Tripawd Malinois Sammie benefits from free canine rehab evaluation and at-home therapy thanks to Tripawds Foundation’s Rehab Grant. The consultation, and rehab exercises help this Belgian beauty stay strong and love life on three legs. Read her 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 Belgian Malinois Sammie Faces a New Challenge
My sweet Sammie turned 11 on May 25, 2025. She was diagnosed with suspicion of Osteosarcoma on Jan 2 of 2025. I made the difficult decision to have her leg removed on Jan 20 of this same year. She has also been going through chemotherapy since then.
Tripawd Sammie’s Bright Start
At first she was able to get her bearings and her balance and was doing well after her amp. She had bright spirits and was learning fun alternatives to her new normal.
Slowing Down and a Gut Feeling
Unfortunately, she began to slow down in the past month. She had lost the pep in her step and did not want to walk any more than necessary.
I was fooled by her occasional bursts of energy from excitement into convincing myself that she was okay, but I sensed something was wrong.
A Visit to Canine Rehab
Today I had the privilege of taking her to a canine rehab clinic locally. They were able to identify a possible injury to her ACL.
Even though I am devastated to find out my baby has problems that I didn’t see coming, I am at least relieved to know what is the most likely cause for her slowing down.
Sammie Starts Her Rehab Plan
And although it was distressing to learn that she’s in pain, I’m grateful that I can now set about helping her. I feel I’m in good hands with our treatment plan.
They are going to start laser therapy and underwater treadmill movement to build strength.
How Rehab Builds Strength and Hope
I have also been given exercises to help her at home and suggestions of walking her on leash briefly and gently several times a day to increase mobility.
It was really helpful to know what is the best —and worse— things for her right now. I feel I’m armed with alot more information than I started with thanks to the team at WagHab with Dr. Cassie Lord in Asheville, NC.
— Shari and Sammie
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)