For a long time it was thought that Saint Bernards don’t do well on three legs. But because of Tripawds like Minnow and his human care team, that thinking is slowly changing.
See how Tripawd Minnow enjoyed a free canine rehab evaluation and at-home therapy. It’s all thanks to Tripawds Foundation’s Rehab Grant.
Read what Minnow’s humans (three-time Tripawd parents!) learned. Then discover 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.
Minnow is a recent tripawd due to osteosarcoma in his front left leg.
Having had two tripawds in the past, I knew that starting rehab early would help his experience adjusting after surgery and living a joyful life.
He underwent surgery early August in 2025 and started therapy mid-September. As a 6 year-old, 162 lb St. Bernard (he’s 141 lbs now!), his initial recovery was challenging.
Tripawd Minnow Learns to Move With Support
After a few post-surgical struggles we have been able to use the Help’em’up harness to support his movement and learn to move himself on three legs.
During his first therapy session last week we learned areas to focus on home massage for him and stretches for his hind legs.
Therapist Measurements and Balance Check
This week the therapists took additional measurements of his legs to assess any muscle wasting and so far he is balanced.
Hip Flexor Flexibility Focus For Tripawd Minnow
The flexibility in his hip flexors, particularly his back right leg (the one that would have balanced his missing leg) is rather tight.
We have stretches to work on with him for the hip flexor, including encouraging him to lie on his back left leg and not just his right.
Hydrotherapy and Targeted Stretching
When Minnow goes to therapy they also perform these exercises and complete hydrotherapy on the underwater treadmill with him, including stretches for the tight hip flexors in the pool.
Balance And Core Engagement Work
Additionally we work on balance with him.
We place his front leg on a step and gently putting pressure on him in different positions to find his balance and engage his core muscles to support him.
Daily Routine, Energy Cues, and Appointments
We complete his stretching exercises daily.
We perform the balance exercise when he shows that he has extra energy to be challenged in that space and attend in person therapy every 1-2 weeks.
Tripawd Minnow’s Progress on Varying Terrain
I have seen that Minnow can stand up easier and more even with performing this therapy.
He has been very successful in navigating varying terrain when we are at the park (such as sticks on the ground, hills, etc.).
Extra Eyes and Ongoing Assessment
It is also extremely helpful to have an extra three sets of eyes on our boys with the therapists at Paradise to monitor and assess his progress.
Every Tripawd is Unique, with Different Rehab Therapy Needs
Despite having cared for two other tripawds already, I have learned with Minnow and the team at Angela Parks, Jasmine Wilkerson, Ana, and Dr. J. Riehl how unique each one is and that they have their own special needs to care for, just like their personality!
— Amy and Minnow
Whether your dog or cat is young or old, big or little, rehab education can help them stay strong and love life on three legs.
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)