New Territory
I’m so glad to have found this site. It’s inspirational!
My situation is a little different than most. My dog, Poko, is a 6 year old black lab mix. He had a torn ACL (right rear leg) almost a year ago. I tried conservative therapy first, and anti-inflammatories, and laser treatment. The laser treatment helped tremendously, but Poko reinjured himself last week. This time was the worst ever. He has had set backs, but not like this. He is unable to put his leg down at all. He’s been functioning as a 3 legged hop-along dog, off and on for the last year.
For many different reasons, I’ve decided to amputate his leg, rather than have reconstructive knee surgery. This was an extremely difficult decision, and has come with a lot of guilt (on my part), dismay (from others), and fear. I chose the amputation because I was never able to fully restrict his activities, which would be needed if he had knee surgery. Poko is like my shadow, he follows me from room to room and has always been a very active dog.
I feel that this will be the best for him, as far as recovery to a normal life. My boyfriend is shocked that I would do this. Other people seem to think that amputation should be the last resort. I agree, and disagree. Torn by the philosophical issues versus the practical issues.
My vet was great. We’ve been discussing our options over the last year, changing things as we go along. He’s supportive of my decision and understands that the recovery process following knee surgery would be too challenging. He’s helping us get through this transition.
Poko’s ampuation will be in 2 days, on Friday. I’m afraid, hopeful, sad, and somehow, relieved (that this will be over soon).
Again, I’m glad to have found this site. The information is excellent, and will help us get through this.
November 9th, 2011 at 9:22 pm
Be confident that you are doing what you think is best for your pup. You know him best. Don’t listen to those folks who are ‘dismayed’ by your choice. They’ve probably never known a tripawd before. Tripawds are awesome!
Abby can do pretty much everything she did before although there are a few exceptions. She can’t walk as far in our neighborhood, but she does great running at the beach; we don’t go on hikes anymore because she gets too tired; she doesn’t like to wrestle as much with other pups, but still loves to play and chase them. Once you get through the surgery and the recovery period, your tripawd will begin to amaze you!
Rest up before the surgery – sleep can be in short supply that first week and when you get sleep deprived everything starts to seem bad, and you might think “what have i done?” So, don’t go there – just stay positive and know that you’ll get through the recovery! (It will probably be harder on you than on Poko…)
Looking forward to reading about Poko’s progress; best of luck on Friday,
Jackie, Abby’s mom
November 9th, 2011 at 9:27 pm
And we’re glad you found us! Thanks for sharing Poko’s story, we look forward to following his progress.
November 9th, 2011 at 11:26 pm
pictures, we need pictures!!!! paws crossed for successful surgery and speedy recovery. poko will feel so much better when the pain is gone. trust your heart and your dog!
charon & gayle
November 10th, 2011 at 1:22 am
Best wishes and luck! You are doing what you believe is best for your pup…so many doggies never even have that chance.
November 10th, 2011 at 2:46 am
Thanks for all the words of encouragement.
November 11th, 2011 at 2:09 am
Glad you found Tripawds!
Keeping good thoughts for Poko’s surgery. Keep us posted!
Nancy & Butchey
November 11th, 2011 at 2:11 am
Good luck to you tomorrow! Rest up, and post some pictures, please!
November 16th, 2011 at 4:42 am
Rest assured that going with your gut instinct is the best decision anyone can make.
Nobody understands this decision until they’ve walked this path, so don’t be too mad at them. What I can tell you is that we have seen lots of failed attempts at reconstructive surgeries, and many members have become Tripawds for ACL repairs and other such surgeries that went wrong.
When nobody seems to understand why you proceeded, fear not, you have a whole community ready to lean on. We’re glad you’re here.