Dogs & Assistive Walking Devices

Background

• The first step always is going to the family veterinarian to see if therapy, rest or medications are reasonable solutions for the dog's condition. Once that step is exhausted, it is always best to listen to your vet's advice, especially when it comes to finding a reputable dealer of slings, harnesses or wheel chairs. Also called carts, these devices support either the front or hind legs and allow your dog to walk on its own.

  While an accident, degenerative myelopathy, hip dysplasia and spinal and neurological problems can hinder a dogs mobility, harnesses and slings start at around $35 and dog carts start at $200, according to the Wheelchairs for Dogs page on Mobility Advisor's website. Also, if you're dog is a quadriplegic, a few companies offer dog carts for them.

Slings and Harnesses

• This is the first option if your dog still has its mobility but seems to tire on a easy walk to the park, while going up steps or after playing with other dogs. Many styles are available that can help your dog with its specific problem. If hip dysplasia, broken bones or skeletal or muscular problems ail your pooch, many styles of harnesses are available that allow you to take some of the weight off the dog's front and back side. For dogs with full-body problems that can still walk but need help, there are support slings that ease the pain and increase the mobility. Harnesses and slings start at about $35 and can cost as much as $185 depending on the style harness and the size of the dog.

Dog Wheelchairs

• Dog wheelchairs, or carts, are devices that support the dog's front or back legs, using wheels to replace the limbs, and allowing the dog to walk on its own good legs. Dog wheelchairs have a lightweight frame, a harness and a support saddle so the dog can keep its balance and remain safe while taking a walk with you, and hopefully playing with other dogs. If your dog has lost a leg, you can customize the cart with counterweights and additional harnesses to ensure the dogs safety. Many different wheelchairs are available, from custom-made options, to one-size-fits-all adjustable carts, and most will allow your dog to "go potty" while in the cart. Dog wheelchairs cost between $200 and $600 and a list of manufacturer's is available at the Mobility Advisor's website.

Wheelchair Cautions

• While most dogs quickly adapt and many thrive in their new cart, some may take a while to get used to it and even need training. Always keep a close eye on your dog as it gets accustomed to its new form of transportation and never leave a dog unattended in its wheelchair for long periods of time because it can easily become fatigued and the cart can tip over. Finally, make sure you think about your dog's attitude and temperament and whether it will react well to a cart before you make this investment.