Tripawd Damon benefits from free canine rehab evaluation and at-home therapy thanks to Tripawds Foundation Rehab Grant. The consultation, and rehab exercises help Damon 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 Damon: His Unique Lineage and Energetic Spirit
Damon, my Tripawd, is approximately six or seven years old and a mix of several breeds, primarily Staffordshire Terrier, Chihuahua, Miniature Poodle, and Dachshund. Despite his small stature and diverse lineage, he is full of energy and resilience.
How an Accident Led Tripawd Damon to a New Beginning
Damon became an amputee after a tragic accident in October 2022. As a stray in Florida, he was hit by a car and taken to an emergency veterinary clinic before being transferred to a local shelter.
Initially, his injury was a dislocated elbow, and veterinarians attempted to keep it in place for several months. Unfortunately, they were unsuccessful, and in December 2022, they made the decision to amputate his front leg. Since then, he has adapted remarkably well to life on three legs.
Tripawd Damon’s Rehabilitation Plan for Strength and Mobility
To support Damon’s physical health, our rehab team prescribed four daily exercises designed to build his core strength and improve mobility.
- The first exercise involves balancing on couch pillows while following a treat from side to side, which enhances his core muscles.
- The second exercise requires him to place his front leg on an approximately four-inch-high surface while rocking back and forth. For this, I use a metal box covered with a blanket to prevent slipping. This exercise shifts some weight onto his back legs, which is essential because he tends to be front-leg heavy.
- The third exercise encourages him to dig and move his paw in a natural digging motion, which helps prevent ligament stiffness.
- Lastly, the fourth exercise involves Damon lying on his side and performing slight turns toward treats to strengthen his core further.
A Journey of Strength and Adaptation
These exercises were chosen because Damon is already in good shape despite being a tripod for two years without rehab. He does not exhibit touch sensitivity, and the only resistance the vet noticed was in his front shoulder and either his back hips or forelegs. Since it was unclear which area was more sore, these exercises target both.
The primary goal is to build his core strength, reduce his weight, and encourage him to rely more on his back legs rather than overloading his remaining front leg. Additionally, the digging exercise helps maintain flexibility in his ligaments.
The vet was mindful of making the exercises manageable, given that I am disabled and we live far from the clinic. She also recommended acupuncture treatment to help manage pain and anxiety if we do not see improvement in the next few months. She also noted that Damon does not need a cart or prosthetic since he moves well on his own.
Keeping Tripawd Damon Healthy and Active
These exercises benefit Damon by strengthening his core, relieving pressure on his front leg, and keeping his ligaments from stiffening. They contribute to his overall health and mobility, ensuring he continues to live a happy, active life as a Tripawd.
Lessons Learned from Damon
The most valuable lesson I have learned from this experience is that I am doing a good job as Damon’s caregiver. He is my first dog, and I often worry about making mistakes. However, this process has reinforced that my efforts are effective and that his rehabilitation should focus on core strength and weight management rather than solely on his legs.
Expert Care Recommendation
For anyone seeking expert care for their pet’s rehabilitation, I highly recommend Dr. Kim Mayers at Purdue University Small Animal Hospital. More information about their services can be found here: Purdue University Small Animal Hospital – Physical Rehabilitation
— Alycia and Damon
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)