USE OF DOG WHEELCHAIR & WHEEL WALKER FOR REHABILITATION

 

USE OF DOG WHEELCHAIR & WHEEL WALKER FOR REHABILITATION

How to Use a Dog Wheelchair for Rehabilitation

One of the joys of sharing your life with a dog is going for walks together. But mobility problems caused by aging, injury or disease can make even a simple trip across the room painful or even impossible for some dogs. In the past, a loss of mobility usually meant the end, but thanks to canine wheelchairs and mobility carts, specially designed and fitted to suit each dog’s body type, capabilities, and limitations, even animals that are partially paralyzed can get moving again and enjoy good quality of life.

There are several medical conditions where a dog wheelchair can offer significant mobility, relief and at times, recovery.

Thoracolumbar Disc Degenerative Disease: This is the most common medical condition for which a dog may need a dog wheelchair. A dog wheelchair can aid in a dog’s rehabilitation whether he or she has had IVDD surgery or not.

Degenerative Myelopathy: This is the second most common condition for which dogs need a wheelchair. It generally starts off with knuckling of one hind paw, leading to both paws, and a swaying gait in the rear, very often with legs crossing. There is no pain associated with this condition. Unfortunately, it usually travels up the spinal cord and affects the front legs. A dog wheelchair can help to delay this process as this will take stress and strain off both the rear and front legs and keep your dog active and happy. Your dog can still use its rear legs as long as he or she is able.

Knee: Dogs with knee, or ACL, problems generally have surgery to correct this. Post surgery, a dog wheelchair will aid in taking stress off the surgically repaired limb, while preventing breakdown of the other leg. This is particularly applicable to overweight dogs.

Arthritis: If the arthritis is controlled with medication, and is in the rear limbs, then a dog wheelchair will aid mobility by taking stress off the hind limbs.

Paralysis: Whether it is due to injury or other spinal difficulties, a dog with rear leg paralysis can find mobility again with a dog wheelchair. Their rear legs can be suspended above ground with rear slings allowing the wheels to do what their legs can no longer provide. Just because your dog has lost the use of his or her rear legs, it doesn’t mean that they can’t enjoy life. It doesn’t matter how tiny or how big your dog is, or whether you go with a custom cart or prefer something adjustable, there is a dog wheelchair to suit your needs.

Different wheelchairs for different needs

Dog wheelchairs are not created equal, and that’s a good thing. Some dogs need assistance only for their rear legs, while others need help taking the load off of all four limbs. The latter often proves true for dogs who struggle with osteoarthritis, especially if obesity increases the burden on their weight-bearing joints. Fortunately, you can choose between both rear-support and full-support wheelchair options.

• A typical rear-support dog wheelchair features a pair of wheels attached to metal struts and rails. In addition to straps that anchor the wheels to the dog’s back legs, another support harness behind the dog’s front legs is attached to a pair of connecting horizontal rails. This arrangement provides gentle, much-needed support for weakened or painful rear legs.
• A full-support wheelchair bears a strong resemblance to a rear-support wheelchair except that it includes an additional, smaller pair of wheels near the dog’s front legs, as well as a sling to support the his midsection.

Selecting a size

The size and weight of your dog will obviously affect the size of the wheelchair you rent or buy for him. Companies such as K9 Carts provide helpful tips and measurement guides. They also make multiple sizes of wheelchairs with built-in adjustability, allowing you to fine-tune its fit for your own dog’s unique dimensions.

 Other tips to enhance your dog’s wheelchair experience

Little things can mean a lot in the world of canine wheelchairs, including weight and strength, and the wheels themselves:

• The lighter the wheelchair, the better for dogs who struggle to get around.
• You also need to know that the design, material, and construction will be durable enough for safe, secure, long-term use. Aircraft-grade aluminum offers the ideal combination of these two attributes.
• Cheaper foam wheels aren’t likely to hold up well over rough terrain or lots of walks. Overly-hard or rigid wheels may prove sturdier, but they can make for a rough ride. Tough, air-filled wheels can provide reliable service while also giving your dog that extra degree of shock absorption to help him over those inevitable bumps in the road.

The getting-acquainted process

Your dog will need to get familiar with his new wheelchair before you simply strap him in and take him for a walk. Remember that he has no idea what this strange thing is, much less understand that it’s supposed to be strapped onto him. Take your time during this getting-acquainted process.

In fact, don’t even strap your dog into the wheelchair at first; simply leave it near his bed and let him accept it as a harmless, normal household item. Once he seems to have done so, you can try placing him in the harness and letting him get the feel of the wheelchair.

 

 Wheelchairs for dogs with mobility impairments

Sometimes wheelchairs are available for animals with hind limb paralysis, offering a welcome return of movement. In fact, thanks to such inventions, some dogs learn to jog, fetch and play as happily as they did before their injury! Bear in mind that the use of such equipment should be supervised by your vet and doesn’t suit all dogs, usually only lighter, smaller breeds. For disabled dogs that do adapt to wheels, inspired owners can assemble ramps for access to raised porches and other areas, letting their dog explore just as much as before.

Choosing a dog wheelchair

The kind of wheelchair you need will depend on your dog’s condition, mobility and size. There are lots of companies who supply wheels for dogs, and your vet should be able to recommend reputable providers. They should offer a range of wheelchairs and take the time to help you understand which is right for your dog.

The wheels should be specially made to fit your dog and allow them to walk and move about at the right height. There are also different types of wheels, depending on the terrain your dog will be travelling on and how long the walks are likely to be.

Finally, dogs with wheels have different options for harnesses and stirrups to support their legs. Some dog wheelchairs come with elastic stirrups so your dog can continue to use their legs if there is still some mobility. This will encourage your pooch to maintain muscle mass and mobility even when using the wheelchair.

Training a dog to use wheels

Once you’ve got a dog wheelchair, it’s time to get your dog used to using it. Remember that walking with wheels can be a big adjustment for a dog, as the device can be noisy and cumbersome, and it follows them around as they try and move.

Some dogs on wheels get used to it more or less immediately. This is common for dogs that have sustained paralysis or amputation, who have been frustrated by their inability to walk. But other dogs can be scared by the wheels and need more coaxing to get them to try walking in them.

The dog wheels should come with guidance form the manufacturer on how to get them going. But here are some other general pointers to make sure your dog adjusts quickly:

Start in a wide, open space

A wide, open space is the best option for when your dog’s trying out their wheels for the first time, but ideally this shouldn’t be on grass as this can be a tricky surface for wheels. And, if you try the wheels out indoors, they may bump into furniture and get stuck, which can distress the dog. Instead, choose a large paved area that’s free from distractions or possible stressors.

Let your dog investigate first

Assemble the wheelchair first and leave it lying around for the dog to investigate, sniff and get used to its presence. Try getting the dog used to the harness separately by putting it on for a few moments without the wheels, then taking it off again. Make sure all harnesses fit snugly and allow your dog time to adjust to the feeling of the straps. Then try putting your dog on the wheels. Take it slow, keep calm and provide lots of stroking and reassurance. It helps to distract them with treats while the wheelchair is being fitted.

Encourage them to move

When your dog is settled on the wheels, try and encourage them to start moving. It helps to use treats as a reward – hold them at nose level so the dog doesn’t need to stoop to pick them up. Hold a treat a few inches in front of the dog and if they come to it, hold the next treat a little further away.

Take it slowly

Once your dog starts moving, encourage them with plenty of praise. Never rush the process or allow the dog to become distressed. Start your dog on the wheels for small periods of time at first – just 5 to 10 minutes is enough – then allow them to rest. Increase this gradually to help build up more strength.
Tips for dogs with wheels

• Always supervise a dog on wheels so you can remove the device if they become tired, stressed or want to lie down.
• Associate the process with rewards like treats, especially at the beginning, and the dog should view it as a positive thing. It’s best to start with a hungry dog as they will work harder for the treats.
• Watch out for inclines, steps and things the wheels may get stuck in.
• Make sure the wheels are comfortable and well-fitting, and they have been adjusted properly to your dog.
• Be realistic about what your dog on wheels will achieve. There are limitations to a dog’s health and mobility even with a wheelchair, especially if they are older, injured or are recovering from serious surgery.Even just moving more easily around the garden is a positive step – don’t expect them to be able to complete long walks instantly.

Helping an injured dog get back on its feet is a vital part of the recovery process. A  dog wheelchair can play an integral role in a dog’s rehabilitation. A cart allows the dog to stand upright instead of lying down, and it can also improve recovery times. Adding a five to ten-minute cart walk into a dog’s treatment plan several times a day will help the dog physically and lift its spirits.

Many dogs in wheelchairs use them due to old age, weakness, or paralysis and are destined to use them for the rest of their lives. Others may only need to use the wheelchair for a couple of months or weeks even. Many vets and rehabilitation centers will encourage the use of a wheelchair for pets in recovery from surgery or injury.

Many dogs suffering from ACL or knee injuries will use a dog wheelchair as they heal. A wheelchair makes the process easier both for the dog and their family.

Using a Dog Wheelchair for Hind Leg Rehabilitation

 

While there are many different reasons a dog could need a wheelchair the most common causes are due to injury, paralysis, recovery from surgery, or disease. While not all of these can be reversed a set of dog wheels can assist them all and, in some scenarios, even assist in rehabilitation from an injury, surgery, or in some cases paralysis from a neurological condition or birth defect.

A dog wheelchair is an important rehab tool for dogs with back leg injuries or recovery. Here are some of the most common cases a dog could use a wheelchair to help with rehabilitation.

Dog Wheelchair and Therapy: How does it work?

 

A dog wheelchair is considered a mobility aid. The primary function of a wheelchair is to make it easier for a dog to walk. A dog may need a wheelchair due to an injury, weak hind legs, or a medical condition impacting its ability to walk (such as DM or IVDD).  Wheelchair use isn’t limited to only paralyzed pets. A wheelchair can be incredibly beneficial for dogs with knee injuries, during post-surgical recovery, and those with painful joint conditions.

The two most common wheelchair styles used in therapy include:

• Rear Wheelchair for supporting a pet’s back legs
• Full Support Wheelchair provides support to all four limbs

The cart encourages walking by reducing the weight the pet places on its weak legs. In addition, the rear wheelchair’s support system supports underneath the pet’s pelvis with the cart’s wheels in line with the dog’s hips allowing them to use their hind legs without straining themselves. When used properly a wheelchair helps dog rebuild muscles in their legs and regain their strength through continued exercise.

Dogs using a quad cart will receive the same support in the hind end while also aiding the front legs. The front leg support is directly under the dog’s chest, with the front wheels in line with the shoulders. By assisting the front and back legs simultaneously, the dog receives balanced support that should make it easier for them to stand and walk. In addition, a 4-wheel cart will allow for more movement and encourage weight bearing earlier in a pet’s recovery. Full-support wheelchairs are especially beneficial for dogs recovering from injury or surgery.

 

The Benefits of Wheelchair Use During Rehabilitation

 

For dogs in physical therapy, the wheelchair assists them during their training, helping them to stand and supporting them as they move. The goal for many pets in rehab is to strengthen their legs and build up the dog’s stamina. A canine cart can help pets achieve both of these goals.

When a dog first starts in their cart, expect them to tire quickly, remember they haven’t walked in a while. Although it will take time for the dog to rebuild its strength, we recommend starting with short walks that slowly increase in time. For example, most dogs begin with six to ten minutes of cart time on their first wheelchair walk. Then, as a general rule of thumb, allow at least two hours between walks. This gives your pet the time they need to rest and recover.

Physical benefits of using a dog wheelchair during rehabilitation include:

• Increased stamina
• Rebuild muscle strength
• Improved balance and support
• Minimize muscle loss
• Regain independence
• Encourage exercise
• Get the dog upright and mobile sooner
• Allows for weight bearing on injured or weak legs
• Makes it easier to get the dog outside to go to the bathroom

Neurological Conditions and Recovering from a Stroke

While the process of recovery is different based on many outside factors, the Wheelchairs have been able to assist in recovery from strokes and other neurological conditions. We have seen wheelchair based rehabilitation work for the below issues and conditions:

• Paralysis of one side of the body
• Immobility or paralysis in a single limb
• Paralysis in front both front limbs or rear limbs
• Weakened back legs
• Loss of Coordination
• Slipped Disc
• Stroke

While some dogs who suffer from paralysis on one side of the body tend to go in circles at first over time as they develop strength in their legs again as they won’t have to worry about bearing weight can then assist them in eventually using their weakened legs on their own over time.

Recovering from Injury or Surgery

 

Assistance in recovering from a physical injury or post-surgical are both very common reasons for the use of a dog or pet Wheelchair. Making sure your dog has the extra weight and pressure taken off of their injury or spot of their recent surgery is a huge part of the healing process. Making sure your dog is healing properly and safely, but still able to have some independence when walking around and going potty is an important part of recovery both physically and mentally for them.

Healing after an injury or surgery are some of the most common reasons why a dog would require a dog wheelchair. Some of the common injuries and surgeries that benefit from wheelchair rehabilitation include:

• ACL (Knee) Tear
• Post ACL repair or knee surgery
• Trauma to rear end
• Broken Legs
• IVDD (Spinal) related surgeries
• Hip Dysplasia
• THP – Total Hip Replacement Surgery
• Amputation of one or more Limbs

If a dog has just had an ACL repair surgery on their knee or even a Total Hip Replacement getting these dogs the movement they need while in recovery can be tough. As a dog heals it’s crucial that extra weight and pressure is not being placed on the injured leg. This is especially difficult in injured large dogs. Many large dogs benefit from using a wheelchair while they recover. Using a dog wheelchair allows dogs to remain mobile and can give families peace of mind that their dog can still be active while staying safe. Additionally, using a wheelchair eliminates the risk of pet parents injuring themselves or straining their back lifting a heavy dog.

At Home Physical Therapy with a Dog Wheelchair

You should always work closely with your rehab specialist to develop the right rehabilitation plan for your dog. There are many at-home treatments, therapies, and exercises to benefit your dog’s recovery. Always discuss any treatments with your dog’s medical professional before trying them at home. Some different kinds of physical therapy you can do with your dog while in their wheelchair are as follows:

• Strength Training
• Passive Range of Motion (PROM)
• Stand and Count
• Stand and Shift Weight

Does My Dog Need a Wheelchair? 

There can be several reasons why your dog may need a wheelchair. Almost always, a wheelchair can be beneficial when a loss of mobility occurs. This can occur due to injuries or diseases. Some of these are listed below.

• Soreness
• Accidental injuries
• Spinal problems
• Amputations
• Neurological issues

Besides the mobility issues listed above, some specific conditions can also mean that your dog will benefit greatly from a wheelchair.

Arthritis 

Arthritis is a disease in the joints and will lead to your dog suffering from stiff joints. This can make easy everyday tasks, like running or walking, painful for your dog. For some dogs, it may even become near impossible.

Besides supplements like Glucosamine and painkillers, it is essential to keep your dog active. Movement causes an increased production of joint fluid. Joint fluid is the fluid that lubricates the joints—making the joints less painful. A wheelchair for dogs can help get your pet running around again! This will mean less pain, greater quality of life, and a strengthening of the muscles.

Intervertebral Disc Diseases (IVDD) 

IVDD is a common condition. Some breeds are more predisposed to it, but it can affect all dogs of all ages. It happens when a displacement or deterioration happens in between the spinal discs. Depending on the severity, varying degrees of weakness or paralysis may happen in the legs. Most often, the hind legs.

If your dog is still in the early stages of IVDD, a doggy wheelchair may be used for rehabilitation. If the disease is more advanced, a wheelchair may become necessary for your dog to get around.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) 

DM is caused by a loss of the connection between your dog’s brain and its spinal cord. Most often, it appears in older dogs, above eight years of age. The most common symptom is wobbling and dragging of the feet.

There’s no known treatment for DM. Therefore a wheelchair for dogs may be the best option for this condition. Especially as dogs with DM won’t be experiencing any physical pain. A wheelchair will improve your dog’s mobility and general well being.

Whatever the reason is, if you find yourself with a dog that is struggling to walk or move, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. Both to control the condition and to discuss your options.

One of the things the veterinarian will discuss with you is your dog’s overall health. Is your dog still responsive, alert, happy, and want to be active? Then a wheelchair might be the perfect solution for you both. This can all be quite an overwhelming process. But don’t worry, continue reading to discover some of the things you need to research and remember.

How Dog Wheelchairs Work

The most important feature of a wheelchair for dogs is to bring your senior or disabled dog back on his feet. Exercise is always important to ensure you have a happy dog. This is where a wheelchair comes into the picture.

Many dogs with wheelchairs are paralyzed, but it isn’t the case for all dogs. Many wheelchair dogs still walk on all their paws – some can even stand on their own. The wheelchair’s point is to give your dog exactly the support needed – for its own unique needs.

Most wheelchairs for dogs support dogs from underneath the body in varying degrees. Some are carrying the legs and part of the body completely. Others only offer support to relieve the joints. They all have wheels attached underneath the dog, allowing it to move around freely.

Choosing the Right Wheelchair for Your Dog

When you and your veterinarian have decided your dog will benefit from a wheelchair, the next step comes. How do you choose the right wheelchair for your dog?

To determine precisely how much support your dog needs (rear- or full support), you can try the simple towel test.

• Place a towel underneath your dog’s lower abdomen and lift.
• Walk with a towel, lifting the rear.
• If your pet can walk the distance with the front legs. Then just rear-wheel support is needed.
• If your pet cannot walk the distance and the front legs give out. Then front wheels, or full support, is needed.

Rear Support Dog Wheelchairs 

Rear support wheelchairs are best for dogs with weak hind legs, injuries, or paralysis. Here the wheelchair will support your dog from the rear only. Meanwhile providing stability and balance. This means your dog is now free to run around, dragging himself forward with its front legs.

 

Full Support Wheelchairs

This kind of wheelchair has four wheels. It is best for dogs experiencing general weakness of the limbs, both front, and hind legs. It’s important to remember though, that your dog must be strong enough in its front legs to drive and steer the four wheels. It can, for example, be very beneficial for dogs with Degenerative Myelopathy (DM).

Key Wheelchair Features to Consider

Before you buy a wheelchair for your dog, there are some features you need to consider.

Size

Dogs come in all sizes. From the smallest Chihuahua to the largest Great Dane. It is important to choose a wheelchair that fits the size of your dog. Most wheelchairs luckily come in a variety of sizes. Most often, they also come with adjustable straps and harnesses.

Wheels 

What type of wheel to choose is a matter of taste. Generally, there are two types available: foam wheels or air-filled tires. The Air-filled ones give a more natural suspension and are great for active dogs. But, they can puncture. Foam wheels are the most popular type. They have a less natural suspension, but will never puncture. They’re also durable enough for any terrain.

Fully Adjustable 

A fully adjustable chair can be useful, especially if you have more than one dog using it. It can be adjusted with the push of a button. This allows for easy adjustment of height, length, and width. It also allows you to completely tune it to your dog’s needs.

Will My Dog Be Happy in a Wheelchair? 

Some owners worry if it’s cruel to put their dog in a wheelchair. But, it is never cruel to allow them a chance at a better quality of life and a reduction of pain, if we have the options.

The transition into a wheelchair is often easy for most dogs. They want to move around and see the world! Experience shows that most dogs quickly figure out that the wheelchair will help them get around.

Especially dogs who have been experiencing great pain when walking due to stiffness in their joints, tend to be extra happy to be able to move freely!

But, of course, some dogs don’t take to the wheelchair immediately. The age or personality of the dog can cause them to be wary of the chair. It’s thus important to give your dog the time and space it needs to make it comfortable around the chair.

Here are some tips to help your dog adjust. 

• Make the wheelchair a positive experience. Bring out the favorite treats or toys and encourage and praise your dog for being near the chair.
• Let your dog get comfortable around the chair. Leave the chair out in the open and let your dog get comfortable around it, without turning it into a big thing.
• Put on the harness. Without putting the wheels on, just let your dog get used to the feeling of the harness and the sounds it makes. Remember, lots of treats and praise here!
• Add the rest of the wheelchair. When your dog is comfortable with the harness and chair, it’s time to put the two things together. Move slowly away from your dog, treats in hand to encourage it to move with the chair.

Remember always to stay positive, and don’t rush your dog. Almost all dogs, will with time, come to love their wheelchair. As long as you remain calm and happy, your dog will often follow your lead. If you’re stressed, your dog knows, and it may make him anxious. If you’re frustrated or upset, take a break and get back to it later.

Can My Dog Go to the Bathroom in a Wheelchair?

Reading all of this, there might be one thing you’re worried about. Can your dog relieve itself while in the wheelchair? The short answer: Yes.

All wheelchairs for dogs, whether male or female, are made so your dog can relieve themselves. Even though they’re strapped into the wheelchair, some dogs may even be happier to relieve themselves when in the wheelchair. As they’re now standing upright and are moving around more. This encourages proper bodily functions and more natural options to relieve themselves.

Dog Wheelchair Alternatives

Some dogs may need a hand getting around, but a wheelchair might not be the right choice for them. In those cases that are alternatives available. One of the more common alternatives is a Dog Sling.

A Dog Sling or Walking Sling allows you to give your dog some support when it moves around. It’s a sack that you place around the dog’s stomach and grabs the two handles on each side. You can then manually support your dog’s weight while it walks. It is especially useful for dogs who need post-surgery rehabilitation.

Another option is a drag bag. This is a bag placed around your dog’s rear and hindlegs to protect them when they move around the house. The bag makes sure the dog avoids scratches and damage done to the hindlegs. Please note that the drag bag is not meant as a fulltime alternative to the wheelchair. A drag bag is an option when the wheelchair is not.

Once you decide to buy a wheelchair, it is also essential to make your home wheelchair friendly. Especially ramps are useful here. If you have any steps or small stairs in your house, these can quickly become a hindrance to your wheelchair-bound dog.

Small ramps allow your furry friend to wheel fast as lightning up and down, without having to stop. These ramps can also be very useful for your dog to get in or out of the car.

We all love our dogs dearly. Whenever we see them in pain and discomfort, we want to help. Unfortunately, for most though, carrying them around all day isn’t quite possible. Nor is it the most beneficial for your four-legged friends.

Just like us, they need exercise to stay happy and healthy. In many cases, a wheelchair for dogs can be a fantastic addition to the household. To have your furry friend wheeling around again, happy, and healthy.

Some dogs are born paralyzed, others may become paralyzed due to an accident or old age. Either way, if it happens to your pet, you’ll need a good dog wheelchair. Wheelchairs for dogs allow them to stay mobile, even without the use of hind legs.

Years ago, when a dog lost the use of his hind legs he would be euthanized. Now, buying one of these vet-recommended dog wheelchairs you can help your pet regain his quality of life after suffering such a traumatic loss.

Today, canine wheelchair has had a very scientific approach and it’s a big part of veterinary field. Not only was this development a huge advancement in veterinary medicine, it has also added years to lives of countless elderly dogs. Dog wheelchairs have been around for decades, but a lot of owners still don’t know much about them. In this article we compare the pros and cons of the best dog wheelchair brands.

What Are Some Signs Your Dog May Need A Wheelchair?

Your vet will be a great partner in determining if your dog would benefit from the use of a wheelchair or other mobility assistance device. Sometimes, a vet may advise against such a device, as in cases where they want the dog to build muscle for a temporary injury.

However, with some aging or permanent injuries, a wheelchair might be a dog’s best bet at staying mobile. If you see any of these signs, be sure to talk to your vet ASAP about a mobility device plan:

• Sudden change in behavior or irritability, especially when moving or putting weight on legs and joints
• Difficulty standing up
• Difficulty keeping balance
• Reluctance to go outside
• Fear or reluctance around stairs, uneven terrain, or slippery surfaces
• Weakness or muscle atrophy
• Paralysis

What Are Some Conditions That May Cause Difficulty Walking?

While the challenges of “old age” can often be a cause of difficulty walking for dogs, there are specific conditions that can cause these problems too.

They include:

• Arthritis
• Hip dysplasia
• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
• Degenerative myelopathy (DM)
• Neurological disorders (such as spinal muscular atrophy)
• Paralysis
• Knee and ACL injuries
• Surgical recovery
• Injury due to accident or trauma
• Spinal problems
• Amputation

How Can You Evaluate If Your Dog May Benefit From A Mobility Aid?

One “easy” way to evaluate your dog at home is the towel test, which you can see in the video above. This simple method works by putting a towel flat underneath your dog’s abdomen, lifting lightly, and encouraging them to walk. Their backs should be flat; do not elevate their hind end too much — just barely off the ground.

If they can walk with their front legs just fine while you’re supporting their back end, then they only need rear support, either from a wheelchair or a different option.

If their front legs splay or buckle, or if they still have trouble walking while you’re supporting their hind end, then they may benefit from more of a full-body support.

What Are Different Mobility Aid Options?

There are many great options for mobility aids for your pet. In addition to the “towel test” described above, working with your vet can help you determine the best option for your dog.

A lot may also depend on the size of your dog; for example, size can determine whether it’s realistic to support their weight with a lifted option.

There are two basic categories of mobility devices for dogs: wheelchairs or carts and slings or harnesses.

There are a few sub-categories within those, depending on how much help your dog needs.

Wheelchairs

For wheelchairs, if your dog only needs support of their back end, then a two-wheel rear mobility device would be ideal. This way, your dog still gets full exercise of their front limbs without the additional stress and strain of dragging their hind end.

If your dog struggles with walking on their front end, too, including splayed or buckling limbs, then a four-wheel wheelchair would best suit them. This provides support throughout their entire body while still allowing them some level of exercise and freedom of mobility.

Harnesses

As with wheelchairs, there are different levels of support with harnesses or slings. Some can support just the back end, while some can support the entire body.

If your dog only needs support in the back, a sling that goes around their abdomen, much like the “towel test” can be a versatile, easy option.

If your dog needs more complete support, a full-body harness can provide varying levels of support, depending on the option you choose. Some have multiple handles, so you can adjust which end of your dog you’re supporting more, which can be helpful in situations like going up stairs.

Harnesses may be a more realistic option for smaller dogs, as it could be difficult to lift a larger dog’s weight; however, you could consider it a built-in workout for yourself, too!

How Do You Get A Wheelchair Or Other Mobility Aid For Your Dog?

In addition to helping you evaluate your dog’s level of need, your vet may be able to connect you to a vendor or designer of dog wheelchairs.

Many of the brands list sizing and mobility-need guides on their websites, and, even better, they provide contact info so you can contact them for a personalized recommendation.

How Can You Help Your Dog Adjust To A Wheelchair?

It’s important to supervise your dog while they’re using their wheelchair, in case they show fatigue or want to lie down.

To get them started, it’s best to try two ten-minute intervals for the first few days. This will help your dog get acclimated without causing excess stress or exhaustion.

Even after your dog is familiar with the wheelchair, these devices are not intended for all-day use. It’s best to use them for limited sessions of exercise, socialization, exploration, or playing, making sure to let your dog rest outside of those sessions.

If your dog had an energetic session, they’re likely ready to rest and lie down, anyway. While some smaller dogs may be able to lie down in their wheelchairs, larger dogs will not, and it’s not really recommended, anyway.

Also, be sure to watch out for steep inclines, as well as obstacles or surfaces that may get the wheels stuck. Some of this may be discovered through trial and error. As long as you’re watching your dog, you should be able to help them out of a tricky situation before they’d get seriously hurt.

A difficult concept for a lot of pet parents to fathom is quality of life. Your vet can help you determine if a mobility device is best for your pet, or if there are more severe ailments involved and euthanasia might be a kinder option.

However, if your dog still shows a zest for life and general happiness, there’s no reason mobility difficulty needs to stop them. Mobility devices can be fantastic tools to give your dog freedom to explore the world.

They’re also great physical therapy devices when used correctly. If your dog wasn’t able to walk much without a device, they’ll still get exercise and build muscle while using a device.

These devices are specially designed to allow your dog to go potty, too, without leaving your dog stuck in an uncomfortable mess.

There are other important steps you can take to make your dog more comfortable, as well. You can add supplements that help with arthritis and joint pain into their diet, as well as ensuring their regular food is targeted for seniors.

Adding a ramp for areas where your dog usually has to jump, like the couch or bed, will also decrease the stress on their joints. You can add some gentle massage into your cuddle sessions for added pain relief.

With the right tools, you can help your senior dog enjoy their golden years as much as you enjoy them. Once they’re used to their wheelchair or sling, they may hardly notice a difference from their earlier years. After all, there are so many smells and sights to chase outside; all they’ll focus on is the journey!

If your dog has mobility issues then a dog wheelchair may be the best solution. We want you to know that physical limitations are not the end to mobility. Many dog owners end up euthanizing their dogs, which isn’t the solution. Many people do not know that dog wheelchairs even exist.

If your dog has degenerative myelopathy you can at least prolong the quality of their life, although there is still no cure. On the other hand, with a condition like hip dysplasia, your dog can still live a very long and active life with a dog wheelchair. These issues can be caused by old age, birth defects, accidents or other disorders that are both physical and also mental health related.

What will a dog wheelchair help with?

• Neurological problems like osteomyelitis degenerative myelopathy and strokes
• Ligamentous injury such as PCL or ACL
• Thoracic or Lumbar disc injury
• Hip Dysplasia
• Arthritis
• Fractured spine
• Cervical spondymyelopathy (CSM) or wobbler syndrome
• Multiple injury rehabilitation
• Unilateral or bilateral forelimb weakness
• Amputations
• Instability or deformity in the forelimbs or on all four legs
• Any other condition that results in rear leg pain or weakness

What breeds of dogs could need a dog wheelchair?

Every breed of dog could end up needing a dog wheelchair. Older dogs and certain breeds are more susceptible to certain issues. There are common breeds of dogs such as a Dachshund that is prone to back problems such as IVDD. A larger breed of dog like a Golden Retriever would be more prone to hip dysplasia, since it is more common in larger dogs. Almost any size dog can use a dog wheelchair. Exercise is important to help keep your dog at a healthy weight. This will also help with pain management from conditions such as arthritis.

What types of dog wheelchair could my dog use?

Dog wheelchairs are used for dogs that have front, rear or both front and rear leg mobility issues. Most dogs are more prone to rear leg issues and would need a dog wheelchair for back legs. If your dog does not have full front leg strength then you should get a full support dog wheelchair.

These dog wheelchairs are built for performance without sacrificing the comfort you would expect for your dog. These dog wheelchairs are designed and tested by a K9 Orthopedic Surgeon. They are ultra-lightweight, fully adjustable, have convertible support and easy to assemble. Get your dog active again to live a happier and healthier life!

Where to find dog wheelchairs

K9 Carts, k9carts.com

My Pets Brace, mypetsbrace.com

Walkin’ Wheels, handicappedpets.com

 

While some dogs will need to use a wheelchair for the rest of their lives, many have been able to use it to assist in rehabbing their condition. While there is no shame in the need for a dog wheelchair, dogs in them can be just as happy as dogs who are not using one to be able to rehabilitate your dog to grant them their mobility again is a key component in why dog wheelchairs are so important. Whether recovering from surgery or a neurological condition, using a dog wheelchair as part of your dog’s rehabilitation plan with your Vet or Rehab Specialist is a great way to help your dog through the process safely and with support.

DR AMIT BHARDWAJ, CANINE CONSULTANT,PUNE

IMAGE-CREDIT-GOOGLE