1.Feed your dog a healthy diet
Being overweight in general is not healthy. This poses additional health problems for dogs that are paralyzed or have mobility issues. It puts undo strain on their joints and makes it even harder for them to move at all. If your dog has rear leg mobility issues which is the most common, it will be even more difficult for them to scoot around using their front legs.
Mental and physical issues can cause nutritional imbalances. A good diet is important for recovery. It’s important to speak to your veterinarian about any dietary changes due to this health issue.
2.Give your dog plenty of water
A dog knows how much water he needs. This is not always the case with a dog that has a tendency to over eat. Keeping your dog hydrated with help to maintain healthy skin and prevent it from cracking just like in humans.
3. Keep your dog’s skin healthy
Some dogs that have rear leg issues tend to drag their legs which can cause skin damage and sores. However, when not in use they can still have some issue. You may need to use some type of bandage or topical crème, but consult your veterinarian.
A well cushioned bed will help to relieve pressure on the joints and provide relief while laying down. You may need to move your dog’s position to deter decubitus ulcers. They tend to form on areas such as elbows, ankles, hips and the periocular bone. This is caused by constant pressure due to the lack of mobility. If decubitus ulcers form you can use creams such as centella asiatica or aloe vera to help them heal.
Special diapers for dogs are sometimes needed. Disabled dogs can have problems with controlling going to the bathroom. They will help keep your house clean and also prevent urine and feces from irritating the skin. You must also keep the skin clean to prevent flies, which could lay eggs on your dog and cause more health issues.
4. Maintain your dogs hygiene
This includes your dog, his bed and the floors. A dog that has mobility issues can drag their legs. This can cause sores which can lead to infection. Washing your dog frequently and keeping sores clean will help prevent infections. Also, washing their bed and your floors will help with preventing infections.
5. Your dog should use the bathroom frequently
A Paralyzed dog may have difficulty using the bathroom themselves. Not using the bathroom enough can cause a bladder infection and cause kidney issues.
6.Watch where your dog scoots around
Inside on clean floors is safe. However, outside it is best to be on grass. Streets, driveways and sidewalks are abrasive and can definitely cause sores on your dog from dragging their legs. However, if you use a dog wheelchair this would no longer be a problem. You can take your dog climbing a mountain with one of these dog wheelchairs. They are high performing, light weight and built to be used on rough terrain. So going up stairs would definitely be a possibility. However, we always suggest you be with your dog and provide assistance, especially in the beginning when they are getting used to the dog wheelchair.
7. Your dog should get exercise
Exercise helps flexibility, mobility, improve stability and increase muscular strength. Certain breeds and larger dogs need more exercise. Often times smaller dogs love just running around the house in their dog wheelchair. However, with larger dogs they will always need to go outside to run around.
8. Get your dog physical therapy
Some injuries such as spinal injuries dogs can recover completely with physical therapy. This needs to be done by a veterinarian. If allowed by state law then a licensed veterinary or animal health technician educated in veterinary physical therapy or a licensed physical therapist educated in animal anatomy and physiology.
9. Get your dog a dog wheelchair
This will help him be more mobile and reduce the chances of developing sores from dragging himself around. A common misconception is that dogs can develop sores from a dog wheelchair. This is not the case if you buy a high performing and comfortable one like the SitGo Dog Wheelchair.
There are several benefits from getting your dog a dog wheelchair. They will be more active which reduces the chance of developing depression. This can occur in dogs that are not able to be active. It will reduce the chances of developing sores, maintain a healthy weight and be able to use the bathroom outdoors.
About The Author
Performance Dog Wheelchairs wants you to know that physical limitations are not the end to mobility. Our purpose is to give others and their dogs the ability to seek new adventures and overcome physical challenges with one of our handicapped dog carts.
We offer a full support dog wheelchair, a dog wheelchair for back legs and the patented SitGo Dog Wheelchair which is also for the hind legs. This is the only one on the market that allows your dog to go from standing to sitting without having to remove it.