My wife and I recently adopted a dog from our local animal shelter. This dog was of an unknown mixed breed that needed lots of affection and love from a good family. He had no aggression and was extremely friendly. He was different from all the other dogs at the shelter, because he only had three legs. There was a terrible accident that left him so injured, that his leg had to be removed from the top of the thigh.

Since my wife and I were unsure of how to treat this dog in this condition, we did research and consulted with veterinarians. What causes these types of amputations anyway? This was our first question when we talked to these experts. We found very interesting information about this. It is a well known fact that dogs are rarely born without a leg.

An accident or disease is usually the cause for amputations. Bone cancer is an extremely debilitating and painful condition that is one of the main causes of limb amputation for dogs. An accident (which is what happened to our new adopted dog), neurological disorders, birth defects, and unforgiving abuse are other common causes of amputations.

This surgery may break an owner's heart, but it will bring your dog much needed relief.

Fear and anxiety will immediately come into an owner's mind when they receive the news that their precious pet needs an amputation. This fear is completely unnecessary even though it is totally understandable. A three legged dog will live a completely normal, happy and full life.

They will forget they even had the other leg after a while, and they will get used to their new life with 3 limbs very quickly. Physical and Mental recovery is fast Think about when a human loses a leg or arm. Maybe you don't actually know someone in this circumstance, but you have probably read about or seen someone on television that this has happened to.

The common factor is that these amputees accept their new fate and continue on with productive lives, sometimes being even more productive than before. Now, think about a dog. Animals are much more adaptable and resilient to these circumstances than people are. After your dog's amputation, he will be as good emotionally and mentally in less than a week. They may limp physically, but they don't feel sorry for themselves. After his surgery, your dog will be the same happy beloved pet he has always been.