Tripawd Patty got exercises to get stronger thanks to the free canine rehab evaluation made possible byTripawds Foundation’s Rehab Grant. The consultation, and rehab exercises help Patty 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 Patty Begins a New Journey After Amputation
After our 12 year old whippet lady Patty received her second diagnosis of a spindle cell sarcoma on her left hind leg last fall, after a previous resection had reoccurred more aggressively, we opted for a hind limb amputation as we and our vet felt that repeated surgeries, chemo and radiation would be a lot for an older dog with existing heart conditions.
Recovery Setbacks
While Patty initially recovered quickly and was even running again within three weeks, she suddenly started to regress around week five. She began refusing to ascend stairs (descending was ok) and she started slipping and falling on our hardwood floors.
Her walking endurance also dropped notably. When she used to be able to tolerate 40-60min hikes without a problem she would now stop and refuse to walk after short 10 minute walks.
We Turned to Rehabilitation for Help
To ensure she wasn’t suffering from any compensatory injuries or strains, we took her to see Dr. Masami Seplow at LAASER (Los Angeles Animal Specialty, Emergency & Rehabilitation). Dr. Seplow was great. She performed a gentle assessment and confirmed that Patty’s joints are actually in very good condition for her age.
Getting Answers and a Path Forward Thanks to Tripawds Rehab
However, she identified significant tension in Patty’s neck, shoulders, and her remaining hind leg as well as a spinal torsion (normal for tripods). The primary issues were shortened hamstrings and ligaments, which explained her reluctance to climb stairs, mixed with a loss of confidence after trying and failing to cross slippery surfaces or climb stairs.
Tripawd Patty’s Rehabilitation Plan
To build back strength and confidence in our dog, Dr. Seplow taught us several specific interventions:
- Balancing Exercises: Performed on a flat floor to improve stability (nose to shoulder, both sides, nose to chest, look up)
- Front Step-Ups: Using small training treats to encourage her to place her front paws on an elevated surface, building the core strength needed for stairs.
- Massage and Stretching: Specific techniques for the hind leg to prevent the ligaments from stiffening or shortening further.
- Traction Support: She gave us recommendations for a brush-on product for her paws to prevent slipping on wood floors.
Patty Shows Improvement in Just One Week
We have been consistent with these exercises for one week, and the results are already visible! Patty is now able to climb short flights of 3–4 steps and has much better traction on our floors, she is getting more confident again, and we went on a 40min walk just yesterday without her complaining or slowing down!
Our Girl Inspires Hope for Other Senior Dogs
I would highly encourage anyone to not give up on your elderly dog, or make excuses. Improvement is possible at any age and under most circumstances! Grateful to have access to this care.
— Nathini & Patty
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)