Adopting a Disabled Dog in a Wheelchair: What to Expect

As a past pet mom to a paralyzed pup, I think adopting a disabled dog in a wheelchair is one of the most generous acts you can do for an animal. It’s also an experience with a unique learning curve. Pet parents can’t just scoop the dog into their arms and start a life. They need the right information, the proper tools and a deep commitment to keep the dog safe, happy and loved.

If you’re considering the adoption of a disabled dog, this article will give you an overview of what pet owners should know. Caring for a paralyzed pet has its challenges, but life goes smoother when you know what to expect.

Let’s talk about paralysis

Paralysis is the loss of function and often the feeling in one or more parts of the body. It’s caused by a problem in the spine or the brain. Dogs generally experience paralysis in their limbs. Some lose complete function while other dogs have limited use of their legs. In addition, most paralyzed animals are also incontinent, to some degree. That means they’ll need your help to pee and poop.

Two of the most common conditions that cause paralysis in dogs are: Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and Degenerative Myelopathy (DM).

• IVDD – IVDD is a degenerative condition where the discs in the spine age prematurely. It’s the most common cause of ruptured discs, hind end weakness and paralysis. An estimated 2 percent of dogs will be affected by IVDD during their lifetime.

• DM – DM is a progressive neurologic disease that attacks the spinal cord. It’s seen most often in older dogs between the ages of 8-14 years old. The first signs of DM are weakness and loss of coordination in the back legs. Dogs tend to be wobbly when they walk and knuckle under their rear paws. As DM progresses, the paw knuckling turns to severe weakness in the hind end and eventually paralysis. The disease first attacks the back limbs of a dog and then goes on to paralyze the front.

Understanding the challenges

The challenges in taking care of a disabled dog in a wheelchair are similar, no matter what diagnosis the dog receives. The important part is to understand the dog’s needs and make a commitment to take care of the animal. When you adopt a disabled pet, you become their lifeline to surviving.

Here’s my list of what to expect when you adopt a disabled dog in a wheelchair.

Medical Needs:

Talk with the veterinarian or rescue group taking care of the dog about their specific medical diagnosis. Every case of paralysis is unique, so it’s important to learn the skills to manage the day-to-day care for your individual pet.

For instance, some dogs need to have diaper changes throughout the day or have their bladders manually expressed. And other animals struggle with recurring urinary tract infections. These complications can be handled, when you review them with the professional treating the animal.  

Your new dog might also face require future surgeries or ongoing treatments like laser therapy. By understanding the specifics of your pet’s medical needs, you’ll be better able to tackle them.

Using a Dog Wheelchair:

Most disabled pooches benefit from using a dog wheelchair. As the pet owner, that means investing in a high-quality cart that must be properly sized and adjusted to meet the needs of your dog.

It also means that you’ll be spending time training your new pet how to use the wheelchair. Some dogs enjoy their wheels right away, while others require time and your patience to learn how to use their cart.

You should also be prepared to do minor maintenance for the wheelchair that includes checking the tire pressure and replacing worn parts.

Financial Commitment:

Paralyzed dogs may need ongoing care to keep their bodies strong. Many undergo physical therapy, hydrotherapy, acupressure and more. Pet owners should be prepared for the financial commitment associated with these lifesaving treatments.

Building a supportive environment

Home Modifications:

• Pet parents of disabled dogs should be prepared to make a few modifications to their home so that it’s safe for a dog in a wheelchair. This may involve adding ramps so your pet can climb onto the sofa or walk over uneven steps. Pet owners also add carpet swatches and other non-slip surfaces, so a pet has more traction.

Comfortable Living Spaces:

• Ensure that the paralyzed dog has a comfortable and easy to get to spots in your home to rest and sleep. Raised dog beds and orthopedic beds can make a significant improvement to their well-being.

Consistent Routine:

• Create a daily routine for feeding, bathroom breaks, and playtime. A schedule will help your paralyzed dog feel secure and adapt more easily to their new family and home. Because the majority of wheelchair dogs are incontinent, have a daily schedule to manually express the pet’s bladder 3-4 times a day or change a diaper at least 3 times a day.

Emotional considerations

Patience and Understanding:

• It will take time for your dog to adapt to a new home and new caretakers. Be patient and provide the paralyzed dog with lots of love and reassurance.

Training and Socialization:

• Socialize your new pet with your friends and family. It will boost their confidence. You’ll also want to teach basic obedience training. This can help keep your pet safe in case of an emergency.

Embrace the Uniqueness:

• Celebrate the unique qualities of your dog. They may not be able to do certain activities, but they have their own set of abilities that make them special.

Community and resources

Connect with Support Groups:

• Join an online forum or local support group for owners of disabled dogs. Sharing experiences and tips with others can offer valuable insights and emotional support.

Educate Yourself:

• Stay informed about advances in veterinary care for disabled dogs along with new treatments and mobility aids. Being knowledgeable about upcoming trends can enhance your dog’s quality of life.

The takeaway

Adopting a paralyzed dog in a wheelchair is a compassionate and rewarding act. It requires commitment, understanding, and a willingness to adapt to a new lifestyle. It also demonstrates to your new dog that you will be there for the rest of their life.

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