Limb amputation is a huge life change for a pet to experience but in many cases it’s the right thing to do. In this article, our vet Rayana talks about the considerations around such an operation and reassures owners that life for a three-legged pet can be just as happy as it was before, with the right care and attention.
Florrie the whippet is making a speedy recovery following front leg amputation last month. She has happily adjusted to life on three legs and is back to full speed ahead. She is now enjoying monthly laser therapy sessions (pictured below) and longer walks as part of her ongoing rehabilitation programme.
Although it involves major surgery, limb amputation is designed to make your pet’s life more comfortable and will only take place if your vet thinks the procedure can achieve this.
Most pets happily adjust to life on three legs with your help and following your vet’s advice. In fact, they’ll often be so busy running around and feeling better again that they hardly notice anything’s amiss.
How will my pet cope with amputation surgery?
Although it is very difficult to think about at first, limb amputation could do a pet who is suffering from chronic pain a lot of good and is often the best option for pets with injuries from traumatic accidents, nerve damage or for those suffering from serious diseases such as bone cancer.
Of course, losing a limb makes normal movement difficult and your pet will have to learn how to make up for it before they become their usual, bouncy selves again. However, with time, most can compensate for the changes in weight distribution and learn to walk and even run again.
Making a difficult decision
Seeing a content and happy dog like Florrie on three legs is a reminder that limb amputation doesn’t have to be the end of the world. Instead, consider it as the beginning of a new life for your pet, a positive option that can extend their life and remove pain they had before. Surgery will only take place if it is beneficial, so you should know that if this happens to your pet, you are doing the kindest thing you can.
However, it’s understandable that electing to have your pet’s limb amputated is a difficult decision. The surgery, recovery and prognosis (depending on the reason for the amputation) should be discussed in detail with your vet, as it is a big decision to make. Larger or heavier pets and those with pain in other joints may not cope as well with amputation as slim, small pets and in cases of cancer the amputation may not be a curative procedure.
Helping your pet adapt
If you and your vet have agreed that amputation is the best option for your pet, you should start thinking about their aftercare and how they’re going to adapt to their new life. Your pet needs help and support not just straight after their surgery, but when they’re mobile again too.
For your pet’s health and happiness, keep these tips in mind as well as following your vet’s advice:
- Follow your vet’s aftercare instructions carefully and ask questions if there is anything you are unsure of.
- These instructions will likely suggest keeping your pet confined after the operation. Make them comfortable, and keep them mentally stimulated in safe, fun ways.
- Don’t encourage your pet to jump, no matter how much they want to.
- Pets need to build strength in their remaining limbs, so ask your vet about a slowly increasing exercise program and referring them to a veterinary physiotherapist.
- Ask your vet about alternative forms of exercise including swimming, which might be easier on your pet (and still loads of fun).
- Your pet may find it more difficult to get onto their favourite furniture, such as beds, so provide ramps or steps and make sure their food, water and bed are easily accessible without the need to jump.
- Keep a close eye on your pet’s weight, as weight gain places more strain on their other legs and makes it much harder to cope. This is very important, as your pet may be more prone to gaining weight since their exercise is reduced.
- Other pets may be upset initially by the change in their companion. Reintroduce your pet slowly and keep an eye on things.
- It is possible for pets to suffer phantom pains in removed limbs, so contact your vet if your pet seems to be in discomfort as further treatment may be required.
Many three-legged dogs like Florrie are enjoying life as much as ever, but that doesn’t make it any easier a decision for you and your pet. Limb amputation may be the right option for some, but not such a good choice for others; consider your decision and talk it through with your vet.
If amputation is the answer to your pet’s problem, then remember that in many cases with patience and rehabilitation your pet will learn to cope and be as happy as ever.
Follow us on Facebook or Instagram to get the latest updates.
