A dog belonging to a dear friend of mine has developed a problem with one of her back legs. After undergoing extensive veterinary tests it seems that the only option left is to amputate the leg. The thing is, the dog is 14 years old - admittedly there are no other health problems but, if it were me, I'd have serious doubts as to whether a dog of that age would be able to cope with life on 3 legs.

What do you think ? would it be fair to put her through such a big op and then hope that she'll adapt afterwards ?

What breed is your friend's dog?  MAYBE if it was a small breed dog with a long life expectancy I'd consider it, but as a general question I'd definitely say no.

Difficult situation - I think if your friend did feel she wanted to go ahead, she'd have to be very strict with herself and be prepared to end it if the dog was suffering in any way afterwards, which is probably even more difficult than making that decision now.

M.

If it was my dog , I wouldn't do it. The dog is 14 and has had a long life. I don't think my breed would do well with three legs and I wouldn't put them through it. It is a really hard thing to decide and who would want to be in that position. They know their own dog better than anyone and I am sure they will do the right thing.

I don't really want to give too much info on here about the breed but Tilly is a well built medium sized terrier.  She still loves life and is as active as her leg allows her to be.  But I'm sure there'd be a huge strain on her other hind leg having to bear the weight.
I really want to support my friend, whatever she decides, but, if Tilly were mine I think I'd be calling time. 

Think I agree with you.  I certainly wouldn't do it to one of mine at that age, but was thinking (having known a couple of dogs with legs amputated and how well they cope) that a Yorkie or something might be worth the gamble if you were prepared to be strict with yourself afterwards.

M.

Thanks for your comments.  Tilly has had an extremely happy life, she's been well-loved and cared for, she's enjoyed wonderful times with her doggy brothers and sisters and has given immense joy to her owners.
My only problem now is how to persuade my friend to let her go......but I have to accept that the ultimate decision is hers.