Our Hero (a 5 yr old rottie) is just 6 days post-amputation. He did great – in very good spirits and getting around well the first 4 days but on day 5, he crashed pretty hard. He wasn’t able to stand at all and his eyes, oh my, he looked too far gone. We took his temperature and it was ok, just around 100. We fed him a little later and he ate just fine, and that seemed to perk him up and out of his stooper. Now, at 10:30 p.m. on 1-14-10, and for most of today, he’s been his old self.
As older and wiser people than us have commented on this website, the weeks after the amputation surgery are a roller coaster and full of emotion. In one way, it is a wonderful ride which is made better and more comfortable with this forum. On the other hand, we’re dealing with life and death of our most loved and precious friends. They really do teach us so much in life.
Hi Hero,
Glad you found this site, lots and lots of good information here.
Yea- you have to hang on for the first couple of weeks- but it does get better, usually a lot better after the meds are done, and the sutures and or staples are out. I think it is a good sign that you see some of Hero’s old self from time to time.
Continued good luck-
Karen and the pug girls
The first 2 weeks definitely have alot of ups and downs… Try to keep Hero warm, as a temp of 100 is low for a dog… He needs alot of rest while he recovers, good nutrition, and make sure he drinks… But most of all, just love and spoil him as much as possible!
Angel Jake’s Mom
Oh my…I’ve started the blog but had to read your’s first. Our Kangal/Mastiff mix is getting her right rear leg amputated Tuesday…just cannot afford the 8k reconstruction of her knee (birth defect or severe luxating patella? – still researching it and making sure we’re doing the right thing). It did not manifest itself until a couple of months ago. She’s 1 yo and the best solution for us and after seeing this website, feeling much better about it. I took an oath to care for my dog, I will not put her down unless she’s in pain and the ortho surgeon could not promise anything, ie success rate, pain level, re-injury or hip complications down the road – it appears it began there. I’m so sorry you had such a scare, it hurts your heart – how well I know. I have a replaced hip and it hurts me and makes me somewhat sick to my stomach. Thank you for sharing, I’ll be needing you in a few days…keep in touch. “Kanga (Kangal/Mastiff)
Please give Hero a hug for us! After Holly’s first surgery she wasn’t drinking much and the vet gave her an injection with fluids just to be sure she didn’t dehydrate. Holly won’t eat ice cubes, but if Hero likes them they can be a good way to keep him hydrated. Jake’s mom is right – rest and love are always good. Holly had a few bad days when she became nauseous, so I feel for you and Hero. It’s so hard to see our dogs not feeling well. Please give Hero a hug from Holly and me.
Holly and Holly’s mom