Recent amputation

Question
Our 7yr old female Bullmastiff was diagnosed with bone cancer and had to have her right hind leg taken off.  She is doing well but since coming home from the hospital (Purdue) she hides / sleeps behind furniture, under desks, etc.  Any clues as to why the new behavior?

Answer
Hi Jim,

Thank you for writing to me about your Bullmastiff.  I am sorry to hear about her plight with bone cancer.

I would like to suggest that you join a group called:

theblacksalvecanceropenforum@yahoogroups.com/  

Some of them are dealing with their own dog's bone cancers and have cutting edge information that you might be able to impliment.  There are also specific bone cancer groups on yahoo that offer information and support.

Additionally, check out Shirley's Wellness Cafe, Marty Goldstein's The Nature Of Animal Healing and Caninecare.org/

My friend and colleague Lori went through something similiar with her German Shep. and might be able to offer information and links. If you email me privately at szukidavis@aol.com/ I will give you her email address.

I do believe that your dog has been traumatized and is looking for a "cave."  This likely means that she doesn't have a crate to relax in.  You might want to set up a crate for her, keeping the door open, with a blanket over the crate.  She can be fed in it, given a favorite toy and treats.  

I would also suggest that you place 12 drops of Rescue Remedy in her water bowl and rub some on her gums.  This will help take the edge off her stress.

She may be experiencing phantom leg syndrome and having a comforting massage could go a long way.

Basically, your girl is experiencing fear and anxiety.  Try to keep her life as normal as possible.  If you are treating her in a way that she is experiencing your own fears and anxieties, they may be transfering over to her and shaking her confidence...so be as normal as possible with her.

If she is able to go for walks, exercise is one of the best ways to diminish anxiety and stress.

I wish you and your girl the very best of luck.

Regards,
Shelley Davis