How to Make a Doggy Wheelchair

Dogs sometimes get into accidents or are born with conditions that mean they lose the functions of their legs. But like humans, wheelchairs can be used to help them get back the mobility they once had. If you are short of cash and do not have the money to pay for a specialist dog wheelchair, it is possible to build one yourself. By building a dog wheelchair, you and your dog will benefit from the advantages of a wheelchair at a fraction of the cost.

Things You'll Need

  • Two wheels
  • Aluminum pole
  • PVC frame
  • Nuts and bolts
  • Measuring tape
  • U-shaped bar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure your dog. Write down the measurements on a piece of paper so you know how wide and long your dog wheelchair needs to be.

    • 2

      Small dogs should ideally be supported in a wheelchair with a PVC frame. Larger breeds should have a metal-framed wheelchair. Find some scrap metal or purchase the materials needed from a hardware store.

    • 3

      Buy two wheels. For dogs less than 65 pounds, the wheels will need to be 12 inches in diameter. Larger dogs should have wheels that are 16 inches in diameter. Connect each wheel to the metal or PVC right angle frame brace and tighten with a nut and bolt.

    • 4

      Buy an eight foot long aluminum pole, a quarter of an inch thick. If the dog is six inches wide, cut the pole so it is eight to 10 inches wide to allow for enough room between the dog and the side of the chair.

    • 5

      Repeat this step but this time measure the length of the dog and cut the remaining aluminum pole two to four inches longer. Buy a metal bar that is U shaped, or get a professional to bend one for you. Attach this to the dog harness. Take the harness where it tightens and put it through the bar until it reaches the top. Then take each end of the harness and slip its metal ring through the bar. Attach the bar to the side pipes and then drill a hole in the bar all the way through. Secure with a nut and bolt so the harness is secure.