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Using a wheelchair can help pets regain mobility, leading to a happier and more independent life. Seeing a pet take their first steps in their new cart is an incredible one. It’s easy to see the physical transformation and the true impact that a wheelchair can have for your dog and the entire family.
There are several reasons why a dog may need a wheelchair besides being paralyzed. For instance, a puppy born with a neurological condition, a dog recovering from an injury, or a senior dog whose back legs are weakening, all could benefit from a mobility device.
Mobility Conditions that Impair Strength:
- Difficulty walking for any reason.
- Hind end weakness
- Degenerative Myelopathy
- Hip Dysplasia
- Arthritis
- Paralysis
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Recovery from surgery or traumatic injury
- Rehabilitation for knee, spine, or hip
Although these are a few of the most common canine conditions that affect a dog’s mobility there are many reasons why a dog may lose strength in their back legs. If your pet is showing any changes in their mobility, they must be seen by a veterinarian right away. Only your vet can properly diagnose your best friend, and help them get the care they need.
Dog Wheelchair Benefits Explained
Dogs Get the Exercise They Need
Dogs want to be active, and a dog wheelchair is a great way to give them back their independence. If your pet is facing mobility issues, a wheelchair can help them enjoy their favorite activities again. With a wheelchair, they can regain their freedom of movement and get back to their regular routine. You don’t have to limit your dog to short bathroom breaks outside, as they can now enjoy long walks or hikes without getting tired. Walkin’ Wheels wheelchairs work well for long-term use, as they help keep dogs active, or short-term rehabilitative use to help a dog recover from an injury or surgery.
Improved Physical Health
Wheelchairs are life-changing tools. The physical advantages that a wheelchair provides can benefit all pets experiencing mobility challenges, regardless of their age or condition.
How does a dog wheelchair help?
- Increase stamina and endurance.
- Build strength and flexibility.
- Weight loss in overweight pets
- Maintain and build muscle tone in pets who have weakened.
- Improved circulation
- Limit muscle loss
Start using mobility support early. Don’t wait. A dog does not have to be paralyzed to benefit from using a wheelchair. Even dogs who are in the early stages of mobility loss can improve their physical health with the help of a mobility aide. Wheelchairs are designed to provide support and stability and encourage an active lifestyle.
Even dogs that are starting to show signs of weakness and loss of balance can benefit from using a rear dog wheelchair. By using the wheelchair, pets can stand on all four legs and get the support they need to remove excess weight from their aching joints, while also maintaining balance and exercising their legs.
If an older pet’s health is deteriorating, it’s best to get them mobility assistance early in order to maximize their function, comfort, and overall quality of life.
Emotional Transformation
Down dogs who were once highly active can become visibly depressed. They still want to do all their favorite activities; their inability to walk on their own can be disheartening and frustrating. All that changes when they get their wheelchair. The first time a dog gets into their wheelchair and realizes they can stand and walk again, there is a complete transformation. The light turns on into their eyes. The ability to run, play, and engage with their family again can completely change a pet’s outlook.