Amputated after being shot, a dog learned to move on 3 legs during her convalescence spent with a foster family. The integration within it is going so well that its definitive adoption is seriously considered, reports WTXL ABC 27.
The dog in question is called Willow. She was discovered in a worrying state on July 30, 2026 in Panaceain Florida (United States). Cared for by Wakulla County Animal Services (Wakulla County Animal Control), she had been transported to the veterinary clinic Shepherd Spring Animal Hospital.
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The examination revealed that she suffered from 2 gunshot wounds: one to the head and the other to the left front leg.
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The veterinarians had done everything to save the affected limb, but had to carry out the amputation on August 4.
Afterwards, Willow was entrusted to a foster family, that of Tina And Craigparents of a quadriplegic adult named Lily.
It is Tina who had heard of Willow and discussed it with Craig. The couple had learned that she needed a foster family for her recovery. The husband was hesitant at first, unsure if they would be able to meet his specific needs. “ But we went to Shepherd Spring Animal Hospital to see her, and from that point on, there was simply no way I was going to let this dog go anywhere else. “, he says.
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“There, I said to myself: 'That's it, it's good. She loves us'”
After a phase of adaptation to its new environment, Willow overcame her fear and gradually integrated. Tina will never forget the moment when she understood that Willow now trusted them and became attached to them. “ It happened one morning when I woke up with her in the bedshe remembers. Yes, she sleeps with us! I turned towards her and she stood on top of me, as if to stop me from moving, then she started licking my face. And then I said to myself: “That’s it, it’s good. She loves us.” »
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Tina And Craig were also and above all touched by the link that was created between Willow and their daughter Lily. She provides the latter with a lot of support and comfort on a daily basis, so much so that they are considering not only adopting her, but also having her undergo training to make her a therapy dog.
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Woopets advice: how to support an amputee dog?
Amputation does not prevent a dog from returning to an active and fulfilling life, but a period of adaptation is necessary.
- A 3-legged dog must gradually learn to distribute its weight and find its balance: walks and physical activity must be resumed gradually, according to the veterinarian's recommendations.
- Controlled weight is especially important because the remaining limbs bear more stress.
- At home, non-slip mats can limit slipping and make moving around easier, especially during the first weeks.
- Regular veterinary follow-up makes it possible to monitor the condition of the remaining limbs and adapt the dog's activity to its capabilities.