Amputation

382 Views 9 Replies 6 Participants Last post by tray, 2 mo ago

gpb369

Discussion Starter · 2 mo ago

Hello. Our 10.5 year old Pitbull Keila was just diagnosed with cancer in her left hind leg. The vet is saying that the best way to ensure the disease does not spread is to amputate it. She weighs about 83 pounds and is in good shape, but does anyone know how long the rehab is, and what the quality of life might be for her after her leg is gone? We are heartsick.😞

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BZOO

· #2 · 2 mo ago

Quality of life should be as it is now. They adjust so quickly and don't feel sorry for themselves. If any mobility issues due arise, there are doggie wheel chairs.
Hang tough, she'll be fine with your love and support.

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JoKealoha

· #3 · 2 mo ago

OOF! that's a tough one.
at that weight and age, i would be concerned with a couple things. the load bearing demand on her good leg will put strain on her opposite hip and knee. you should incorporate some massage therapy to keep her limber and flexible. ice when she is sore.
CCL injuries are more common in larger dogs that have 2 good knees. with only 1 leg i would pull back a little on running and jumping and general playtime.
think about trimming her weight down.
depending on where the amputation is located (above or below the knee) a prosthetic may be an option. they are SUPER expensive but sometimes you can get a sponsorship.

emotionally, it's important to keep her mind occupied. too much downtime and they can get depressed. more car rides! more toys. more games. more social interactions. all of that.
let us know how it goes. GOOD LUCK! prayers up for Keila.

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BZOO

· #4 · 2 mo ago

Wow, I never would have thought of a prosthetic, very cool that's an option.

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jttar

· #5 · 2 mo ago

Thank you both BZOO and Jo!

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FullCircle

· #6 · 2 mo ago

What kind of cancer is this?

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gpb369

Discussion Starter · #7 · 2 mo ago

FullCircle said:
What kind of cancer is this?

Osteosarcoma

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tray

· #8 · 2 mo ago

FullCircle said:
What kind of cancer is this?

gpb369 said:
Hello. Our 10.5 year old Pitbull Keila was just diagnosed with cancer in her left hind leg. The vet is saying that the best way to ensure the disease does not spread is to amputate it. She weighs about 83 pounds and is in good shape, but does anyone know how long the rehab is, and what the quality of life might be for her after her leg is gone? We are heartsick.😞

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FullCircle

· #9 · 2 mo ago

gpb369 said:
Osteosarcoma

I think you should get another opinion. This kind of cancer is not curable. Do some more reading and maybe talk to a specialist.

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tray

· #10 · 2 mo ago

Thank you, but there are numerous types of cancer, MST, Lyphomas, Sarcomas, etc. We are dealing with this on our 15 year old Pitty. Swollen lump left front shoulder. No other lymph nodes involved at this time. Without proper blood work, biopsy, etc., to pinpoint what has caused this, it will be difficult to prescribe a treatment and/or Protocol for options (6 or more) that involve drugs and chemotherapy. Each treatment has its downsize.
It would sad to amputate and then find out shortly that the cancer is spread through the system anyhow.
I agree with others....get another evaluation and opinion. The cost will be worth it.
Good Luck

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