Amputation Of A Limb – Helping Your Dog Adjust To 3 Limbs

Depending upon the cause of your dog’s amputation surgery, and whether or not there was an underlying disease or other condition at fault, you are going to have to work with your veterinarian or other specialist about rehabilitating the animal so that he can get back to good health and emotional stability.

Should I Exercise My Dog Now That He Only Has 3 Legs?

Most often, dog owners are going through the experience of their lovable pet having an amputation for the first time, and hopefully the last. What is common among all of these people is the thought that they should not exercise their do once it is back home and getting used to living with three legs. This could not be further from the truth.

Amazingly, within a week or two, dogs pretty much forget that they are missing a limb altogether.  These doggie “tripods” (as they are called)  can jump around, run, swim, play, and even climb stairs just as good as other dogs.  They adapt very quickly to getting used to only three limbs.

Not only is it a delight to see your dog back to normal, with the exception of a hop or a limp (of which the animal does not notice after a while),  watching this quick healing process take place is also an uplift to your emotional experience as well.

Take Care And Watch Out For Your Dog

Although your dog will bounce back to normal as soon as possible, and with vigorous energy and excitement, you still need to take a bit of care and use caution in order to help him prevent injuries, at least at first.

For example, dog amputees that have a prosthetic leg installed face great danger when it comes to slippery floors.  This hazard can cause your dog to have a terrible fall or possibly knock the prosthetic limb off in the process, if he has one. To prevent this from happening it is wise that you replace any hard surfaces in the house with rugs or better yet, have a carpet installed for long-term security.

Another situation to keep an eye on is your dog’s remaining healthy limbs, especially the leg which is opposite of the amputated one. Dogs can live a long and healthy life with only three legs, but of course if another of his healthy limbs starts to decline in any form or fashion, this can cause a serious mobility problem.

What you need to do is make sure that his other limbs are strong enough to hold the extra weight.  Watch his movements on a daily basis and make sure that he is not getting slower or weaker.  Should this happen, you must use a harness if necessary, anything that can help remove the extra weight. It is better to utilize a harness and keep his healthy legs strong instead of creating a situation where the dog will be immobile for the rest of his life.