On this October 3, which we call “St. Jerry Day” around here, it’s especially poignant that another Tripawd hero is getting fit thanks to our generous donors. Broly, who also happens to be a German Shepherd like our Jerry was, received a free canine rehab evaluation and at-home therapy thanks to Tripawds Foundation’s Rehab Grant.
We hope you enjoy his story. Why not 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.
Broly is a 6.5 year old German Shepherd and new amputee as of June 4th 2025
He had CBLO surgeries in December 2024/April 2025, then seven weeks post-op from the second one he suddenly went lame in his left. Overnight it got worse. Our vet had us bring him in immediately. The pre/post-op x-rays showed bone differences indicative of osteosarcoma.
We were devastated. A radiologist confirmed and he had the amputation a few days later. He had a VERY rough start. For weeks we were unsure if we made the correct decision or if we caused more harm than good.
Finding Hope for Tripawd Broly with Tripawds Foundation
I’m so thankful my husband found Tripawds. We wouldn’t have looked into therapy otherwise. We thought “Okay, we can be reimbursed, it’s worth the time to go once to see what they say.” I’m glad we did.
It isn’t as terribly expensive as we anticipated so we ended up signing up for a six week program.
First Consultation and Tripawd Therapies
On consultation day he had:
- Red light therapy to encourage his wound to heal
- Shockwave therapy for his hip muscles
- And he has spondylosis in a few vertebrae (found years prior), so he had acupuncture.
We talked about k-calories and weight goals. We couldn’t believe the vet considered all of this to be under the umbrella of a “consultation.” For us, it showed she truly wants her patients to feel better.
Home Exercises to Help Broly Heal
We were shown basic exercises to be performed a few times daily to help his muscles:
- Range of motion for all limbs – Done with him lying on his side, we take a limb and stretch it out then move it down and toward his rear, then tuck his paw back up and in (think of pedaling a bicycle).
- Hip push/pull exercise – Pulling his back hip toward the amputated leg side, or pushing away from it. We do this softly, only to the point where we can feel his muscles engage to push/pull back.
New Strength Exercises for Tripawd Broly at Week Three
We just learned some new strength exercises on week three:
- Shifting weight into his back end – His front end is elevated on a small step up and he looks up to receive his treat, ensuring weight is shifted back properly.
- Core engagement for higher back foot lift – To prevent dragging his toes or knocking them against steps, he steps over something. At the facility she has cones with cross bars; at home we will use rake/shovel handles.
- Stability exercise – Walking across a foam dog bed, which she compared to walking in sand, to engage muscles for stability. We need to purchase something similar to practice at home.
Three-Legged Broly’s Resilience Shines
I think the process is showing his impressive resiliance! He is surprising us every day with his progress and we are so thankful for Dr. Jennifer Mead at Integrated Veterinary A.R.T.S.
— Jessica and Broly
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)