Deep breath in, hold it, and let it out. This was my {big} sigh of relief that I made the correct decision.
The vet said Duncan had a maximum of six more months to live. Well, one week lasted after he was diagnosed with osteosarcoma and I couldn’t stand seeing him stoically bear his pain in his eyes and not even be able to put down the tumorous leg. So I made the decision for amputation. The surgery was five days ago and he is getting around beautifully.
He is already running, he’s pain-free and can use the bathroom with no problem. He can’t do steps yet, but he is doing great for a 100+ lb dog with out his fourth leg.
I’m so happy with my decision. I couldn’t bear seeing that leg anymore. Most importantly, now when I look into his eyes I see a smiling, panting, interested dog, not one that is trying to bear the most painful thing in the world on his own shoulders. He looks youthful and has a glowing presence on three-legs.
The vet told me this wouldn’t resolve the cancer, but it would be a 100 percent pain fix. I still can’t help but pray for the miracle that the cancer didn’t enter his bloodstream yet. I needed to get the leg off to at least give the it a chance.
Go ahead God, he’s all yours. Do your thing… fix my dog.
I had the same experience with my dog — lots of agonizing before the surgery, and then total relief when the leg came off and my dog had left it all behind.
They are great teachers about living in the present moment, aren’t they?