The Tripawds Connection

Another guest blog here, this time from Jim and René of tripawds.com – Jerry's place for three legged dogs and their people ...

The bonds we share with our animals strengthen even more when they become sick.

Only people who have been through the battle with cancer in their dog can truly understand how strong this bond can be. In turn, they easily develop tight bonds with others who have shared the same experience.

Case in Point: The Tripawds / 2 Dogs connection.

We met Yer Big Dog online after receiving a comment from him on our three legged dog videos of Jerry – our own canine cancer hero. After learning about Malcolm and the 2000 mile walk Luke is undertaking to help raise awareness and funds for cancer research, we bonded immediately.

But let us step back a bit ... Jerry was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in the fall of 2006. After his amputation we decided to sell our home and business to travel the country with him. He was given only about three or four months to live and we wanted to spend all that time with him.

We hit the road in our RV, exploring the country and spreading the word that it's better to hop on three legs than to limp on four. We traveled from one coast to the other while Jerry continued to amaze us, outliving all the doctors' expectations, and developing a community of support along the way through his Tripawd Discussion Forums.

After reaching the Atlantic ocean in Maine, and spending time on a farm in Florida, we were headed back west when we heard of the launch date for the 2 Dogs 2000 Miles walk from Austin to Boston. A launch party was in order.

What a pleasure it was to meet Luke and the boys in person (and in dog). We gathered at a park where a handful of three legged dogs joined us for food and fun times.

The next week, Hudson and Murphy would lead Yer Big Dog on the beginning of their amazing journey. But not before we produced a video interview and had a major sleep-over party – three people and three big dogs in a 24' trailer.

Soon we were both on the road. Each heading our separate ways – but both crossing the U.S. – with a common cause. To spread the word about the scourge that is cancer in dogs. Granted, we have it a bit more comfortable in our trailer, while Luke hikes and sleeps on the ground. But he does have Hudson and Murphy to keep him comfortable.

Sadly, we had to say goodbye to Jerry on October 3, nearly two years after his amputation. But our hike shall go on. And we will continue to support the efforts of everyone here at 2 Dogs 2000 Miles.