You don’t know what you don’t know when your dog becomes a Tripawd. Piper’s people discovered so much about fitness and mobility, thanks to Tripawds Foundation’s generous donations that support our Rehab Grant.
The consultation, and rehab exercises help Piper 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.
See all Tripawds who have received free rehab sessions thanks to your support.
Piper is a 7-year old Wirehaired Pointing Griffon that can best be described as “joy covered in messy hair!”
Piper joined the Tripawds community on 9/22/25 due to an inoperable chondroma located at her front right elbow.
The tumor had become painful enough that she had stopped using that leg for much of the time, so I knew it was time to remove her leg.
Tripawd Griffon Piper Navigates Her Early Days of Recovery
The surgery went well and she returned home the following day. But boy, I was not prepared for the recovery.
My normally happy and carefree dog was confused, struggling with mobility and on pain medication that made her incredibly sleepy and lethargic. I was very worried!
Piper Gets Unexpected News
While struggling in the early stages of recovery, I got the news that the testing of the tumor came back to show that it had undergone metastatic transformation to chondrosarcoma. This was definitely not the news I was hoping for.
But I learned that she likely has several years left (and hopefully many more!) and I felt determined to get her back into shape to enjoy those years fully!
Physical Therapy Helps Tripawd Griffon Piper Move Forward
Combing through the Tripawds community forums, I learned about physical therapy following amputation and just knew that she needed that extra help! I found Twinbrook Animal Clinic through the Tripawds referral section and they were able to see her right away.
Piper Learns New Skills
Two weeks post-surgery, Piper and I met with Laura Lefever at Twinbrook. Laura was so welcoming, knowledgable and patient with Piper.
We learned several types of stretches, range of motion exercises and accommodations that have helped Piper navigate her new life as a Tripawd.
Laura also educated me on the importance of protecting Piper’s remaining legs/joints. (I don’t think I realized how much extra work they are doing now.)
These exercises are geared toward preventing joint stiffness, maintaining flexibility in the remaining limbs and reducing the risk of compensation-related injuries.
We do her stretching and range of motion exercise once a day and she looks forward to her sessions.
Piper and Her People Rediscover Their Joy
I’m happy to report that Piper has regained her joyful disposition and she gets around as well as she ever did!
Our visit also gave me more confidence in my ability to take care of Piper. It was really a wonderful experience for both Piper and I and I’m so grateful to the Tripawds community for educating me to the option of physical therapy for Piper!
— Jennifer and Piper
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)