Is My Dog Ready for a Wheelchair?

  Dogs can't talk and tell us their feeling. Therefore dog parents need to pay attention to the subtle changes in their dog's daily behavior, so they could find the abnormalities in time. Determing whether your dog needs a wheelchair is a difficult choice for most of dog parents. In addition, there are much factors to consider because every dog is different. But with a better understanding of your dogs symtoms and actions, you would better decide if your dog needs a wheelchair?

Signs of Mobility Loss

• Struggling to Stand Up

• Swaying Hind End

• Occasionally loses its balance

• Refusing to Climb Up or Down the Stairs

• Unwillingness to Jump on Furniture or into a Car

• Scraping Nails or Dragging Paws

• Dog tires quickly on their daily walk

Common Disease Causes of Mobility Problems in Dogs

• Arthritis

• Hip Dysplasia

• Intervertebral Disc Disease or IVDD

• Degenerative Myelopathy or DM

• Neurological Disorders

• Sudden Paralysis

• Knee and ACL Injuries

• Luxating Patella

• Surgical Recovery

• Injury due to accident or trauma

Choose the Right Solution for Your Dog

The Towel Test is best at-home method to evaluate your dog’s mobility and leg strength. Place the center of an old towel under your dog’s abdomen, holding both ends of the towel gently lift while supporting your dog’s rear end. During the test, your dog should be in a “wheelbarrow” position with a flat back. While lifting, carefully encourage your dog to walk forward. Observe how your dog moves during this test to determine the level of support your dog needs.