where to get amputee t-shirts for post-surgery

[dogmom192]

I am looking to find a t-shirt that will fit my dog following a front leg amputation.  The sites I've found don't have sizes large enough for my dog, (a big Chesapeake, just under 100 lbs).  Any ideas?

[dogmom192]

Thanks for the t-shirt ideas. Probably will have to make one in order to get something that fits. Yes, maybe something like velcro fastening would be a good idea for easy off/on.  I'll check out Buck and Buck, too.  

Haven't completely commited to the amputation yet, Ginger, (though it's scheduled).  My vet is looking into prosthetics for me, so partial amputation is still a consideration as well at this point.  I'm just trying to get everything in order either way.  I'll keep you posted.  Thank you.

[ginger899]

So you've decided to go ahead with the amputation? I can't help thinking you have decided to do the right thing. I have been thinking of him. Is the T shirt an idea to help protect the bandaging or wound following the surgery?

You could try a human T shirt, cut out the sleeve, and stitch up the seam where the sleeve was? But do it neatly or the line of stitches might make a ridge which could  irritate the stump. And you will have to be able to remove the T shirt very easily for stump care at first.....it is a bit of a puzzle, what would be best. Perhaps a velcro fastening stiched up the side?
Buck and Buck.com do amputee clothing. I just looked at their site, but the things they have do seem a bit limited. I don't know if you would find a T shirt like you are looking for?

[Jaybay]

I've had to create various t-shirt rigs over the years for our dogs' various post-surgical issues.  I use a large boys' size t-shirt and knot the excess fabric over the back.  In the case of a front leg amputation, you could stitch the sleeve closed, but higher up toward the shoulder seams and cut off the excess fabric.  Doesn't have to be pretty work after all.  Once you get the general pattern down, you can do the same with any cheap, white men's or boy's t-shirts so you have several to rotate through the laundry.