Leg Amputation for Pets
Considering the amputation of a pet’s limb is a big deal. Imagining your beloved pet short one appendage can be overwhelming. Most people don’t realize, however, how happy many pets are after their leg amputation.
Why amputate a pet’s limb?
There are several reasons that a pet may require a limb amputation:
- Severe trauma
- Cancer
- Debilitating pain due to arthritis
While it is a drastic recommendation, it is not one that is made without thought. It is so much better for most pets to be happy minus a limb than be miserable with all four. Pets may face euthanasia or the spread of an aggressive cancer if the limb is not removed.
The benefits of leg amputation
Many owners are quick to say no, but the reality is that so many pets do better after surgery than they ever did before. There is a recovery period, as after any surgery, but once they are healed pets are often able to run, jump, and play like never before. Casual observers often may not even notice these pets are missing a leg.
At Oakland Veterinary Referral Services we have performed many successful amputations for a variety of reasons. If your veterinarian has asked you to consider this as part of a treatment plan for your pet, we encourage you to give it serious thought.
Our vets are full of heartwarming success stories after this procedure. In particular, check out Vadar’s story. Vadar faced a grim prognosis without a leg amputation after he was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a particularly aggressive type of cancer. We will bet that you can’t help but smile watching him run around on three legs.
If you are facing the decision of whether to amputate, feel free to consult with us [link to Contact page] for advice and help in making your choice. Also, consider checking out Tripawds, an online community and support group for pet owners with three legged pets.
