Thanks to the Tripawds Rescue Fund made possible by supporters like you, we were able to reimburse Tripawds member shuggy16 for adopting another three legged dog in need. Read on for the story of Tripawd Rescue Boa…
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This is my Tripawd, Boa
We moved to Kansas from New Jersey in January. In looking for a new vet we came across the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City. Boa (previously Rhino) had the best smile!
We already had 2 dogs and 3 hedgehogs so I was hesitant to take on more responsibility while still getting settled myself. It wasn’t until a number of weeks later while looking for an update did I learn that he was a Tripawd. I initially only looked at his photo but upon learning of his “special needs” I knew he was meant to be ours and since he had no one interested yet I knew it was the right time. One of our hedgehogs mysteriously damaged her back when she was only a few months old and her back legs are paralyzed. We built her a tiny wheel cart but she preferred to just pull herself around on her front legs and not use the cart. Though it hurt our feelings to see her “struggling” we finally realized it did not change her spirit and she was not struggling at all but just learning a new way. Her injury taught me that animals do not know the difference in the number of legs they have use of so even though Boa was listed as “special needs” I knew there wouldn’t be much difference from having a 4 legged dog.
One of my dogs (Bailey) also had luxating patella issue when she was younger. I started reading about the benefits of bone broth in dogs and I started making/incorporating this in their daily feedings. Bailey has grown out of most of her issue but I have kept the bone broth as a staple in their diet. I am very glad I kept this up since I am sure it will benefit Boas strength and his remaining growth since he is only 6 months old. We have also gotten area rugs in each room to help ensure he does not injure himself slipping on the hardwood and have installed carpet strips on the back steps so he doesn’t slip in the rain. Next step is to get him a wagon so he can stimulate his senses and enjoy the smells and sights on the longer hikes through the nature trails with us and our other 2 dogs instead of having to leave him behind!
We have only had him a few days but he has already found a huge place in our hearts! He has taught us that even though we feel we need to take a little extra patience and time with him, he sure doesn’t need any special treatment! He runs faster than our other dogs and has such a happy/sweet personality that it is tough to remember how much he’s been through. He fit right in with my other dogs and it’s like they’ve all grown up together.
My advice to anyone thinking of getting a Tripawd is : GO FOR IT!!! Just as you would any other pet, take the time to get to know your Tripawd as a new member of your family before deciding if you feel they need any special treatment. In Boa’s case (even though we thought we would have a list of accommodations) the only adjustments we needed to make were the carpeting and to keep breakables up high since he has a tendency to be a little wobbly/slippery while learning to navigate the hardwood floors. Other than that, he acts and is treated just like the others! He has taught us a sense of pride and strength to better our own lives as well! Seeing him overcome an injury that would hold most humans back is fascinating and inspiring!
I was looking up tips and harnesses/accommodations for Tripawds when I came across this website. This has been, and I’m sure will continue to be, a great resource! Thank you for sharing all of this great information and for being such a great resource!
~ Stephanie, Lynda and Boa (aka: shuggy16)