Whether due to an accident, a genetic disease or old age, a dog can find itself in a handicap situation. This can make daily life difficult for both the animal and its owner. Thanks to certain devices, however, it is entirely possible to live with a dog suffering from a disability.
The access ramp: essential equipment for your disabled dog
The first tool you need to live with your animal disabled pet is an access ramp. She allows to facilitate travel of your dog. He can use it to get on the sofa, on your bed or even in your car without making too much effort. In this way, the risk of injury linked to poor posture is considerably reduced.
This equipment also allows you to not have to carry your dog every time you want to move him. You therefore reduce the risk of back pain, especially if your companion is heavy. The access ramp therefore helps to improve your life with your disabled dog. On the market, there are several models of dog access ramps offered by different brands. For example, you can opt for a ramp at Polytrans or from any other quality online pet store to have a product that will meet your needs. However, remember to take into account certain criteria such as:
- the maximum weight supported by the ramp,
- the non-slip material,
- practicality,
- the dimensions of the ramp.
You will thus be assured of choosing equipment adapted to your dog. Also think about buy a fairly light model to move it easily.
The bowl holder for easier feeding
A disabled dog or dog with osteoarthritis problems may have difficulty bending its neck to reach his bowl on the ground. In addition to having difficulty feeding, he may encounter swallowing and digestion problems. This is why it is recommended to use a bowl holder to serve him his kibble and water. This tool helps relieve pain since the dog adopt a more upright posture to eat. Additionally, with raised bowls, digestive problems are reduced because your pet can easily swallow their food. However, be careful to adjust the bowl holder to the correct height. It may be helpful to check with your veterinarian to find the model that is right for you. dog.
Opt for an orthopedic dog bed
Whatever the type of disability from which your pet suffers, the use of an orthopedic bed will relieve its pain. Generally made of memory foam, an orthopedic basket offers good support for joints. This equipment allows you to improve your sleep, but also your health. To choose your orthopedic bed, you must pay attention to the quality of the foam. A good memory foam should not sag after a few uses. Opt for a basket with a sufficiently large surface area so that your pet can lie down without discomfort. For better hygiene, consider choosing beds with a removable, machine-washable cover.
Use a harness to make walking easier for your disabled dog
The harness is a piece of support equipment that most often allows the dog’s hindquarters to be raised in order to make it easier to move around. It is essential to allow your dog to take his usual walks, which is particularly important for his well-being. Harnesses are generally made from a soft material to provide optimal comfort to the dog.
In addition, they have reinforced handles as well as height-adjustable lifting straps. This guarantees you excellent comfort of use. If your pet has a front leg disability, you can also opt for a front support harness, which is very comfortable and chest support aid of the animal. Some models are modular. They can therefore support your dog’s entire body, front or rear.
The trolley to strengthen the autonomy of your disabled dog
The disabled dog cart is similar to a wheelchair. Its role is to restore maximum autonomy to your animal. Unlike the harness, you will not need to support it while it moves. The cart allows you to protect the dog’s fragile joints, but it also has other benefits for your health. First of all, it helps to reduce the risk of decubitus ulcers and to increase the muscle tone of its non-disabled legs. Your dog will be able to start walking, running and playing with you like before. This tool allows him to live as if he were not disabled. To facilitate the use of this equipment, consider arranging your interior by creating access for the wheels.
*Updated 22 July 2024
