Amputation?

[lindsi]

My dad's dog was hit by a car about 4 weeks ago and his back leg was broken and the bone went out throught the skin well we took him to the vet and he had been being treated had a splint and I had been taking him once a week for him to change the bandage and the vet told me yesterday that it just is not healing he has been taking antibiotics but there is still alot of drainage from the wound so he recommended that the leg be amputated and it is being done today. I feel so bad for him but the vet feels that it is the best thing for him. So anyone have experience with a dog who has just had a leg amputated I am just trying to get myself prepared for bringing him home and anything I might need to make him more comfortable and to get used to only having three legs. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

[dobermom]

What kind of dog is he? How old?
A woman I work with has a "tripod" Jack Russel, he gets along like he has all 4 legs. I think in general dogs adjust very well to 3 legs.

[Dax]

I'm so sorry to hear about your dad's dog. I don't have any first hand experience but know some dogs with only 3 legs. I would suggest that you not try to baby them too much once the wound is healed.

Good luck & well wishs for a speedy recovery.

[mara]

From what I've seen dogs are very adaptable. They have 4 legs--great, they have 3 legs, great. I've never seen it slow them down too much once they get use to it. If it hasn't healed in this amount of time it may never heal and just cause him more problems.

Let us know how he's doing.

[lindsi]

Originally Posted by dobermom

What kind of dog is he? How old?

His mom was a border collie don't know who the dad is and he is 3 years old. he weighs around 55-60lbs. Do I have to do anything to help him walk at first or should I let him learn on his own. I am supposed to call the vets later this afternoon to see how the surgery went. I belive they will be keeping him all weekend and I will pick him up on Monday.

[rutylr]

Here is a site that has lots of info for you
http://www.oscardog.it/English/oscar_en.htm

[lindsi]

Well I just spoke with my vet and he had his surgery this morning and everything went well they want to keep him overnight and I will be picking him up tomarrow.

[2ndchance]

We have many amputees in our dog therapy group and they all do well. It's just gonna be hard for you to see him like that but he will adapt well.

[CherylO]

I have a working kelpie who was hit by a car and split her elbow in half. She had a front leg amputated and was back to almost normal very quickly. She cannot move as fast, or go as far but she even still works sheep. It took a while for her to get her fitness back. We keep a close eye on her weight so as to not put too much strain on her remaining front leg and shoulder.

[Lessica Jake]

I haven't had a dog with an amputation, but when Bailey broke her foot, our vet joked that dogs are born with three legs and a spare. They get along just fine one short.