In your life, you might face a situation where you have to decide to bring a wheelchair for your dog due to his disability or let him scroll on the ground.
You are not alone; many pet parents face the difficult decision to purchase a dog wheelchair for their pup. They are not too expensive but seeing your dog in the wheelchair is not a pleasant experience.
Many people wonder if they’re worth it in the long run. For example, wheelchair users report improved dogs’ quality of life and mobility after using them, but is this true for all dogs?
Recent studies have shown that although some dogs benefit from being fitted with a dog wheelchair, others may find themselves worse off. To help you decide on what’s best for your pup, we’ve compiled answers to these frequently asked questions:
- What is a dog wheelchair?
- How do I know if my dog needs one?
- Can’t my vet prescribe something instead?
- How much will it cost?
What is a dog wheelchair?
A wheelchair for dogs looks like an open box that sits underneath the dog’s body, with two wheels attached to the front legs. Some models look more like a sleeve for your pet’s legs (i.e., Walkin’ Wheels).
There are two types of dog wheelchairs, one that has wheels at the place of front legs and the other with the wheel at the backside to replace the function of back legs.
They help immobilize your dog’s legs so that he can get the exercise and support he needs to go on.
Your veterinarian will provide you with a custom fit, and they might even recommend additional items such as a sling or harness to help keep your pup in the chair.
How do I know if my dog needs this?
If your pet has an injury that makes it difficult to walk, such as a broken leg, he might benefit from the use of a wheelchair.
Additionally, dogs who have trouble walking due to arthritis or other types of conditions might also find relief by using a dog wheelchair.
Can’t my vet prescribe something instead?
It’s certainly possible for your pup to be prescribed medication, but it might not always be the best course of treatment.
Pet parents sometimes turn to dog wheelchairs because their dogs are having trouble walking. This symptom shouldn’t be overlooked, especially when your pet’s legs or hips may cause him pain from his movement.
Additionally, large dog breeds might be too heavy for owners to carry, and your pup might find it challenging to get around on his own.
How much will a wheelchair for dogs cost?
The price of a dog wheelchair can vary depending on the supplier, but you should expect to pay between $350 – $600.
How Long Can A Dog Stay In A Wheelchair?
The amount of time that your dog will need to be in a wheelchair depends on many factors: his age, weight, injury, and mobility.
In general, older dogs might have a more challenging time adjusting to the feel of the wheels beneath their legs.
If you have an older pup suffering from hip dysplasia or arthritis, but he’s not used to walking with a wheelchair, he might not be able to walk for extended periods.
Quality Of Life For Dogs In Wheelchairs
The answer to this question depends on your pet. For example, some dogs have an easier time getting around with a wheelchair, while others might not be so happy being in one.
Dogs that are used to walking, running, and playing outside find the confinement of a dog wheelchair frustrating at first because they’re unable to do what comes naturally to them.
How Do Dogs In Wheelchairs Poop?
Your pet’s rear legs might be immobile, but there are ways to make sure that your dog can get out of his wheelchair in time.
For example, you can place newspapers under his bum while he sits. If your pup needs to go outside for a bathroom break, this will help him avoid getting the wheels dirty.
If you have a male dog that’s still intact, he might also be able to use the bathroom by standing up.
With some basic training, your pup will get used to his wheelchair, and you’ll both adjust to this new way of life.
The Problem Of Owners That Don’t Adjust
Unfortunately, there are some cases where pet owners don’t give their dogs the care and attention they deserve.
For example, people might place a dog in a wheelchair but not adjust the straps to be an effective way of getting around.
If you have any concerns about your pup wearing a wheelchair, your veterinarian will help to fine-tune the fit and show you how to place it on your pet.
From what we know, dogs in wheelchairs are not something new anymore, and they don’t look cruel at all; we hope that people who think this way will change their minds.
Dog Wheelchair and Disabled Animal Common Myths
Here are some common myths that need to be clear before moving forward:
Disabled Animals Are Harder To Care For
It’s not true; disabled or not, your pet needs the same amount of attention and care.
This is maybe one of the most dangerous myths you can ever hear about. Animals with disabilities feel pain just like us; they need to be treated even better than pets without disabilities because they require a lot of help.
They can’t do things on their own and need your attention constantly. Disabled pets are not less lovable than any other pet. They ask for more time and patience from you.
Dogs Can’t Get Enough Exercise In A Dog Wheelchair.
Just because your pup is in a wheelchair doesn’t mean that he’s going to be less active.
In fact, with the proper training and time to get used to his new wheels, he might have a better chance of exercising while not putting pressure on his legs.
Most dogs can easily walk or run around even when they’re in a wheelchair!
Disabled Animals Become More Aggressive
Studies have shown that disabled dogs are more loving and affectionate than other pets.
This myth might come along with the idea that disabled dogs have some mental health issues, but there is no evidence to prove this statement.
Disabled pets become aggressive only when their owners cruelly treat them, so if you want to have the sweetest best friend in your arms, own a pet that’s different and disabled.
Dog Wheelchairs Don’t Work For Old Dogs.
Studies have shown that dogs as old as 16 years of age can use a wheelchair, and they’re able to walk more often than without it.
Older pets, just like younger dogs, become more independent and don’t need so much attention from their owners.
Being in a wheelchair makes them feel safe and secure no matter how old they are.
Disabled Animals Need To Go To The Vet More And Get Sick More Often
Every pet needs to go to the veterinarian but more often than usual? You might think that disabled pets are weaker in some parts because their handicapped, but this is not true.
All animals need to be monitored by their veterinarians to treat any injuries or sicknesses they might have. Most of the time, people who adopt pets with disabilities assume because they want to give all their love and attention.
Injured Dogs Using A Wheelchair Get Better Slower
If your pup is injured and using a wheelchair, you might think he’s not getting better.
But, the truth is that it doesn’t matter if your pet is in a wheelchair or not; he needs to recover on his own time.
He needs to be monitored by his veterinarian regularly because this way, they’ll know what’s happening to his body.
A dog wheelchair is the best thing you can ever give your pup if he’s having trouble walking or moving around on his own because it will make him feel safe, secure, and loved.
The whole process of training your pup to move around in a wheelchair might seem weird at first, but after time you’ll become more experienced and know how to help your pet in a wheelchair.
If you need more information about dogs in wheelchairs, visits the following pages:
Disabled Animals Have A Bad Quality Of Life
Every pet deserves to have a good and safe life regardless of his condition; just because he’s not feeling well doesn’t mean that you should neglect him.
If your dog is in a wheelchair, you can still give them all the love and attention they deserve! Disabled pets need more love from their owners.
You Can’t Use A Wheelchair With Big Dogs.
This is another myth that’s not even close to the truth. Although it might take more time to train your dog, you can take him out for a walk or run around the house without any problems once he gets used to it.
How Dog Wheelchairs Work
A wheelchair for dogs is more of a support than anything else. It’s designed to help your pet regain his independence.
It will help him walk around, sit down and stand up by himself without issues with his legs or muscles.
An all-terrain wheelchair has the best design because not only does it have wheels but also supports the back for your pet to lean on when he’s tired of moving around.
Two types of wheelchairs fit at the front to support the front legs, and the other fits at the back to move the back, which legs cannot move.
Dog Wheelchairs Help Them Recover Faster
The only way your dog will recover faster is when you help him by giving him all the love and support he deserves.
It’s not his fault that he’s in this condition, so don’t treat him like he doesn’t deserve your affection because it will just make things harder for both of you.
Animal Friends For Disabled Pets
You might think that a disabled pets will be alone most of the time because their owners don’t have enough time to take care of them, but this is incorrect.
Disabled animals need more love and attention from their owners because they’re going through a rough time in life.
FAQ
Will A Wheelchair Add To Your Dog’s Life?
The answer to this question is yes. A wheelchair will add so much joy and happiness to your pup’s life because it will not only help him get around but also gives him more independence!
When Does A Dog Need A Wheelchair?
A dog can use a wheelchair any time he needs it because it will help him do what other dogs without disabilities are doing.
Will My Dog Like The Wheelchair?
It might take some time for your dog to get used to it, but as long as you offer him all the love and support, he needs he will eventually learn to move around with ease.
If Your Dog Has Degenerative Myelopathy, Will A Wheelchair Help?
Yes! A wheelchair will not only help your dog walk around without any problems but also take care of his back and make him feel safe and secure.
Does My Dog Need To Be Trained For A Wheelchair?
This all depends on your dog, some dogs will get used to it very fast, and others might need a little bit of training to get started.
How Long Can A Dog Stay In A Wheelchair?
Depending on your dog’s condition, he can stay in a wheelchair for as long as he wants because there are no limits.
If Your Dog Has Hip Dysplasia Will A Wheelchair Help?
A wheelchair can help any dog with hip dysplasia because it’s designed to take the weight off his back and legs so he can move around without any issues.