I need some advice, my lovely dog Teddy who is 5 has been diagnosed with cancer and he is going to have his R rear leg amputated. Can anyone tell me how their dog has coped through sugery and after and how they have adapted to life. I need to ease my mind and prepare myself, after all he is my baby. Thanks xx
Hi Teddy, we are so sorry that you got the bad news. What kind of cancer is it? Do your doctors know yet?
You are such a young pup, you will bounce back and go on to have a good life, I can FEEL it!
My best advice is to check out our Required Reading List and our ebook, Three Legs & a Spare. AND visit our discussion forums for more help from people who have been there. You’ll find lots of help in the Forums so don’t be a stranger OK?
Remember pawrents, stay pawsitive and believe that Teddy will be fine, and he will believe it too. Now more than ever you need to be a strong pack leader.
Worried ~
My precious 7 year old was diagnosed last month resulting in rear leg amputation. I was devastated thinking his quality of life would be impaired. Of course we take things slower and he relaxes alot more, but after two weeks he was tackling the stairs, h can jump up on the bed , and we take short walks. I cant imagine life without my Bruiser, I know i should prepare myself, but even having the time I get will be well worth it. Hope this helps! Rachel
I’m so sorry to hear about Teddy’s diagnosis. Butchey was 6 1/2 at his diagnosis and he bounced back fine, even after a rough infection post-op.
The whole process of canine amputation is rougher for us than it is for them. They do amazing. Tripawds.com is a great place to find help and support as you journey through this new chapter.
The first 2 weeks post surgery are the roughest. Then after the med haze wears off, we found little things every day that showed us Butchey was returning to his normal self – albeit a new normal.
One item I would definitely recommend is the Ruff wear harness. We found it indispensable for our amputation/Tripawd process. We still use it 15 months later.
Please post some pics of Teddy. We wish you the best as you start into this. It is rough in the beginning, but you will make lots of friends here at Tripawds. Keep us updated on his progress!
Butchey Hudson’s Family
Many of us know the horrible feeling that comes with getting a cancer diagnosis and having an amputation suggested. It is quite overwhelming in the beginning.
The required reading list and ebook really helped me in those first few days of grappling with this, so definitely check that out.
Everyone has had unique experiences getting through surgery, but a common theme is that the first couple of weeks after surgery are pretty difficult, but then things usually start to get better and you will see your dog come back to you. It is an amazing feeling to see them relieved of the pain caused by the cancer.
I know it is really scary…I struggled so much with the decision, but many folks here will tell you this – there is nothing in the world like being a parent to a tripawd. It is truly an amazing experience – you will be amazed, inspired, and incredibly proud of your Teddy.
Aw Teddy, you are a lucky little man, to have such a loving Mommy.
He will adapt, and in fact he will thrive. Lots of love, and a few changes to his everyday schedule, and he will amaze you.
I also recommend the ruffwear harness. It is a great tool for tripawds. And the booties may help too (PAWZ)
Try to stay positive, and not to worry too much. Believe it or not, he will figure it out on his own.
Hugs to you both.
Fenway and Mama Sue