Partial foot amputation in 11 dogs

Eleven dogs with malignant tumors of the digits and feet were treated with partial foot amputation. Partial foot amputation involved amputation of one or both central weight-bearing digits. Lameness occurred in all dogs but resolved in eight dogs at a median of 37 days postoperatively. In the remaining three dogs, lameness improved but did not resolve. Tumor control was excellent, with no evidence of local recurrence in 10 dogs. One dog underwent limb amputation. Based on these results, partial foot amputation may be recommended in the management of malignant tumors of the canine foot in which more than one digit must be amputated to achieve adequate surgical margins.