I looked for information thru Google searches, talking to people, and the Tripawds forums. This turned out to be one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make.
My decision to amputate was complicated by my Pooch’s size and weight. The front legs carry more of the burden, 60 to 70% more of the weight. A lot of people told me “if he were a younger dog” and others relate how well they have seen Tripawds perform. He had a mast cell tumor removed with good margins, and he has lymphoma which still requires treatment. Removing the leg removes the Grade 3 Spindle Cell Sarcoma that has made him lame. He is in considerable pain; I will have to put him down soon because of pain. To remove the pain the leg must be removed.
I decided with his irrepressible enthusiasm and hard-headed nature I am pretty sure he will adapt to the change. Why not give him the chance? Remove the pain and let him carry on.
I was concerned he would be vulnerable to other dogs. Loose dogs are a common occurrence in spite of leash laws. He is neutered and gets challenged. Most dogs are friendly sniffers, and the more aggressive ones decide its best to respect him. I don’t think that will change and I don’t think we are going to wander off on long hikes anytime soon either.
Finally, would I be able to put in the time, effort, and expense to carry on with this, to make the changes to accommodate him as a Tripawd? He has been with me for 10 years thru good times and bad times and has been my most loyal friend. I am not ready to part with him. So I began to look at it as another adventure for us to pursue together.
