Hi there! It sure is a right move to get a second, third or even fourth opinion before deciding on amputation. That I think should be the last resort.
Below are some links I found on the internet which I hope might provide some information to you. Few of them are international forums, with owners experiencing similar situations.
http://home.ivillage.com/pets/symsolve/0,,lhq2,00.html
http://www.seefido.com/dog-discussio...ic.php?p=2082&
http://au.answers.yahoo.com/question...2083841AA7nZ2T
Will post more if I find any additional information. Here’s wishing her a speedy recovery.
Rgds,
Cavey