Taking Care of a Paralyzed Dog

Dogs are surprisingly resilient, even if one or more limbs become paralyzed. The hind legs of long, short-legged dog breeds like basset hounds or dachshunds are especially prone to canine intervertebral disk disease. But dog legs can become paralyzed for many other reasons, including injures or amputations. Paralyzed dogs can still lead happy lives, provided the owner is willing to spend time, money and effort for their care.

Things You'll Need

  • Veterinarian
  • Dog-safe sanitary wipes
  • Pee pads, old towels or material for dog to urinate on
  • Dog bed specifically made to reduce bed sores
  • Dog diapers (optional but recommended)
  • Dog cart or sling (optional but recommended)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your dog to a veterinarian regularly. When the dog's legs are useless, the nerves may be damaged and the dog will not feel any pain if a limb gets injured. Amputation may be necessary to avoid death from a secondary infection.

    • 2

      Direct the veterinarian to teach you to clean and dress minor wounds or bed sores. Since the dog has no feeling in these areas, it can get many scrapes or cuts if a limb or the hindquarters are often dragged along the ground.

    • 3

      Express the dog's bladder and bowels at least four times a day, as it will not be able feel when it needs to urinate and defecate. The dog will not only soil in the house but will be at risk for bladder infections. The veterinarian can teach you to gently pat the dog's belly behind the rib cage and in front of the hind legs. This helps relax the stomach muscles in order to best feel the full bladder and bowels. Press steadily and gently on the sides until the bladder releases urine.

    • 4

      Purchase a dog cart or sling to help the dog stay mobile. Paralyzed dogs still want to play and act like a dog, and activity will also keep the dog from becoming obese. If the dog has some use of its limbs, then using a sling will help the dog to stand up and keep its balance for walking. The sling is placed around the belly or around the hindquarters. Pull on a long leash-like handle to pull the dog into position. Dog carts, or dog wheelchairs, are more expensive, but the dogs can move at nearly full speed and socialize with other dogs.

    • 5

      Avoid bed sores, which can cause potentially lethal secondary infections. Make sure the dog has a very soft bed, or use dog beds specially made to prevent bed sores.