A disabled dog is still often looked at critically and asked whether life is worth living at all. Very often I had to face this question with Snowy. But I clearly say YES! Snowy had her handicaps, but over the years we have always adapted our lives and our daily routine. Many people are uncertain and afraid and worried about adopting a dog with a handicap. But dog owners are also overwhelmed when their own dog has a handicap after an illness such as a slipped disc or an accident. No wonder, so much changes in everyday life and you have to rearrange your life and adjust to the special needs of the dog. This is also the case, for example, when a barrel is amputated.
However, there are now many – often very simple things and tools – with which you can facilitate your life together and the everyday life of your dog. So I’ve put together a whole bunch of ideas and possibilities for you.
There are so many things you can do to make everyday life easier for your handicap dog:
Many dog people do not even know what there is now everything on offer for older or handicapped dogs. Even if there are still people who think this is exaggerated – “it is still a dog” – I think it is important for your dog but also for you that you make your everyday life as easy as possible. This saves time and energy for great joint activities.
- elevated water/feed bowl – I know, the wolf doesn’t get his rabbit served on the tree trunk either so he doesn’t have to bend over. But I’m sure you can imagine what a relief an elevated food bar would be for your dog
- line the “highways” in the house or apartment that your dog uses most to get around with non-slip carpet or something similar. This gives him support and prevents falls.
- a warming coat in winter – protects your dog from getting cold, keeps joints and muscles supple and prevents tension.
Also with this you help your dog: disabled dog
- orthopedic dog beds – good sleep is important for every dog. But especially for older, sick and handicapped dogs it is very important to be stored in a way that is easy on the joints. Your dog not only lies perfectly, but also the blood circulation is optimal and pain can be relieved and avoided.
- Dog ramps for the car – you can lift a small dog into the car. If you have a larger dog, I recommend a dog ramp that your dog can safely get in and out of the car on.
- Stairs for the sofa – your dog likes to cuddle with you on the sofa or in bed? With a handicap, the climb up and also the climb down quickly becomes an insurmountable obstacle and falls are inevitable. For this, there are now great stairs that allow your dog to get on and off safely and comfortably.
- Carriers when climbing stairs – a small dog can be carried comfortably, but if the dog is larger or heavier it can quickly become dangerous for you and your dog. A stretcher relieves both of you and allows you to climb stairs easily and safely.
Orthopedic technology has a wide range of solutions ready:
Orthopedic technology for dogs?! There is such a thing? Yes, and it is developing rapidly. Inspired by the human sector, many possibilities have been developed in recent years to support your dog with orthopedic technology. Thus, the following products are widely used today. In most cases, a custom fit is advisable for optimal relief and fit.
- Bandages
- Orthotics
- Prostheses
- Hunderolli
A physical therapist can assist your dog with:
Even if your dog suffers from a permanent handicap, it is useful and important to support your dog with physiotherapy and exercise therapy. This does not “eliminate” the handicap. But you have the opportunity to release tension that inevitably results from changes in movement patterns. You can also achieve the most even musculature and relieve the joints. These are some areas from physical therapy that can help your dog.
- Massages and passive movement exercises
- Laser
- Electrotherapy
- Hydrotherapy
- Acupuncture
- Manual therapy forms
There are ways you can support your dog yourself with exercises and measures from physiotherapy:
Regular visits to your trusted physio are important, no question. But it is at least as important that you support your dog as best you can in the time in between. After appropriate professional instruction, you can, for example, carry out the following measures yourself:
- relaxing massages
- passive movement exercises
- active exercises for good musculature, mobility, coordination, balance and body awareness
You see, life with a handicap dog certainly presents one with one challenge or another. However, veterinary and dog supplies today offer a wide range of options to make life easier for you and your dog.
Do you have a handicap dog and even more tips on how to make everyday life easier? Then please share them for me and other dog owners in the comments!
All the love, your Tina
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