Millie’s Story: Frequently Asked Questions

Millie’s journey has sparked a lot of curiosity — and we love that.

 

Here are the most common questions we receive.

 

1. What is wrong with Millie’s leg?

Millie was born with a congenital condition called radial hemimelia.

Radial hemimelia is a birth defect where the radius bone in the front leg is partially or completely missing. It can cause:

• A shortened or curved front leg
• Limited weight bearing
• A “tripawd” appearance, even though the limb is still present

It is present at birth and not caused by injury.

 

2. Is she in pain?

No.

Millie’s leg has never been painful for her. As she grew, we closely monitored her comfort, mobility, and activity levels. She has always:

• Run
• Played
• Swam
• Interacted normally
• Used the leg to hold toys and engage with people

Pain would have changed her behavior — and we simply never saw that.

 

3. Why didn’t you amputate?

When we first brought Millie to the vet, we were told the plan would likely be:

“Wait until she turns one, then amputate so she can wear a prosthetic.”

At the time, we assumed that was the only option.

But as Millie grew, we realized:

• She actively used the limb
• It was not painful
• She was fully functional

Later, after speaking with a pet prosthetic specialist, we learned something many people — and even many veterinarians — aren’t widely exposed to:

In many cases, it is easier to build a prosthetic around an existing limb than to attach one after amputation.

An existing limb provides:

• Better attachment points
• More stability
• Better proprioception (body awareness)
• More adaptability

Once amputated, those advantages are permanently gone.

Every case is different. But for Millie, amputation was not the right choice.

 

4. Why doesn’t she wear a prosthetic now?

Millie actually had a custom prosthetic made.

However:

• It slipped frequently
• It required additional support to stay on
• She clearly disliked wearing it
• It caused occasional discomfort

Could things have been different?

Possibly.

If we had introduced and trained her with a prosthetic from early puppyhood, she may very well be wearing one comfortably today. Early conditioning can make a significant difference.

But by the time we explored that path, Millie had already fully adapted to her body. She was thriving. Fast. Confident. Functional.

So we listened to her.

 

5. Will her back “go bad”?

This is a common concern.

While any three-legged dog can experience increased strain over time, many live long, active lives without severe spinal issues — especially when they maintain:

• Healthy weight
• Strong core muscles
• Regular activity
• Good veterinary monitoring

Millie stays active, lean, and strong. We continue to monitor her health closely.

So far, she’s doing beautifully.

 

6. Is radial hemimelia common in Golden Retrievers?

It is rare, but documented in several breeds, including Golden Retrievers.

Because it’s congenital, it occurs during fetal development. Responsible breeding practices are important in reducing the likelihood of hereditary defects.

 

7. Does her leg make her a better therapy dog?

Her leg doesn’t define her.

Her heart does.

But her uniqueness often opens doors for meaningful conversations about ability, resilience, and embracing differences.

As a certified therapy dog with KPETS, Millie brings comfort and connection everywhere she goes. People are naturally drawn to her joy — and they stay for her spirit.

 

8. What does Millie think about all of this?

Millie thinks:

• About snacks
• About swimming
• About new friends
• About where the tennis ball went

 

She does not think she is missing anything.

And that may be the greatest lesson she teaches us.