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Puppy's leg injured by mom. What urgent vet care does she need?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My faithful companion gave birth Christmas eve and yesterday we noticed that the leg was black and dragging this morning we noticed the mom has eaten the leg off up to the thigh, I have been told that she should be put down by vet's even though she is thriving and eating. I refuse to let the little girl die! I just need to know how to keep a bandage on if I even need to do so.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jennifer Ladd, DVM

Answered By Jennifer Ladd, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 27th, 2016

This sounds like a bad situation. Yes euthanasia may be the most human option, however, if that is not an option for you than it is VERY important to involve a veterinarian so that the puppy can be protected with antibiotics and something to help with pain. Your veterinarian may advise a surgery to remove any bony remnants if the traumatic amputation left behind parts that could lead to pain and arthritis. Please, please take her in for some antibiotics at the very least. She could develop a life threatening infection.
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