There’s so much to learn when a pet loses a leg, especially when cancer is the reason. Tripawd JJ is one such pup whose people had to deal with both surgery and treatment. So it’s our honor to help them out with a free canine rehab evaluation and at-home therapy, thanks to Tripawds Foundation’s donations to the Rehab Grant.
The consultation, and rehab exercises help pets missing a leg stay strong and love life on three legs. Read JJ’s story, and learn how you can get a free veterinary rehab evaluation for your dog or cat, too!
Yes! Tri-kitties also qualify for this grant. See all Tripawds who have received free rehab sessions thanks to your support.
JJ is our lovable 5 year old border collie/terrier mix.
JJ became an amputee in September of 2025.
In July of the same year JJ was away with the family on vacation. In his usual boisterous manner, JJ jumped up to greet a family member at the door and as he leaped over the back of a sofa, he fell onto a hardwood floor.
He began to limp, but seemed to have no pain when the area was touched.
Tripawd JJ’s Injury Leads to a Shocking Discovery
When we took him to the vet, thinking that he had sustained trauma from the fall, we were cautioned that the lump on his right front leg could very well be due to cancer.
We were shocked and devastated further when we learned that the only way to get a reliable diagnosis and relieve his pain was to amputate his right front leg.
Tripawd JJ Adjusts to Life on Three Legs
JJ has handled amputation like a champ and his favorite thing to do is RUN!
Osteosarcoma was the final diagnosis, so JJ is currently prescribed to receive 6 rounds of chemotherapy (carboplatin) once every 3-4 weeks, based upon his tolerance.
At the time of this writing he has received one dose, which he has tolerated very well. 🤞🏻
Tripawd JJ Gets Help from a Rehab Consultation
After learning about the wonderful Maggie Moo Fund, we took JJ for a Rehab consultation with Dr. Michelle Rupp, VMD, CCRT, CVMMP, CFFP at All Good Pets, Creative Movement Therapy.
Dr. Rupp met with us to discuss JJ’s case and then completed a thorough examination using diagnostic tools and medical manipulation to find restricted areas in his back, neck and joints. Additionally she treated him with acupuncture.
Exploring Future Treatment Options for Tripawd JJ
Discussion for possible future treatments included talk of therapeutic ultrasound, shockwave therapy, electrostimulation, among others.
Dr. Rupp did not want to recommend a course of action until we had a chance to consult with our oncologist to confirm safety in JJ’s particular case.
We left with some great techniques for therapeutic massage as demonstrated by the doctor.
She also recommended walking JJ on slight inclines occasionally to give his front leg a rest as well as some core building exercises.
Tripawd JJ Leaves Relaxed and Happy
JJ left a relaxed and happy boy. We will be doing the research that we need to do with the oncologist before scheduling additional sessions.
The consulation session proved to be educational regarding the restrictions that JJ is experiencing and seeing him become very relaxed due to massage, manipulation and acupuncture.
I would definitely recommend a rehab consult to anyone who is concerned for their Tripawd.💜
— Sandie and JJ
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)