An instinctive habit
It is a scene that is both heartwarming and intriguing. A clip on TikTok shows a three-legged dog getting her bed ready for a nap. Just as many dogs instinctively do, she scratches her cushion.
What is so surprising is that the dog repeatedly moves the stump of her amputated leg. Once her little ritual is complete, she curls up peacefully on her cushion, looking thoroughly pleased with herself.
The video perfectly illustrates the phantom limb phenomenon in animals.
"It is so sad"
Just like humans who have undergone amputations, dogs and cats can continue to feel the presence of their missing limb.
Recent veterinary studies show that the nervous system and the brain take time to process the loss of a limb. This leads the animal to perform automated, reflex movements. "It is so sad" and "poor baby" are just some of the comments left online.
An amazing ability to adapt
Although mild pain or discomfort can occur shortly after surgery, vets point out that the vast majority of animals adapt brilliantly to amputations and go on to live wonderful lives.
Translated from the FR Wamiz website using artificial intelligence
