Providing a wheelchair for a paralyzed dog restores its freedom and enhances its quality of life. Rather than imposing limitations, owning a dog wheelchair can offer newfound mobility and independence.
Taking care of a dog in a wheelchair may require extra effort and present additional challenges. However, the positive impact that a wheelchair can have on your dog’s life is significant and undeniable.
Here are some of the ways that a wheelchair can change your dog’s life for the better!
Your Dog’s Independence
First and foremost, it allows them to regain their mobility and independence, which can greatly improve their quality of life. Whether your dog has a temporary injury or a permanent disability, a wheelchair can help them get around with ease.
For pet parents caring for a special needs dog, one of the biggest challenges is taking their dog outside for a walk. Without a wheelchair, you must carry, support, and lift your dog to get them outside to pee or poop. A dog wheelchair solves all of that for you. Not only does a wheelchair support your dog, but the cart allows them to stand, run, and walk without your assistance.
A Positive Impact on Your Dog’s Health
Additionally, using a dog wheelchair can provide important health benefits. It can help prevent muscle atrophy, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of pressure sores. By allowing your dog to continue exercising and exploring their environment, a wheelchair can also help maintain its mental and emotional well-being.
Allow Them to Exercise
A dog’s ability to exercise is crucial for their overall health and well-being. And in dogs with Degenerative Myelopathy, regular exercise has been shown to slow down the progression of the disease.
Staying active is so important for a dog with mobility loss. Without a cart, a dog with weak or paralyzed back legs will be prone to long periods of inactivity, which can cause them to gain weight and lose muscle mass. A dog wheelchair encourages them to move more, which can limit muscle atrophy and help your dog to maintain the strength they have. For dogs recovering from an injury their cart can be a critical part of their rehabilitation, and help them to strengthen their muscles and endurance.
Lift Your Dog’s Spirits
Although you will see a physical transformation when a dog gets their new wheelchair, many pet parents are surprised by the emotional transformation in their dog. A spark comes back in their eyes, puppy smiles abound, and a general excitement to play again.
Many senior dogs and those struggling with mobility can easily become depressed. Often the change of behavior happens gradually and is discounted as a natural part of the aging process. But long periods of inactivity can cause a dog to sleep more often and disengage. Giving your dog a cart gets them back on their feet and allows them to get back to all the things they love.
Benefits of a Dog Wheelchair for the Pet Parent
Finally, a dog wheelchair can also benefit pet owners by making it easier to care for their furry friends. It can reduce the amount of lifting and carrying required, making it less stressful on the owner’s back and joints. It can also make it easier to take your dog on walks and outings, allowing the two of you to continue enjoying life together.
