Depression following amputation

[alawrence]

Hi there... I'm in Colorado, and we adopted a darling girl from the Dominican Republic 2 years ago. Her history is tragic, and without details, she was thrown from a car and shattered her hind leg. After reinjuring the leg a few weeks ago, our vet recommended we amputate. It went very well, she's healing remarkably, and healthwise she's great. BUT... we can tell she's very depressed. This is so hard for us to experience. Any advice? It's only been 10 days but this is so hard. Is this normal? Any suggestions on what to do?

Thanks so much... we adore her and want her to be healthy AND happy!

Amy

[critters]

Hmm. Nothing like that has ever happened here. Is she still taking pain meds or anything?

[CarolC]

There are multiple posts on this board where the owners all say, the dog gets much better once the stitches are out.

The first few days will be tough but once the stitches are out, usually 2 weeks you will see so much progress. Your dog will adapt and in no time will be amazing you with things you never thought she could do again.

I too think you will see a different dog once the stitches are out

You may find that he's a bit panty/whingy for the first few days, but most likely it will be because he's feeling odd and disoriented from the surgical anaesthetic and the pain medication, so don't get too alarmed. He'll need to have reduced activity for the first few weeks, but once the stitches are out (usually around two weeks later), things will be back to normal.

It's great how much better they feel after the stitches are out, isn't it?

he will do even better once the stitches are out. that seems to be the critical turning point then.

[alawrence]

Oh my gosh! The staples came out Friday afternoon, and Cindy is like a different dog! It's amazing. All your posts said the same thing... she is exactly 2 weeks post surgery, no more staples, and she's like our girl again. She actually has more energy than before. Dogs are incredible. Thank you all for your posts and support... this was a very difficult decision, especially after seeing her struggle following the amputation. We had terrible guilt. I will post updates as she learns to adjust her body now. Does anyone run short distances with their tripod now? She always loved to run with me and hopefully someday we can do that again.

[critters]

I don't see why she can't run again, as her strength and stamina build up. I would just be more aware of how she's feeling.

[alawrence]

It's been a while... just wanted to share with those who were so kind to offer support and advice that Cindy Lou is the happiest, healthiest girl now. She runs 2 miles with me and her furry sister (who is 13!) twice a week and her little stump is all healed. She loves having it scratched and the only thing we have to be careful of are slippery surfaces. She did great this winter and ripped around in the snow even better than before. Thank you all for your nice notes... we know we did the best thing for her.

Amy in Colorado