Thursday, September 5th, 2013...4:10 am
It’s all about Pfritz
He’s been my constant companion for 9 1/2 years now. I first met him when he was 3 days old and once a week after that went to visit him.
On June 23rd he was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma in his right rear leg and on June 27th his leg was amputated. I couldn’t even say the word for the first day they presented that as the best option. It’s still hard to say. I was very scared about how I was going to help this 104 pound Rottweiler adjust to losing a leg. How do you lift him if he falls, how do you teach him to go up the stairs? How much is too much activity and how much is too little and not pushing him to adjust. What will the wound look like? How will he learn to walk and balance? I was overwhelmed with questions and wish they had told me about this website from day 1.
The first 2- 3 weeks were so intense. I slept downstairs with him for the first 3 weeks as he couldn’t navigate the stairs. We used an excel spreadsheet to keep track of the 4 meds he was on. My life was truly all about Pfritz. Slowly all of those questions I had worked out by trial and error as well as his intuitive learning curve. It’s just built in. But I do wish I had someone who had been through it before to talk to while I was mired in the fear of how life would ever be “normal” again. So . . . that is why I’m determined to start writing about what it’s like shepherding a big boy through this process. Maybe it will help someone else and answer some of my new questions.
3 Comments
September 5th, 2013 at 12:33 pm
It’s too bad that you didn’t find us sooner!! But….. the good news is.. you found us now!!!!
No one told me about this website… when my Franklin was diagnosed and we decided to do the amputation, I googles Three legged dogs.. this is what I got!! lol
There have been lots of bigger dogs who have gone through amputation and deal with is just fine!
It’s been 2 1/2 months since Pfritz’s operation..I am eager to find out how he is coping and managing. Has the spark in his eyes come back?
Cant wait to read more.. and see more pictures!! What a cute pup and handsome boy!
Christine….. with Franklin in her heart ♥
September 6th, 2013 at 4:22 am
Welcome and thank you for sharing Pfritz’s story. He’s a beautiful boy. Search the forums and blogs for plenty of stories from others who have been through this, and consider downloading Tripawds e-books for the best tips about adjusting to the “new normal”.
September 8th, 2013 at 5:23 pm
We’re so glad you found us and decided to share Pfritz’s story. So many people with large dogs who are facing the same diagnosis need hope and inspawration when trying to decide what to do. Pfritz’s story will be there always to bring comfort to these people, so thank you.
Give your boy a big hug from us. We can’t wait to follow along with your adventures.