE you Jerry! Now and furever. We will be eternally grateful to you for inspiring your pawrents to create such a wonderful resource and loving community! We were all so sad to lose you but we know you were needed over the bridge because they didn’t have a CFO until you showed up!!
xoxo,
Codie Rae and the Oaktown Pack
Love you back CR & the pack. We couldn’t do Tripawds without your love and support. And we love the thought of Jerry G. Dawg, Rainbow Bridge CFO. Thank you!
Jim and Rene, we got to meet a beautiful soul named JERRY through the two of you! I have watched his 10 year tribute video and even though I never got to meet Jerry, I cried tears for you both… it is obvious as to how much you love and miss your boy still, you have captured some beautiful moments that will be with you furever!
Thank you Jerry for being the special soul that you are and special thanks to both of you for giving your life to Tripawds and all of us who have needed the support.
Stewie is thriving on 3 and we never would have imagined it possible, but for Tripawds.com! Thank you!!
Lots of love from Super Stu and his ever loving Pack
xxxxxxx
Petra, we so appreciate your beautiful note and loving words, thank you. It’s almost like you have met him, because you embody the spirit of Be More Dog. Each time we look at Stewie we are amazed and so grateful that you and Paul took that brave step into Tripawdland. You are all a great example of what is possible on three legs for a giant breed dog. What a joy and honor to have met all of you!
Tears for you and your beloved Jerry, as much as for me and my beloved Dreson who was also taken after battling osteosarcoma. Seeing my incredible boy struggling on 3 legs nearly broke me. I was therefore so fortunate to come across your organization and am so grateful for all the widom and knowledge and HOPE I took from it. It’s lovely of you to celebrate Jerry with such a loving tribute. Perhaps he and Dreson have shared a romp or two.
The Best Dog Ever, and Best Owners Ever!
Jet, you are so wonderful, thank you!
Great tribute! Thanks for sharing!
And thanks to Jerry for creating this community!
Awwww. Anytime my friend. Thank YOU for being part of the magic.
Beautiful Tribute for a beautiful soul!
The world IS a better place because of you three!
Destined to change the world Jerry and his pawrents and they HAVE! We are all grateful for a place to land and find the support we need.
We are all hopping on because you showed us all three is more than pawsible and to be more dawg/cat. We are furever grateful for everything you do and teach every one of us on this journey!
Standing ovation to you three!
Holly, Mark, Purrkins & Saxton
XOXO
We are blushing Holly, thank you for the heartfelt note. The magic that is Tripawds happens because of great people and pets like you. We are blessed.
I wish I had met Jerry, but I’m so very glad that I’ve met Wyatt (and of course, the two of you! <3). I just can't even imagine how what our journey with Murphy would have been like without this place. Jerry's legacy is truly that, a legacy. He has spread love, awareness, life-long friendships and more – wow. That's a lot to do in one lifetime!
Love you guys!
Donna
Lots of love back to you Donna. What a joy to meet you, and so comforting know that Angel Murphy will always be part of the fabric of the community that surrounds newcomers with support. We are so grateful to be part of your life.
Such a beautiful boy! and goofy which is always my favorite kind of dog.
Love to you on this heartbreaking anniversary! You have truly saved so many of us and changed all of our lives!
(is that “my” cathedral?)
hugs
Teri
>> is that “my” cathedral?
Yes! 🙂
He sure was a goofball Teri! I have no doubt you would have loved him.
That is a beautiful tribute, Jerry was truly special and so are you Rene and Jim. Thank you Jerry for inspiring a place that helps so many people in need. Thank you also for the special friendships and bonds that were possible because of your story.
Love you guys,
Jackie and Huckleberry
xoxoxoxo
And your story too, Jackie! Thanks for sharing your wisdom and support with the community. We are better because of it.
Echo Michelle & Angel Sassy’s remarks, especially as my GSD also diagnosed with osteosarcoma. 8 weeks today my 8 yr old GSD had his leg amputated. All the support and comfort I have received has been from this community. What an amazing & beautiful legacy Jerry leaves with us. So sorry anyone has to go through this, but so glad i’m not alone & have somewhere to turn to for support.
Kerry & Mac thank you Jerry & co xxx
Kerry and Mac, we wish that you didn’t have to join because of cancer but are so honored we can be here to support you in your journey. May Mac kick but for a long, long time!
Thank you Jerry for inspiring the most wonderful & supportive online community xox
Awww, you are so welcome Isabelle!
He looked like such a fun dog! You hit the jackpot when he picked you, as did all of us when we found this site. Thank you for changing my life!
Paula and Warrior Angel Nitro
It really wasn’t us Paula, it was all Jerry Magic that created this place. And it’s our honor to be welcomed into Nitro’s journey. We are better people because of your boy. So thank YOU.
Hoppy Angelversary Jerry.
You needed to give a tissue alert. Sitting here crying. Wonderful job on the memories on the video and on your post. Thank you Jerry if it weren’t for you we all wouldn’t be here together.
xoxoxo
Michelle & Angel Sassy
Just hoppy tears OK Michelle? Promise? Thank you for being here to watch the video and all your support. You are such a joyful gift to all of us. We so appreciate and love you, the girls, Bosch and unforgettable Sassy.
Our poodle Sweetie is a rescue and had her back leg removed due to an injury. Have no idea what happrned just that it was crushed so we knew it had to go when adopting. We’ve only had her a year but have started looking into a cart from Eddie’s Wheels.
If her remaining back leg goes because of a blown ACL then surgery is $4000. But a cart for her size is $325. Seems like a bargain to me and good preventative maintenance to help that back leg. Talked with Eddie’s Wherls yesterday and they are so nice and helpful. We are very excited to be able to take Sweetie on longer outings with a cart.
Sweetie is lucky to have found her way to you Amy! I think that as long as you are working with a rehabilitation therapist to fit the cart and help get her used to it, a cart is a great way to help her have a good quality of life. Keep us posted in our “Hopping Around” Discussion Forum, we’d love to follow along.
My boxer Tysons front right leg was amputated today. This website Is incredibly resourceful .I’m looking forward to exploring some more ,as I could really use the support.
Welcome and best wishes for Tyson! Start here for help finding the many Tripawds resources and assistance programs.
oh darn it! Mom has made a note for future purchases.
She is hoping that since she did order more stuff than just the book that the 1% smile might come out to be the same as the 10-20% from the book alone! =) fingers crossed.
Can’t wait to read Miss Olive’s story!
My mom thinks its very important for me to read. So she used the above link to purchase Miss Olive’s book and she is hoping that this purchase will benefit Tripawds, however, her big question is what happens if once she had the book in her cart (using the above link) she then switched to amazon smile (which she has Tripawds as our charity) will you get double the benefits? She struggles with technology and she is just hoping that Tripawds will benefit somehow and that by trying to use both the link and amazon smile she didn’t create a disaster and you end up with nothing! =)
…will you get double the benefits?
🙂 No. Amazon does not offer affiliate commissions on top of Smile disbursements.
Yes, The Tripawds Foundation will benefit from Amazon Smile purchases. The amount donated via Smile purchases, however, is approximately 1% of the sale. Tripawds affiliate commissions on the other hand, are anywhere from 10-20% depending upon the product category and item(s) purchased. Go figure… :-\
This forum topic explains Smile vs Amazon affiliate links in more detail. Thanks for asking!
Thank you for honoring Tate this week! His little sister Sam is now 7 and has gray hairs under her chin, hard to believe! She was a rambunctious puppy that looked up to her big brother and loved to play with him. Tate never met his little brother Zeke, who is 6 years old. They both have lived longer than our Tate, we never forget that every day is a gift. Thank you Tripawds for being there for me through that painful time.
You are so welcome, we will never forget your sweet boy. It’s hard to believe that much time has gone by, Sam is really 7? Wow. She and Zeke are no doubt the apple of Tate’s eye in heaven. It’s wonderful to hear from you, thanks for the sweet note.
Thanks. We do not have a Board certified orthopedic surgeon here however we have a specialty vet surgeon who does lots of FHO but not on tripods of course as they are rare…especially small dogs! I have an appointment with him in 8 days. I have been doing research however not many answers.
Hi Cocodoggie.Personally, I would only want a vet who has done this on Tripawd dogs to do a surgery like this, and would also make sure I have a qualified rehab practitioner in place. You can read about Frankie’s experience to see why this is so important. Hope to see you in the Forums.
My six year old greyhound Zeke had a front leg amputation two months ago (this, after breaking a back leg on the track when he was two). He has had two of four carboplatin treatments and I have decided to move forward with the osteo vaccine. The oncologist at my local vet calls it a game changer. I understand that those of you whose dog is part of the trials are constrained in your ability to share your experiences, but anything you can talk about would be greatly appreciated. The oncologist is giving me a choice of being part of the study or administering the vaccine outside the study. Has anyone run into this situation? Connie, do I understand that Bowie developed more osteo after she completed the vaccine course? Thanks to all in advance.
Best wishes for Zeke! Costs may be greater when administering the vaccine outside the study. You may find more helpful feedback from members discussing the vaccine in the forums.
Here, too, this is such an important message!!! Our vet said Fallon was too old, tall, and arthritic for an amputation. We went further, to a greyhound expert doc and our surgeon–and Fallon will be at her one year ampuversary in October, so far cancer free!!!. I think, sadly, that too many people just take that first opinion.
Dawn that is just unbelievable. 3-paws up for advocating for her, we are smarter because of it! #FallonRocks
Our Sophie was 12 yrs when she was diagnosed with Osteocarcoma. Our vet did not see it on the x-ray, but offered us the option of having a radiologist read the films, which we agreed to, thank heavens. We chose amputation, 6 rounds of chemo, metronomic therapy, apocaps and Canine Immunity. She lived to 16 1/2, well over 4 years cancer free. She lived her life fully, and was just herself but missing a leg until the end. We lost her in April, miss her terribly, but are happy to hear your story. Good luck, and we would not hesitate to do it all again.
Oh wow Bill, what a story! Sophie rocked life on 3 thanks to you! We are sorry she’s an angel now, but what a victorious life she led. Thank you for sharing.
YEP,
When my Cookie was diagnosed by our regular vet he gave NO OPTION? , just your dog has 1 or 2 months to live. Well I decided to get a 2nd opinion. Here we are 6 months post op finished with chemo and about to start the vaccine and we are doing Great
Wow Doug has it really been six months? Incredible! You need to send your story for Tripawd Tuesday. PM me with it! Congrats and thank you for being a great advocate for your girl!
Thanks for the great interview with Dr. Kramer. Watch this video of Roosevelt, born with bilateral deformities in the front legs, living the good life in a wheelchair by Eddie’s Wheels: https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLfU86bz5OvCFWV899p5AD7hffF7fgMpqw&time_continue=6&v=faSJlFOdRY4
Beautiful story about sweet Wrigley! We too have a stroller for our 11 yr old Tripawd Winston. I love being able to take walks around the lake just as we used to do. He always has a smile on his face when we start to roll!
Thank you for sharing your story. ❤️
Shelly and Winston
Aww we want to see a photo of Winston in his chariot! What a lucky pup!
My boxer of 7 1/2 years old just got his left rear leg amputated today, so I am looking forward learning as much as I can to help him live a giod life.
You’re off to a great start Lidia, let us know how he’s doing by coming to our Discussion Forums when you are able. Best wishes to your Tripawd hero!
I’M IN LOVE❤❤ ROMY IS SICH A BEAUTIFUL GIRL!!! YOU CAN SEE HER PERSONALITY SHINING THROUGH!
So uplifting to hear how well Romy is dojng. She is definitely a CHAMP. amd a ROCKSTAR too!
Thanks for sharing this wonderful dog with us. Your bond is such a delight to see!
Hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
I have a year old pit/Jack Russel mix. He had to have his rear, right leg amputated before I adopted him from the shelter. It seems that after a long day of running around the house and up and down my stairs, he gets “ghost pains” where that leg used to be.
I’m not sure if he is wheelchair ready, as he still gets along really well. But I’m afraid that he is putting stress on his spine and causing himself more harm than good. I already have him on nerve pain medication, and it does not seem to help much.
What do you suggest?
Hi Erin! I’m not a vet but at a year old I’m going to bet that your doggie is not ready for a wheel chair. Your best bet is to get together with a canine rehab therapist who can evaluate him, his lifestyle and exercise needs and habits, and come up with a plan to alleviate any pain he is experiencing. The best part is that the Tripawds Foundation may even pay for your first rehab visit! Also, please come to our Hopping Around Discussion Forum so we can provide even more feedback. See you there!
Today we picked up our beautiful 9 year old Golden Newfie, Tiffany, after having her front right leg amputated on Thursday due to Osteosarcoma. Since being diagnosed on Aug 8 we have been overwhelmed with emotion an have looked at your site daily for information and to find the courage to get through this. Thank you.
Penny, John, Adam, Emma & Tiffany
Best wishes for Tiffany! For help finding the many Tripawds resources and assistance programs, please start here.
Penny
Sending prayers to Tiffany & your family as you get through this difficult time but you will get through believe me with the Tripawd community & the love you have for each other
I lost my Angel Jackson in April 12, 2016 after 7 months post amputation & cancer treatment. He was my ‘fur baby’ & I’m forever grateful for him in my life. Be strong, cry when you need to, keep reaching out to the Tripawd community for support (they are an incredible inspiration & will help you in the toughest times) never give up & enjoy all the
beautiful blessings you have with Tiffany everyday of her life. Just “BE”
Andrea & Angel Jackson
Beautiful advice, Andrea. Thank you so much for taking time to offer support and share Jackson’s story. You are no doubt making him so proud. (((hugs)))
Please tell me if there is any documented evidence that there is phantom pain for dogs that have their tails docked for arthritic reasons due to specific breed conformation. I have a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and she aggressively chews on her tail to the point where it is now infected for the second time, and she’ll need to go to the vet for a shot of cortisone, a course of antibiotics, and a cone to keep her from reaching it. I’m very upset that breeders and the American Kennel Association are so behind the times, when many countries have banned the docking practice because it is considered cruel. How can this docking practice be deemed as illegal, as it is a practice only for the vanity of human owners? This horrific practice cuts off the end of a dog’s spine, which affects its balance, swimming abilities, and it’s ability to communicate emotions – to us and to other dogs.
Elisabet, I’m not a vet but it would make sense to me that she is feeling phantom pain. Even something like declawing is akin to cutting off thumbs, so my guess is that the tail holds similar sensations. I’m so sorry about her situation. Have you considered talking to a behaviorist about prescribing a SSRI or other calming medication? Oftentimes meds like Clomicalm and Prozac are used to help with anxiety and OCD issues, and perhaps that, along with Gabapentin, may help. It’s something to ask your vet about.
Best wishes to you and your girl, she’s so lucky to have you.
I just lost my girl yesterday. Amputation of front leg 7 days ago and was sent home with Prevacox. I noticed her amputated area tremoring, but I assumed the Prevacox would work. Then she developed a huge hole in her front elbow from slamming down on it because of her amputation. It was oozing and I called vet that day, told me to pick up antibiotics there next business day. I could tell there was something wrong with Sissy, but I was in denial. Yesterday will be a day I never forget because my poor girl was dying and in so much pain. I ran out of house to get help and got back in 5 minutes and she was gone. My heart is broken and I’m completely out of my mind right now. I just hate that she died and I wasn’t there for her.
My heart aches for you snoopy, I’m so sorry. Please see my thoughts here in your other post.
Hi Jerry, I thought I was done crying. I’m not after reading your reply’s ❤️
Oh wow..Im so sorry. My jack Russel Macy was hit by a car had back leg amputated Friday …im so worried she’s not having BM and the 2 she did have Saturday was dark blood…put in ER call to the vet Sat night…no call back until after they closed last night…the vet only see’s $$ signs..unfortunatly I acted without thinking ran to get her out of the road and she bit me a few times breaking bones and arterial gash in my hand so I was taken by squad and she was taken by Sherrif to closest vet
Jaime and Macy, we hope you are both doing better. Please come to our Discussion Forums so we can be of more help to you both OK?
So very sorry for the loss of precious Gus. I’m crying, but trying to imagine him running free on his four legs at the Bridge. He will wait for you and watch over you. I could see his sweet soul in his face. God bless.
Excellent interview!! A must listen or read for ALL cat owners!
Yes, NO more short sticks for cats. I love Stephen addressed that cats and dogs are both mammals and feeling the same pain! YES, THE SAME and cats hide it more! Same and we don’t treat it the same! Subject drives me bonkers.
Multi/drugs!!
Good options for cats and NO EXCUSE for lack of pain management for cats! We MUST advocate for our cats.
THANK YOU! <3
Yay Holly I’m so hoppy you liked the interview. You inspire us to continue reaching out for more feline Tripawd information. They absolutely deserve to be treated the same!
Hello! What great news that your kitty has beaten the odds! I would like to chat with you about the radiation. Did you proceed with this? I am wondering whether amputation is enough or must we do that along with radiation? Thank you! My kitty has only undergone her first limited excision.
Best wishes for your cat! Find much more help in the discussion forums than you will here via comments on this blog post. Tripawds members can also use Private Messaging and the Live Chat to connect with others.
Absolutely grinning ear to ear reading about this delightful pup and his lovely hooman! Such a heartwarming story.
I do believe Fox had Heidi’s named stamped on his heart the day he was born, as did she his❤❤❤
Thank yoj for sharing your preciius Fox with us. He is sooooo darn cute! I just want to reach through the screen and snuggle with him!
So glad you two found each other❤
Hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
I’m so happy to hear your story! My dog, Squish, just had patella luxation surgery yesterday on his remaining rear leg. His other rear leg was amputated a little over three years ago, due to injury from abuse. We adopted him and brought him home a few days after his amputation. He’s done great until about a month ago when his knee on the remaining rear leg started popping out of place. We just picked him up from his surgery this afternoon and I can already tell that going out to potty is going to be a big issue. He won’t put any weight on his leg yet. The vet said this is to be expected. We were sent home with a sling, but I’ve taken him out a few times now and he refuses to move. I’m hopeful that he’ll improve each day, but just freaking out a little bit I guess. Glad to hear that others have been through this.
Best wishes for Squish! Start here for help finding all the helpful Tripawds resources and assistance programs.
Hi Leslie,
My dog is most likely going to undergo the same surgery. She’s missing her back right leg, and it seems she has an ACL tear on the back left one.
Do you have any recommendations from your experience with a dog that can’t use that back leg left? I’m afraid it’ll be very hard for my pup to pee or poop, since she won’t be able to use the leg at all for support.
Thanks!
Erika
Best wishes for your pup Erika! Search the Tripawds Blogs and Forums and you will find many more recent articles, podcasts, and video interviews about remaining limb surgery recovery in amputee dogs. Post in the forums for more help from others, or call the toll-free Tripawds Helpline anytime. Start here for help finding the Tripawds Resources.
My 5 year old Yorkie had a leg amputated last week due to cancer. My husband sent me this article to read and I found it very helpful!!
Thanks for the comment! For help finding all the helpful Tripawds resources and assistance programs, start here.
My Brittany, Chief, has completed 2 of the three rounds of the trial treatment after completing 4 rounds of chemo and amputation. Hoping for the best with it. He is a young osteosarcoma patient, just 3 years old, so truly hope it works and for all of yours. He is happy and playful despite it all. Best of luck to all of you.
That’s wonderful Carrie! Best wishes to Chief, may he #kickcancersbutt and show the world this disease is not a show stopper! Keep us posted.
Another update on Bowie! She is still with me, doing well and very very happy. In early May she developed 2 soft tissue nodules that were determined to be osteosarcoma. She’s stable, happy, running and playing, with a good appetite, so that works for me. Every day she’s happy and healthy is a true gift. ❤
YAY BOWIE! You showed that soft tissue booger where to stick it! Keep on hoppin pretty girl, we love you.
Just a quick update. Bowie is still with me, doing well and very very happy. In early May she developed 2 soft tissue nodules that were determined to be osteosarcoma. She’s stable, happy, running and playing, with a good appetite, so that works for me. Every day she’s happy and healthy is a true gift. ❤️
Trying to find information on wether it’s worth getting this vaccine for our dog who has not had chemo or amputation
We are currently doing pain meds and some other eastern treatments and giving Zoledronate infusions monthly.. we are able to purchase the vaccine from our specialty veterinary center for $1200 each dose with 3 doses needed but are not sure of the benefit since we have chosen not to amputate or do chemo….any input is helpful but please we are not doing chemo and amputation so do not comment on our choice.. only benefits of the vaccine without chemo and amputation
Peri, this is a judgement-free zone so no worries. We support our members whether or not they have chosen amputation. Have you seen our more current post, “Get the FAQs About the Canine Osteosarcoma Vaccine Facts“? As far as we understand, there are no studies that show the efficacy of the vaccine outside of the original ways in which it was tested, with amputation and chemotherapy.
I’m not sure if this site is still active. My beloved golden doodle was just diagnosed with lymphoma which was discovered when she had to have emergency surgery (that thought she had a blockage). We were told that the chemo would only had a few months to her life so we opted not to proceed with chemo. We are starting her on prednisone but am questioning the dosage. Our holistic vet said to start with 20 mg and increase only if needed and our regular vet said to start with 20 mg twice a day for 7 days and then to decrease to 20 mg once a day. I am so confused and am not sure which protocol to follow. Our Fable will be 13 in October and up until a few weeks ago was super healthy, vibrant and active. Upon meeting Fable everyone thought she was a puppy. She is the sweetest dog and we are also doing holistic therapies such as acupuncture, reiki, and herbal supplements. Any help would be greatly appreciated since we are grief stricken.
So sorry to hear about your pup Debbie. Rest assured, the Tripawds community is still very active! Please consider searching the discussion forums or starting a new topic where you will receive much more feedback and support that you will via comments on this old blog post. For help finding the many Tripawds resources and assistane programs, please start here.
Awesome news! So happy to read that and i must say Nikki is sooooo cute! Love for Nikki, Tessie and the whole family
This was an ”Adorbs” as in ADORABLE story. So lucky she landed with you in that little pink dress. Super duper sweet. Made me smile big time.
OMD!!! PEACHES IS ABSOLUTELY ADORABLE!! AND HER BACK STORY AND HOW SHE GOT TO YOU JUST MELTED MY HEART!❤
Of xourse yoj adore her! How could you not? We adore her and haven’t even technically met her!! But meeting her today through this post definitely makes us all fall jn love with her❤
It was sich a treat reading avout this very, verh special little feisty gal. And her wardrobe…OOOOMMMMDDDD! I’M BLOWN AWAY I kmow she has to be the best dressed tripawd…or quadpawd…dog in the Planets!
Thank yoj so much for taking thee time to let us fet to know Peaches. I think I can safely say we all fell n love with her at the first picture..
Hugx
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
PS….She is a powerful speed runner for sure!!!
A lady in the next county contacted me privately because if my love of Golden’s. She had a puppy born without his right front foot. She thought she could take care of him but recently had unexpected medical things happen. So, I took him in and we love him dearly. He gets around ok, he hops around, goes up and down stairs and even runs like the wind! But I worry about the damage it’s doing to his shoulder and joints and would like more info on maybe getting him a prosthetic. He’s not even a year old so he’s still gonna grow. I am in unknown territory and could use some ideas and help. Thank you!
Barb we highly recommend taking him for an evaluation with an orthopedic vet, who can assess him for areas that may be problematic as he grows. He does sound like an ideal candidate for a prosthetic too. Please check out our blog posts about orthopedic insight for Tripawds and join our discussion forums when you get a chance. We look forward to following along with your journey.
Such a GREAT story of hope!! Beautiful Nikki, keep on keeping on sweet girl! We love inspirational stories like yours!!!
Lots of love!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
There’s a lot of what seems like very helpful advice but this seems to conflict with what I’ve read elsewhere, including on this website: initially your dog’s activity should be very limited. We’re day two after surgery and I hope I’m doing right by my girl by limiting her movement. If she was left to her own devices she would be doing everything she usually does. It’s tough limiting her but I suspect the right thing because the little she’s done (she’s fast and sneaky) seems to have caused her skin to become saggy. I think ultimately it will be fine but it’s not the ideal recovery.
Best wishes for your pup! Please point us to any information you feel may be contradictory. Confinement and moderated actic=vity are definitely key to a quick complete recovery. Then, focus on rehab exercises and conditioning before slowly work up to longer walks. FYI: Walks do not build strength, only stamina. Consider downloading Loving Life on Three legs, or better yet – consult with a certified canine rehab therapist for a professional evaluation and specific exercises to help your dog (once completely healed). Visit a CCRT or CCRP and the Tripawds Foundation can even pay for your first visit! Start here for help finding the many Tripawds Resources an assistance programs.
Sameer, my buddy Gregor and I are in the same predicament. Did you ever get a second opinion or find out?
Hannah, if you do not hear back in these comments, you will find much more help and feedback in the discussion forums or by searching the member blogs. Start here for help finding the many Tripawds Resources an assistance programs.
Nikki poo
That’s so awesome! Nikki, keep fighting and keep on giving the staff a hard time lol.
Whenever I took Murphy to MSU, I knew they were bringing him out to me (there was a half wall, so I couldn’t see him) because I could hear him pulling the staff member down the hall! I could hear his 3 feet on the tile floor scrambling for traction and I knew it was him. Murphy had over 4 years with us. So see, being feisty is a good thing!
Donna
Congrats Nikki keep kicking butt.
hugs
Michelle & Angel Sassy
This gives me so much hope for Rex. He had such a rough start to life he doesn’t deserve to have his best years behind him. I’m so grateful for this study being an option. We leave in about 3 hours to see if Rex gets into the osteosarcoma vaccine trial.
Pray for him.
Best wishes for Trevor! Start here for help finding many more Tripawds resources and assistance programs.
I have a 7 month old basset/lab mix and his bones are growing the wrong way, they are curving in hjs front left leg. The doctor said surgery is the way to go and that he might need to be put on pain meds most of his life to stop arthritis. I would like to amputate his leg so it doesnt make us too much in debt but also so it doesnt make him in any more pain. Do you think i am doing the right thing?
Cheyenne, if you are in doubt, get an opinion from a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and also a canine rehab therapist. Seven months is a young dog, it’s good to get all your information together before making such a big decision. Amputation may or may not solve the problem, in fact it may make things worse. Don’t do anything until you consult with the experts. Good luck and keep us posted.
I foster dogs for Paws and this time around we got a 3 legged( frontamputee)Great Pyrenees cross. They don’t know her background and off to vets on Monday. In the mean time she has dug herself a hole outside to lay in though I have 3 different beds inside. Just nervous for her
Welcome! Please start here for help finding the many Tripawds resources and assistance programs.
OMC!! THE POCTURES ARE ADORAVLE!!!
Thank you so much for sharing Lawri, Muffin and Pangi with us!! I know Muffin and Pangi are watching over you and Lawri❤
Lawri is such an inspirational story of hope! We loooover it around here when cats and dogs blow statistics amd “best guesses” of Vets out of the water!!
Keep on keeping on sweet Lawri! We’re cheering for you
Hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
I need help! I have a newly front leg amputated dog. He’s big. The problem is he can get up on his front leg but his rear legs are not strong enough or something. He can’t all the way up and he falls forward.
Please consult with a certified canine rehab therapist for a professional evaluation, recommended treatment, and exercises and tretching you can do at home to keep your pup fit and strong. FYI: Walks do not build strength, only endurance. Hopefully he may just be overdoing it, but it could be something much worse–so limit any activity until you can get him checked out. Visit a CCRT or CCRP and the Tripawds Foundation can even pay for your first consultation from the Maggie Moo Fund for Tripawd Rehab.
Post in the forums or call the toll free Helpline for much more help than you will receive here in blog comments. Start here for help finding the many Tripawds resources and assistance programs.
My Molly just had her back leg removed and died within 24 hours. She was a healthy beautiful lab who has now past away. The vets office didn’t have anyone with her which I wasn’t aware of. I regret my decision but yet she couldn’t continue with the pain. She had been hit by a car early in life before me and it finally gave her to much pain being fused together with nerve all in tangled. Devastated!! Ask questions, I only asked will she be ok and I was assured not to worry and now my dog is gone forever.
Rebecca, our heart breaks for you, Molly and everyone who loved her. We are very, very sorry for your loss, what a tragedy. Thank you for taking time to share your experience here. We hope that you will consider posting in “Coping with Loss” so that we can honor your sweet girl’s life and hold her even closer to our hearts. You are in our thoughts.
I’m so sorry. I left my girl for 5 min to get help and she died alone. My other two dogs were with her, but I am completely heart broken right now.
Way to go Mary Jane! She certainly looks marvelous and sweet and strong! Love the green bows!! Heroic lady for certain!
My cat just had his left rear leg amputated. They cut it at the hip joint to make recovery faster on him. Would he be able to use a prosthetic that is not a wheel?
So sorry to hear about your cat! Functional prosthetic devices require at least one articulating joint, and ideally two. See our various other videos and podcasts abut prosthetics for more information. Fortunately, the vast majority of trikitties recover quickly and adapt well to life on three legs. Don’t miss the many helpful tips for three legged cats and post in the forums for much more feedback from others.
My dog ringo is getting ready to have this same surgery in a couple months. he got hit by a car and had to lose his front leg and has to have the fho surgery on his back leg on the same side as well. thank you for sharing the story so i can kinda know what to expect with this next surgery because there’s really no info on a 3 leg dog that has to have another leg surgery.
Best wishes for Ringo! Please start here for help finding the many other Tripawds resources and assistance programs.
Sally, we’re sorry we made you cry! 😉 Thank you for allowing us to touch your heart! Stewie is our inspiration for this song obviously, but most importantly all of our fur babies on site inspired us and helped us see that anything is pawsible!!!
David, i know you and Rocky can appreciate the humour in this one!! Thanks for listening!
Miss Holly, you know we appreciate that you love our music! We are honoured by the fact that you have both of our albums! Thank you!
Whispering Purrrrkins, you are one of our inspirations too my friend! You show the world how Catssss adapt to being on three and many more who are here to inspire others! Thank you little big fella for all that you do!
And finally many thanks to our Tripawd Hero’s, Rene, Jim and Wyatt-Ray-Has-Beautiful-Things-To-Say Dawg! If it wasn’t for you and Sensational Spirit Jerry, none of us would be here to honour our Tripawd Hero’s!!
There is nothing more that pleases us and that is the fact that so many of you love this song! Thank you all!
Lots of luvin’ from
Petra, Paul, Super Stu, Spitfire Spikey, Chester Pester, Priss Miss Lily and Always Talking Ted
xxx
BRAVO Allensong!
It is quite a sight to see and wow when we can see what they can do! YES!! We attest CATS adapt as well as dogs and Maintain their dignity! We all thank Tripawds.com for sharing our stories and helping us thru our days! Tripawds.com!! That tune will stick with us furever!!
Thank you, Petra and Paul Love the jingle & the video!! WHOO HOO
Seeing Handsome Stewie and his people and Wyatt singing along !! The boys are not sure what Wyatt is saying, but they were interested:)!
Everyone take a minute to check out the Allensong website you will love their music. I agree this tune barely scratches the surface of their music check it out you won’t be disappointed. I bought both albums & love them.
BRAVO tripawds.com !!
Holly, Mark, Whispering Purrkins & Sexy Saxton
?��?❤️❣️
MARY JANE IS A BEAUTIFUL LADY!!! Absolutely thrilled to know she is doing so well and is so happy! Made my day!
And her lovely, lovely “hat” with such dainty bows…. so darn cute! I’m head over heels in love!❤
You are a wonderful beacon of hope for anyone starting this journey, but especially “mature” pups!
And thanks for your “donation”! Very thoughtful of you!
Love and hugs ❤
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
The line about balancing on two to pee … lol.
Wonderful song!
I really wish I didn’t have to search and find this site. But it gives me a little comfort having come across it. I just came back from the neurologist with my almost 10 year old baby boy Riley. Three weeks ago he seemed to be having pain in his lower back and back legs. Xray only showed arthritis but didn’t explain the pain he seemed to have. Pain meds and muscle relaxer weren’t doing much either. He was crying and whining a lot not wanting to get up to use the bathroom. Yelping if he moved to quickly getting off his bed. Went to an orthopedic surgeon last week and he didn’t find anything. Neurologist visit today and they did an mri and found a tumor in his vertebrae. They said they can’t do a biopsy because it’s too risky, same with surgery because it’s too invasive. So basically no treatment options…just meds and steroids, and possibly radiation, to help his pain. I’m devastated. Was not expecting this at all. I thought he was having pain that would go away or arthritis that could be maintained.
Delfina and Riley, we are so sorry to read about the diagnosis. Radiation therapy (especially Stereotactic Radiation Therapy) can often do a lot for palliative care situations, we hope that it can help Riley enjoy more quality time with you. We are keeping you in our thoughts and sending lots of love. Our hearts go out to you.
Okay, am I the only one who’s a blubbering mess right now??? Not even sure why! I guess when something so beautiful and done wth such heart touches your Soul, sometimes the tears of gratitude flow ❤❤
And then you chuckle about the bragging rights to being able to PEE ON THREE!!
BRAVO ALLENSONG!!! BRAVO!!
Love and appreciation
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
I hope you’re crying hoppy tears Sally! Glad you liked it. Imagine how we felt when we saw them do it live for the first time? Unforgettable!
Rene, Jim and Wyatt Ray-Has-A-Lot-To-Say Dawg
Thank you so much for all that you do!!! This song would never have happened if it wasn’t for your inspawration on Tripawds! This song is just the tip of the iceberg compared to what you guys do for EveryPawdy!!! We are truly grateful for all that you do!!
We had tons of fun with you all and hope to see you again soon. Safe travels my friends!
Lots of Love from Super Stu, Petra, Paul, Spitfire Spikey, Chester McSleepyhead, Bossy Miss Lily and Always Hungry Ted xxxxxxx
p.s. Michelle, I’m really glad you loved it!! 😉
Awwww Petra, you guys are truly amazing. Thank you for making Tripawds so so special!
I loved it. xoxoxox
Michelle & Angel Sassy
Wooohoo! Tell a friend about AllenSong, Michelle!
Wyatt, you realky behaved yiirself and didn’t break the door down!! Good boy! Of course, your Dad probably had you in a headlock!
OTHELLO!! OMC!! WHAT A KISSABLE KITTY!!! You just look so darn cuddly and squishy and loveable!❤
I’m so glad you have such attentive hoomans who know how to treat you like the Royalty that you are!
Look forward to seeing more posts AND pictures, okay? And you really do look like a kitten! Adoravle photos!
Hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Othello is an awesome boy, loves everyone and everything! :).
Othello is an awesome cat, so chill and loves everyone and everything :). We look forward to meeting more tripawd pets!
Othello, Leone and Greg!!! How wonderful to see you star in your own Tripawds Tuesday Blog!!!
We are very fortunate to share the same lake as Brave Othello! Such a Cool McCool Cat!!! You guys seriously, this is one cool dude!!
It was such a pleasure meeting them and we have met again around town, so we will definitely get to see Othello again!
Im sorry you didn’t get to meet Othello officially Wyatt Ray, but you have done a brilliant job of show casing a really cool furmily!
Hopefully Othello can start his own blog page, but it is possible he will make it into Stewies blog again…
Rots of Ruvin from Super Stu, Petra, Paul, Spitfire Spikey, Chester McFiend, Prissy Miss Lily and Gopher Hunting Ted
Xxxxxxx
We just couldn’t believe our good fortune at running into TWO tripawds living in the most beautiful place on the planet. What are the odds?!
My dog had 3 acl surgeries in one leg .He got msrp.He had his leg amputated recently.Now his one remaining back leg which he has had tplo on is clucking and hurting him.My heart is breaking for him.I am now broke.
Theo and family, we are sorry things have been so rough. Please stay strong and lean on us in our Tripawds Discussion Forums. We are here to help with tips and ways you can help him feel better and pain-free. See you there!
You nailed it Rene:
Meeting another Tripawds member is like running into an old friend. When you finally meet in person, you realize that the internet friendships formed in this community are as genuine as you had hoped. The conversation and laughter flows freely as you chat about everything under the sun, but always circling back to the incredible inspiration and love that a Tripawd brings into your life.
And to meet Super Stus’ s pack, in person, in Paridise, well, let’s jist say I can FEEL the loce and connection of the gatherings all the way over here in Virginia!❤
Petra and Allen really have carved out a piece of Paradise to share their lives with eaxh other and the gentle Soul Stu
Hearing Wyatt continue to express his joy at being part of this lovely occasion was so sweet! And seeing him eyeing some of that good food….I was just waiting for him to jump in and help himself!
I kmow this was magical for each of you! Thank you for sharing the magic…..and the love….and the serenity of being in Paridise!
With love and light and appreciation,
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Awww Sally you are so wonderful. We talked about you, were your ears burning? And how we wished you could have been there! One of these days we will do a global Tripawds gathering and pay for everyone to attend!
Great article and very well written. I hope that Bender’s story can help other animals suffering from neuropathic pain pre/post amputation. Bender refused to let the pain win and fought with every cell in his body. I remember the vets were astonished at how much medication it took to knock him out. He was refusing to lay down and kept fighting to get on his paws.
Oh my Gongases! Jim, Rene and Wyatt,
It was such a pleasure meeting you all and the time went by far too quickly!!! You captured some fantastic moments that will be a part of our memory box furever!!
I Ruv, Ruv, Ruv the picture of Wyatt on the dock and Stewie in the woods! They are frameable for sure!!!
The Kitties Ruv their mouses and Stewie Ruvs his Noisy Hedgie, the other one is his good Pull Hedgie! 😉 Thank you so very much for all of your kind gifts and even more so for coming by and visiting us! It was truly and honour to have our Tripawd Stars hang out with us! We are absolutely looking forward to sharing a glass of wine with you on your trip back South!
Much love and many hugs to you all and please tell Wyatt that i really do Ruv his singing voice. He can become a part of AllenSong anytime!!!
Safe Travels and Hoppy Trails
❤️❤️❤️
OK well that photo you got of Wyatt “singing” is totally priceless! Now that I think about it, he would make a good backup singer for Allensong. OK he’s yours for the next tour! 😉
Glad you and Paul enjoyed our company. I hope your hearing has recovered!
You are so welcome for everything, it was great to meet you in person and a concert to boot! WOW!
My almost 2 year old border collie has a nasty break in her back left leg. At first it was a simple fracture, but 7 weeks later, she somehow completely broke the same leg. There is a surgery that can fix it, but it’s so expensive and I don’t know how I can keep her calm for another 12-16 weeks post surgery. If anything were to go wrong after surgery, I don’t think I would have the funds to help her and have to euthanize her.
After ANOTHER emergency vet visit because of getting past her E collar and now causing a nasty infection on her toes, the ER vet and I have decided that amputation is probably the best course of action, but my main vet doesn’t agree since it isn’t “necessary”. So now I am fighting this horrible guilt that I’m planning on taking her leg and it isn’t as a last resort. She’s so young, incredibly active, and I can’t put her through a surgery just to be completely restricted again, and then be financially strapped myself (we’re talking about a $5K+ surgery here..). My relationship with my husband is also suffering from this stress – we’re getting ready to buy a home, and a new car.
Am I doing the right thing going the amputation route? Am I being selfish? Like I said, this has already been such a difficult, long road, and it feels like Cersei (my border collie) is also at the end of her rope.
Sorry to hear about your situation! You will find MUCH more helpful feedback and support in the forums than you will via comments on this old blog post. Start here for help finding the many Tripawds Resources and assistance programs or feel free to call the toll-free Tripawds Helpline anytime.
PS: Far too many times we hear from new members who put there dogs through multiple painful expensive surgeries trying to “save the leg” who only end up amputating later anyway. Look at it this way…you are not removing the leg, you are removing the pain. And you are not doing it to her, you are doing it for her.
Thank you! I went ahead and created a profile. This whole thing is overwhelming to me, but just reading these forums and how supportive this foundation is has put my heart at ease.
The next hurdle is stopping shelters from spaying and neutering pups while they are still just babies! Certainly understand the intention, but there has to be some balance. Early spaying and then bombarding shelter dogs automatically vaccine after vaccine….jist not in the best jnterest of the individual dog. Again, certainly understand the intent.
Thanks Dr Kay, for all you are doing to help enlighten and educate
I totally agree Sally. I couldn’t even begin to address this other issue in this article, but I’m betting that Dr. Kay will certainly do it in her blog. I want our future dogs to come from rescues or shelters, and I have no idea how we will be able to adopt one who isn’t spayed or neutered. I hope this is all figured out by the time that day rolls around (and if Wyatt Ray has any say in that, which he does, it won’t happen for a long, long time!).
Thanks I am interested, can you contact me?
Please read all the information above, download the FAQs sheet, and contact Pawopedic as directed in the instructions.
What if my dog isn’t visibly draining at all? The scratching is the issue for me.
Prasia, ask your vet about a topical solution like Microcyn. You can also check out these wound care tips in our blog.
I have a 4 yr. old chocolate lab that had a TPLO on his left rear leg that went awesome. Five months later he had to have a TPLO on his right rear leg, it has been a nightmare. Nothing went right. He developed a seroma, tore a meniscus and finally has tested positive for MRSA. Two years later, after multiple rounds of antibiotics and flushing of the joint, the ortho doc says the bone looks septic and it’s bone on bone. His leg has atrophied a great deal as well. She is recommending amputation of the right rear leg. He has been limping for 2 years and we know he is in pain. He is also a retriever that loves to duck hunt. It is killing me and my husband to do this to him. I know it will save his life. He is a large dog… 95lbs and not fat. My main concern is that he will have one back leg that is already compromised, having had a TPLO as well. The Doc says it has healed well and is well muscled, his hips look pretty good too. What if the hopping causes problems to the remaining leg….. anyone dealt with this?
Cheryl we are so sorry about your poor pup, and you! What an ordeal. If you haven’t already, do seek a second opinion with a board-certified orthopedic specialist. Yes, many members have dealt with this same situation. I encourage you to post in our Hopping Around or Beyond Cancer Discussion Forums and tell us more. We are here to help.
My dog was just involved in an accident yesterday. After seeing the xrays the best option we have is to have his left rear leg amputated. This is not an easy decision for us to make. I just want to make sure I am doing the best thing for our pet. They can do surgery to repair the fracture in his hip but that will lead to awful arthritis and would put him in more pain. We made the decision and I just feel horrible for everything he is going through. I am told that after amputations dogs adapt very quickly and will get back to their happy selves in no time.
Ali, we are so sorry about your pup, but glad he survived the accident. Please don’t feel bad, you are doing the best you can for him. Follow your heart, you can’t go wrong. And do come over to the Tripawds Discussion Forums so we can help ease your worries OK? You have a whole community waiting for you. All the best to you and your boy, we send all our best for a speedy recovery.
My 10 year old Westie cross daschund had all of the sudden gone blind and had been diagnose with brain tumor in Feb this year. Vet says she has to be on prednisone for the rest of her life and no other operations can be done (as the tumor is right between her brain and eyes). Within a week, the side effects took place, such as increased in appetite and frequent urination. But her sight regained. About 1.5 months into prednisone, she started to have pot bellied so I reduced her dosage by half. And now, 3 months into prednisone, she is having muscle loss on all limbs, unable to walk properly and blind again. I am in such dillema as I don’t know if I should continue giving her prednisone or drop completely. Because prednisone is really having very bad side effects on her. But if she stop taking it, her tumor will grow, and we should expect seizures soon. Any idea…?
Best wishes for your pup! Please consult with your veterinarian regarding your best options at this point or consider seeking another professional opinion.
Yay for Eleanor! Warms our hearts seeing her so happy now and we are thankful she has found her loving, furever home 🙂
What a wonderful, generous gift. I wish my dog Thomas was a candidate but unfortunately his imputation included the entire left leg including shoulder 🙁 Good luck to all candidates!
GRINNING EAR TO EAR OVER HERE!!! LOVING THIS UPDATE ON WARRIOR BENDER!!! And make no mistake avput it, Bener is one tuff Warrior Bulldog! And a standing ovation to his hoomans who had the strength and determination to stay the course!
I am sooooo happy to see our Bender lookjng cute as ever and feeling great! Sich an inspirational story of hope and never giving up!
Love and hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
So Happy for Bender! Great to have all that behind you all.
Bender you ROCK STAR!! Just as handsome as ever, I am so glad you are doing well 🙂 You put a smile on my face every time I see that handsome mug of yours, way to go!!
Hugs,
Jackie and Huckleberry