5 Reasons Why Dogs Need Wheelchairs Too

Do dogs need wheelchairs?

When dogs get older, they often find it challenging to move around, which could affect their health negatively. As a loving canine mum or dad, it can be stressful on you seeing your pup finding it hard to move around. At some point in time, they no longer have the ability to play games such as fetch or go chasing after a mouse.

When your dog reaches the stage where it needs assistance moving around, it is your responsibility as a responsible parent to help them out. At this point, it may be wise to invest in dog wheels to make getting around a lot easier for your pooch. The first thing you need to do when you notice that your pet has difficulties walking is to speak to a vet. They are best equipped to help you decide on whether a wheelchair is suitable and which line of action to take.

If you are in the market for a movement aid for your pet, you can click here to find dog wheelchairs that are worth spending on. If you are still contemplating if a wheelchair will be the right investment, below are five reasons why dogs need one. 

1. Help with Moving Around 

Even with humans, when they get older, they may need help getting from place to place, and a wheelchair could be useful then. So it is with animals too. 

Dogs have special movement aids that come designed as a wheelchair for them to move about freely without any constraints. Without one, you will have to arrange how to move your pet around. And if you happen to be a busy person with little time on your hands, your dog’s health condition could quickly deteriorate. 

Having a walking aid can help your pooch with keeping up with their regular routines without much supervision from the owners. You also don’t have to worry about them getting injured or their situation worsening when there are safety measures in place. 

2. Stay Fit 

Older dogs need to keep up with a daily fitness routine. This usually involves walking, running, climbing, and jumping about. When they are injured or disabled due to a disease, it becomes difficult for them to exercise. With wheels, they can quickly move around and work out their muscles. This also helps to relieve joint and muscle pain while also stabilizing their heart rate. The link below has some useful tips on how to support your dog in staying fit. 

https://www.purina.co.uk/dogs/health-and-nutrition/dogs-with-special-needs/supporting-dog-on-wheels

You will need to help your pet stay fit once they get older. This includes getting them the right type of diet and assisting with providing fitness tools and gear to help improve their condition. And a wheelchair could be the solution that your dog needs. When in the market for a wheelchair, you will need to get one that best suits their situation and helps them exercise as they move around. 

3. Relieve Pain and Stress 

Dogs find it difficult to move around when they get older due to the pain they experience in their joint and muscles. It could also be that they suffered a terrible injury that could put them in a great deal of stress. Providing your dog with a wheelchair can significantly reduce the pain they experience when moving from place to place. 

When dogs don’t move around, they quickly get depressed, which could be harmful if they have an underlying medical condition as well. When they are mobile, they are happier and active, which could quickly improve their health. If you are seriously thinking of how to rehabilitate your aged or sick dog and get them interested in their routine, then you may want to get them a wheelchair. 

4. Get Better 

If your pet was in an accident where they injured their legs and are bedridden, a wheelchair could help get them back on their feet. Instead of being bedridden, they get to move about, and gradually get back into shape. This could help with improving their confidence and get them in the right wellness state. 

It becomes easier for them to respond to treatment when they are in the right frame of mind. It may also be best to include therapy in your treatment, especially if your dog was involved in a nasty accident. You will have to speak with your vet, who will be in a better position to advise you on the best form of treatment. 

5. Reduce Tension

As a dog lover, you almost certainly cannot avoid the tension when you see your pet in pain. It can be likened to seeing your loved one in a precarious condition, and this could affect you too psychologically. 

Providing your pet with a walking aid, and all the necessary treatment they need can also help you relax. It can be more difficult for you if you’ve watched your dog grow from a puppy till adulthood, and it is understandable if you feel depressed too when your dog finds it difficult to move around. With a wheelchair, your dog can move around freely, and go about their routine, which can help reduce tension for both pet and owner. 

Final Note 

When shopping for a suitable wheelchair for dogs, you want to get one that is designed for their condition. There are different types of support wheelchairs, and they include the rear support intended for the back legs and the full support options that act like a quad. It is best to speak with your vet, who will help you decide on a suitable one for your dog.