{"id":4247,"date":"2020-10-20T11:12:52","date_gmt":"2020-10-20T15:12:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pawboost.com\/blog\/?p=4247"},"modified":"2023-09-25T12:16:08","modified_gmt":"2023-09-25T16:16:08","slug":"why-three-legged-dogs-can-lead-happy-long-lives","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pawboost.com\/blog\/why-three-legged-dogs-can-lead-happy-long-lives\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Three-Legged Dogs Can Lead Happy, Long Lives"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

This article is contributed by guest writer, Emily G. (Author of <\/em>Cattail Gardens<\/em><\/a>).<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Three-Legged Dogs Can Lead Happy, Long Lives<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Just like with\nhumans, removing a dog\u2019s leg is major surgery, and the decision to do so is not\nundertaken lightly by the veterinarian. In most cases, the vet believes the\namputation will help, not hinder your pet by removing a limb that is the cause\nof pain and suffering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most dogs\u2014and other animals as well\u2014can adjust to three-legged mobility and go on to lead happy lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo Credit: Lisa Fotios via Pexels<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Healing after surgery<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When a vet recommends\nan amputation, it can be tough on the pet\u2019s family as well. In most cases,\ninjury, infection, or illness (such as cancer) mandates amputation, and this\ncan be an emotional time for all. Families need to pull together and help the\npet adjust to life on three paws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Right after the surgery is usually the most restrictive time for your pet. It\u2019s recommended to make a comfortable space for your pet and stay alert for orthopedic problems or pain in your pup too; in most cases<\/a>, a proper orthopedic dog bed will aid your dog\u2019s recovery much faster than fluffy pillows and their usual soft bed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dispense pain\nmedication as instructed and follow the vet\u2019s advice to minimize pain and\nensure fast healing. Do not stop the pain killers until the vet gives the okay,\neven if your pet no longer seems to need them. Always finish antibiotic\nprescriptions to achieve efficacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When your dog feels ready, he or she will make attempts to walk. It is difficult for the dog to learn how to move and accomplish things in the way they did on four legs, but they are naturally resilient and will soon get moving. There may be post-surgical pain that breaks through the pain medication, which can slow the mobility learning process. With care and patience, it won\u2019t be long before your dog is up and feeling happy again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo Credit: Linoleum Magazine via Unsplash<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t avoid exercise<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your vet will give you instructions about how to help your dog become mobile and when they will be ready for exercise. Typically, once your dog has learned how to get around with three legs, they are capable of limited activity. Take them for walks or hikes<\/a> to help them build muscle and gain confidence in their new way of getting around. If it\u2019s a small dog, resist the urge to carry him or her around the house. Your puppy needs to learn they are still capable and independent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

All dogs need\nexercise, but for an amputee, it is critical. Long after surgery and exacerbated\nby weight, pain or joint problems set in. Tripawds cannot carry around extra\npounds; though no dog should.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is no need to\nbe protective\u2014let your dog play, run, or walk as much as they like. If your dog\nbegins to tire or feel pain, he or she will let you know by lying down,\npanting, whining, or trying to return home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While walking, let your dog choose the speed. Don\u2019t drag them along to try to hurry them. Be sensitive to their needs. If you both usually take a long walk in the evening, for instance, break it up and start with two or three short walks spread out through the day. If swimming<\/a> is an option, check with the vet first, but once you have the okay, this is an excellent exercise for any dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo Credit: Stefan Stefancik via Pexels<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adopting a tripawd<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019ve seen a\ntripawd at the local shelter but are concerned about your ability to take care\nof them properly, don\u2019t be! Most tripawds act as though they are entirely\nunaware of their disability and are actually great for those with limited\nmobility themselves, such as senior citizens<\/a>. If the amputation is\nrecent, there may be some post-surgical wound care, but other than that your\nnew three-legged best friend is ready to become a loving, grateful part of your\nfamily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

All rescue pets need time to acclimate<\/a> to their new home. Let your new family member explore the house and yard at their pace. There are new things to experience, and it might be the first time they\u2019ve been inside a home, allowed to jump up on a couch, had a fenced yard\u2014don\u2019t pressure them to do anything too quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When a\nwheelchair is needed<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If your pet seems to be struggling with mobility, speak to your vet. He or she may recommend a wheelchair, especially in the case of much older pets who may also be suffering from arthritis<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wheelchairs are\nexpensive, so take the time to shop carefully and measure carefully. If you\nhave questions, phone the manufacturer and they will help you choose the best\nmodel. Even though a wheelchair might be the best solution, not all pets like\nthe contraptions, see the story about Duncan below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Duncan, the two-legged boxer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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