Hi – My name is Guinness. I am a Ridgeback mix and 8 1/2 years old. I live with my human mom, my human older brother, and six cats. I was diagnosed with bone cancer in the right front limb on Wednesday, July 11, 2012. This was my mom’s birthday and it wasn’t very happy for her. The vet provided my mom and brother with options but they said that amputation wasn’t an option. They said that they would consider options and call back. I don’t know why they wouldn’t consider amputation. So what – I don’t have my spare leg? My lungs are clear and my blood work was fine. Why wouldn’t they consider it?!!?? Well, on Friday, July 13, which was my lucky day, she made the decision to amputate woo hoo!! Thank God she listened and came to her senses. I really don’t know why it took her two days . . . REALLY?
I was taken to UC Davis on Thursday, July 20, 2012 and they amputated on Friday the 21st. The surgery was very long but it went well. I am really nervous and don’t know what’s going on. They had to give me anxiety medicine to calm me down. Today, Saturday, July 21st, the staff took me outside. It was nice to smell the fresh air. They say that I am doing good and that I might be able to go home tomorrow, Sunday the 22nd. But, that is a big might. I sure do hope so because I miss my mom, my big bro, and my bed. I’ll post more on Sunday about my journey. I know my mom is looking forward to my return but she is very nervous as well. She said it’s like taking an infant home from the hospital. You get home and then say “what do I do now?” My mom is very strong and I know she’ll do well. Thanks for reading.
Hi Guinness! Welcome! That’s great that your lungs are clear and your blood work is ok. I’m glad that your mom decided to amputate…hopefully you’re feeling better already now that your ouchie leg is gone.
It will be a bit difficult for your mom at first, but you’ll be hopping around in no time and you can show her how great it is to be a tripawd!
There’s lots of good information here for your mom to read to help her know what to do when you come home, and lots of people willing to help and answer any questions that she has.
I hope that you get to come home tomorrow!!
Welcome Guinness! You’ve got a new life as a special tripawd and will be home soon! We are all here for you and your Mom. There are many supportive people here who are going through the same events and emotions. It’s so great to be able to write and express your feelings. The 1st two weeks are the toughest, as with any healing process, but you will all get through it. Please have your Mom post some photos when she gets time….
Welcome Guinness! Sorry you had to lose your leg, but you’re in great hands at UC Davis. I know they will take really good care of you, and I know your Mom and Brother will take even better care of you when you get home. Tell your Mom to remember that once you get home, you will probably be a little “out of it” because of all the medicines the hospital will send home with you. The first few weeks of recovery can be rough, but I know you can do it! Tell your Mom to post in the forums if she has any questions, because there’s a lot more “traffic” over there. Good luck, and keep us updated!!!