Today begins our journey in the tripawd life of our dog, Porter. He is almost 13 years old and has failing eyesight due to a hereditary disorder. He has adapted to the loss of eyesight and still loves life. A little over a month ago he began limping, holding up his left paw but never showing any other signs of pain. He gradually lost his appetite and slept more and more. Our vet thought these symptoms were due to arthritis and gave him the anti-inflammatory medicine, rimadyl which helped for a short time. Two weeks later we asked for a refill which again relieved his limping for a short time. Another week passed and now our vet investigated further taking x-rays and giving him a physical exam as well. Sadly, the X-ray indicated early stage bone cancer. Several days later after blood work, chest x-rays and an ultrasound everything was clear of metastases and we were faced with the decision of whether to subject an elderly dog to this kind of surgery and rehabilitation. The alternative was dismal and in the end we opted for amputation of Porter’s left leg from the shoulder. Today is the day. We are waiting for the call from the orthopedic surgeon telling us the results of the surgery. Waiting is the hardest part.
Welcome! We look forward to following Porter’s progress. Search the forums and blogs and you’ll find plenty of senior dog success stories. Best wishes for a speedy recovery!
I hope that Porter does great! I just joined this site last night; and I found a book on Amazon called “without regret” and the people who reviewed it said it had tips for living with a dog with 3 legs. It’s a heart wrenching decision; I just made my decision last night to go ahead with the amputation. My mastiff Oscar has his bone cancer in his right front leg. I was adament initially-no amputation- but as you stated: the alternative was increasing pain and his leg most probably fracturing. Someone told me I was putting “all your human emotions into it” and Oscar wasn’t going to hate me forever or wake up and go”OH NO, MY LEG IS GONE!” You know your dog and you know that he still enjoys life. Please let us know how Porter is and keep us posted! Lora, Oscar and Gus (other mastiff)
Will write more when get off work. Jjst want you to know we all understand thks incredibly tough time and the fears and worries. Sl sorry you were faced with this decision but you have come t tne best place in te worl for support and info.
Lots of good success stories with senior dogs……Can’t wait for “Sam” mmrocker to chime n! You will be so pleased with that senior’s continuing story
Backlater……you are not alone…..
Sallh and Happy Hannah
Welcome to Tripawds!
Come visit the chat if you want to talk. There are usually several of us in there at any given time. We all have a different experience but we are all here to support you and answer any questions we can.
We look forward to hearing more about Porter’s journey soon!
Much love,
Julianne and JJ
Thanks to all my fellow tripod bloggers for your comments and encouragement. I’m so glad I am part of this helpful website.