Products for Handicapped Dogs That Can't Use Their Hind Legs

Not so long ago, a dog unable to use its hind legs was routinely euthanized, but today innovative pet lovers have put that practice to an end for the most part. Even quadriplegic dogs can now live happy lives with the aid of low- and high-tech products available to all pet owners at reasonable prices. Between wheelchairs, lifting aids and doggy diapers, dogs that cannot use their hind legs to walk or jump can be as physically active as they are mentally and emotionally able to be.

  1. Wheelchairs

    • A two-wheeled cart can help a dog that can̵7;t use its hind legs to live an almost normal life. This specialized wheelchair supports the back end of your dog so he can use his front legs to move forward, backward or turn left and right.

      Dr. Lincoln J. Parkes, veterinary surgeon and creator of the K-9 Carts, suggests testing your dog with a towel (or two towels if your dog is large) to find out if a wheelchair will work for him. Hold the towel under a small dog̵7;s belly like a sling to support his hind end and then encourage him to walk. If he is able to move forward without limping, falling or crossing his legs, a dog wheelchair will probably work for him.

      Consult a reputable dog cart vendor to learn how to measure your dog for a correct fit. K-9 Carts, Eddie̵7;s Wheels, Doggon Carts and Walkin̵7; Wheels all use a saddle or sling design to help dogs become independent walkers.

    Lifting Aids

    • When your dog is unable to use his hind legs, you will find yourself lifting him often̵2;putting him up into the car, lifting him into his wheelchair and raising him onto the vet̵7;s exam table. There are many products available to help you lift your small or large disabled dog. Slings, harnesses and whole body support suits give you a handle (sometimes literally) on hefting your pet. Seatbelt harnesses are also useful for car travel because a dog without the use of his hind legs may find stability in a turning or jouncing car challenging. Though general pet supply stores may stock some of these items, the widest variety of lifting aids can be found online, through sites such as Bellaspainrelief.com, Handicappedpets.com or Inthecompanyofdogs.com.

    Doggy Diapers

    • Though many dogs that can̵7;t use their hind legs are perfectly able to control their bowels and bladder, some are not. Besides being a big mess for you, allowing your dog to sit in its own urine or feces can cause skin pain and infection.

      Put your incontinent dog into washable diaper garments or purchase disposable diapers to keep your pet dry and rash-free. The staff veterinarian at Paralyzed-Dogs.com recommends the Bramtom and Snuggease lines of reusable diapers and the Simple Solutions line of disposable diapers. Check with your vet to see if your dog is incontinent due to a fixable medical problem before resorting to any type of diaper.