Impact of Digit Amputation on Dogs Competing in Agility

Abstract Objectives This work sought to determine the prognosis for dogs for return to athletic function in canine agility competitions after digit amputation. Materials and Methods Data were collected using an Internet-based survey of owners of agility dogs with digit disorders that required amputation. Signalment and physical characteristics were compared between dogs with traumatic and nontraumatic disorders. Athletic performance before and after amputation was assessed subjectively by owner opinion and objectively for eight dogs using competition performance records. Results Problems leading to digit amputation in 46 dogs included acute or chronic traumatic lesions (30 dogs), infection (7 dogs), neoplasia (7 dogs), and cystic lesions (2 dogs). There were no differences in signalment or physical characteristics between dogs with traumatic and nontraumatic disorders. Of the 46 dogs, 39 (84.7%) had returned to agility at the time of the survey and 94.6% of the owners (37/39) were satisfied with performance after amputation. No dog failed to return to agility as a result of the digit disorder or amputation. There was no difference in mean competition speed before and after amputation. Clinical Significance Most agility dogs undergoing digit amputation perform satisfactorily after surgery, although modifications to performance criteria may be appropriate for some.