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Pets
by LadyAmp

If you're an amputee, especially a leg amputee, a pet can be a source of enjoyment, love, passion and danger. For me, getting home from the hospital was not only the accomplishment of leaving a source of pain behind, but a source of happiness in that I was finally going to see our pets after being away from them for 3 weeks.

I knew there would be needed changes in dealing with our pets. And of course, I hadn't really thought ahead to what would happen once I got home. But being faced with our dogs underfoot, I had to come up with a plan quick!

I was lucky in so much that our dogs, a Rotty/Beagle mix, a whopping 80 lbs, and a Shih Tzu, a small 18 lbs, learned quickly the changes needed in our household. The word 'move' became a part of our command vocabulary and they rarely didn't heed the command. But we were lucky. Not all pets are going to be that easy to train.

A pet senses when there is a problem in the household. They will sense your apprehension and your fear. Reassure them, pet and love on them to let them know they are still a vital part of the family. Once they are at ease, the rest will come a lot simplier.

If you have a dog or two, prepare yourself for them being underfoot. If you're using a walker or crutches, look where they are before rising up out of your wheelchair, chair or couch. If you are in a wheelchair most of the time, look before you begin rolling your wheelchair. A tail or a foot can be under the wheels and that will make for a hurt dog or cat and you feeling very bad.

Before taking a step, once more, look for your pet. Make sure they are out of the path you are going to be taking. If they are, start with a command word of your own to get them to move away. A family member or your spouse can be the catalyst between the two of you. But sooner or later you'll have to deal with them yourself, so you might as well begin as soon as possible.

A cat may be more difficult to teach, but some cats are more comfortable away from the activity of moving objects. You know your cat, so be prepared just the same.

No matter what, if your animals are a source of danger to you, keep them away from your activity until it is safe to allow them back in.

If you have a tip or trick to use when it comes to your pets, E-mail me with your suggestion!


Cassie N' Me
My son caught our puppy Cassie napping on my shoe and prosthetic leg and I couldn't help but pass it on!!! She's our Boxer pup, 8 weeks old and thinks grandma's shoe is a perfect pillow!! She is a bundle of energy and love and has learned my command 'move' already!