Tripawd Sadie benefits from free canine rehab evaluation and at-home therapy thanks to Tripawds Foundation’s Rehab Grant. The consultation, and rehab exercises help Sadie stay strong and love life on three legs. Read their story, and learn how you can get a free veterinary rehab evaluation for your dog or cat.
Yes! Tri-kitties qualify for free feline rehab too. See all Tripawds who have received free rehab sessions thanks to your support.
Tripawd Sadie is a 12-year-old Beagle Shepherd mix.
Just before the winter holidays she was diagnosed with a bone tumor (later confirmed to be an osteosarcoma). The Tripawds website and blog was so helpful in informing our decision about whether or not to pursue amputation.
One complicating factor was minor symptoms concerning for a spinal issue, so physical therapy was strongly recommended post amputation.
Tripawd Sadie’s Amputation and Recovery Process
In mid-January we proceeded with amputation and had the initial recovery in a place separate from our other dog. The beginning of February, the same she was seen for post-op follow up, we also got her in for a rehab appointment.
The rehabilitation therapist was so immensely helpful and reassuring that we can preserve Sadie’s quality of life with the appropriate support and exercises.
Sadie’s Rehabilitation Plan
We were given a list of several exercises including:
- Circle walks (3-5 reps)
- Weave cones/poles (3-4 reps initially and gradually work up to 8-10 reps)
- Figure of 8 (8-10 reps)
- Cavaletti rails (3-4)
The instructions were to do 2-3 sessions per day, 4-5 days per week. The goals of the exercises include spinal mobility and flexibility, paraspinal strength, proprioception of feet and legs, and to teach her to pick her feet up higher.
Sadie’s Emotional and Physical Progress
These exercises are not only beneficial for Sadie’s physical recovery, but also our emotional connection with her, each other, and the rest of the animals in the house. Our time practicing with each practice session is such a lovely experience of mindfulness and mental presence.
Our other dog likes the training aspect and enjoys doing the exercises too. One of our cats even occasionally runs the course! The PT is such an amazing way to make sure we are dedicating time to bring us and Sadie joy, connection, and improve her quality of life.
Lessons from Tripawd Sadie’s Strength and Healing
The most important thing we learned from this experience is another way we can connect with Sadie and provide her joy, comfort, and mental stimulation even with the limitations she has had to face with the amputation.
She Returns to Her Favorite Activities
As we have been practicing these exercises at home her mobility and strength have improved such that she has been able to go back to some of the things she enjoys again including spending time outside and hopping around, sniffing, and exploring the yard with her sister, Theia.
The therapist also gave us guidance on how to gradually work her back up to enjoying her walks that she loves so much, which has been very helpful.
Her Rehabilitation Specialist
The therapist we visited was Dr. Kevin Jones at Thrive Pet Care.
— Annalyn and Sadie
How to Find Rehab Therapy for Tripawd Dogs and Cats
Check Out the at Home Tripawd Rehab Program
(created by veterinary rehab therapist Dr. John Waterhouse)