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Organizations That Donate Dog Wheelchairs to Pet Families


 
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Wheelchairs for dogs are a godsend for disabled pets, but several years ago I learned the price tag makes them out of reach for many families. Frustrated pet owners would contact me to see if I knew of an organization that would donate a free dog wheelchair. It led me to research the problem and what I found was amazing.

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Dachshund in need of a dog wheelchair

There are lots of generous nonprofit groups whose mission is to get paralyzed dogs into donated carts when their families can’t afford one.

The list below includes all of these organizations and their requirements to apply. Some of the groups buy new wheels for paraplegic pets while others offer refurbished carts or loaners. When you find one that fits your needs, click on the highlighted link. It’ll take you to the group’s application page or where you can leave a message.

And if you’re in need of financial help to pay for veterinary care, here’s my list of groups that assist with this problem too.

Why carts can be pricey

Dog wheelchairs are complicated devices and a lot of details go into building each one. The leading manufacturers use durable, but lightweight materials that won’t strain a paralyzed dog’s back. And many carts are custom-made to accommodate the physical disability of an individual animal.  While this attention to detail is commended, it also drives up the price.

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Organizations that donate dog wheelchairs

The groups who offer free donated carts, for the most part, are made up of animal lovers who have or once had a paralyzed dog in their life. They understand the obstacles pet families face and have taken it upon themselves to help.

A Boxer in need of a dog wheelchair

Gunnar’s Wheels

  • Gunnar was a treasured pet who became paralyzed after truck ran into him. When his owners, Jason and Stephanie Parker, were hit with the cost of Gunnar’s veterinary bills and the price of a dog wheelchair, they started a GoFundMe page to help pay the expenses. The Parker’s were surprised by the generous outpouring of donations they received. When Gunnar was back on his feet, the couple decided to start another GoFundMe page to buy wheelchairs for other handicapped dogs. During its first year, Gunnar’s Wheels handed 40 carts to paraplegic dogs. Every year since, the organization has supplied Walkin’ Wheels carts for dogs around the world.

This is a loaner program to individuals and rescue groups. Animals use a cart free of charge until it’s not longer needed. The wheelchair is then sent back to Gunnar’s Wheels.

Applications can be made by leaving a message on Gunnar’s Wheels Facebook Page or GoFundMe Page. Gunnar’s Wheels has the largest and most active wheelchair program.

Hailey’s Wheels for Life

  • Hailey’s Wheels for Life is based in Australia, but they grant wheelchairs everywhere to individuals and rescue groups.  Their vision is, “To encourage an alternative to euthanasia and to prolong the life of an otherwise healthy dog.” Hailey’s Wheels works with Walkin’ Wheels dog carts. The group is named in honor of a little Westie named Hailey who became paralyzed at the age of 12.  Hailey contracted a parasitic disease of the spinal column called Neosporosis.  She continued to enjoy life with her family until she lost her battle with the disease.  Pet parents can apply for a wheelchair here: Hailey’s Wheels for Life Facebook.

Joey’s P.A.W. (Prosthetics and Wheels)

  • Joey is a dog whose rear legs were intentionally amputated when he was 6 weeks old. He was rescued and adopted to a loving family who decided to use Joey’s experience to help handicapped dogs in need. Joey’s P.A.W. is the only organization that funds custom prosthetics for dogs with amputation as well as dog wheelchairs. Pet families can apply for assistance by leaving detailed information on Joey’s P.A.W. Contact Us page. Applicants hear back in 24 hours.

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Mango on a Mission

  • Mango is an adorable Cairn terrier who was found on the side of a road with a broken back.  The paralyzed pup won the heart of disabled Army veteran Judy Walter when she read how Mango became the first handicapped dog in a program that visited veterans in the hospital. Judy adopted Mango and started a Facebook page to mark her accomplishments.  One of Mango’s followers contacted Judy about getting a wheelchair for her own paralyzed dog.  Judy asked her followers for help and before she knew it there was enough money for several carts.  The informal program has continued to grow.  Mango on a Mission purchases new carts for dogs.  There is an application available at the bottom of their website: Mango’s Freedom Wheels.  Or contact Judy on the Mango on a Mission Facebook page.

CorgiAid Cart Program

  • The CorgiAid Cart Program is a nonprofit organization that specializes in helping Corgis and Corgi mixes.  They started their cart program because Corgi’s are one of the breeds prone to developing Degenerative Myelopathy.  Their dog wheelchairs are loaned. Pet owners must agree to return the cart, at their own expense, when their Corgi no longer needs it. There’s also a refundable $50 deposit required and $35 in shipping charges.  Applications can be completed at: CorgiAid.

High Rollers Club HRC

  • The High Rollers Club (HRC) started out raising funds for Pugs in need of a cart, but they now donate new wheelchairs to every breed. Cynthia Peraza is the founder and she’s a dynamo at raising money for carts via Instagram online auctions. You can contact High Rollers Club HRC by messaging them on Instagram.

Wheels to Help Me

  • A dog wheelchair loan program sponsored by Finding the Cure for DM Foundation. The nonprofit group used to loan carts in the US and the UK, but they currently only offer the program in the United Kingdom to families on a fixed income. Wheels to Help Me’ also loans harnesses and boots for disabled dogs. Wheelchairs are donated by individuals who no longer need them, so availability varies. Recipients pay a flat fee to cover shipping. And once their dog isn’t able to use the wheelchair, pet owners are asked to return it. You can apply for a cart by clicking this link: Cure4DM.org or email [email protected].

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Checkout the Walkabout Harness

The Guinness Dunn Foundation

  • Founded in 2020 by two pet owners as a memorial to their paralyzed dog named Guinness, The Guinness Dunn Foundation this is the newest group that donates dog wheelchairs. Their goal is to keep pets and their families together during difficult times by providing financial assistance for emergency veterinary bills, pet food assistance and mobility carts for disabled dogs. Check out their Grant Application Form here for their application page to receive a donated wheelchair. Applications must be fully completed to be considered for a cart.

PetAbility

  • A nonprofit started by Michael Blott whose career is based in the chiropractic care of humans. After a visit to a shelter, Michael began building custom dog wheelchairs for pet families. PetAbility specializes in carts for dogs who weigh 15lbs. or less. Each wheelchair is constructed with the proper biomechanics to fit your specific dog. The best way to contact the organization is with a direct message on the PetAbility their website.

Bandit’s K9 Care & KC’s Kruisers

  • Named after a Corgi named Bandit, this nonprofit offers two types of assistance. Bandit’s Medical Fund provides urgent medical care for sick dogs and KC’s Kruisers (also named for a Corgi) equips qualified pups with gently used wheelchairs, harnesses and other mobility supplies. Carts are provided to dog in U.S., at this time. Apply online at Bandit’s K9 Care or via their FB page.

Tyson’s Love and Hope on Wheels

  • While they started as a group for Boxers, this charity has a wheelchair loaner program for disabled dogs of all breeds. The group, which was started, by Denise Stewart has placed 2,000 free dog wheelchairs with pet families. Their only request is that when a dog no longer needs a cart, it goes to another dog on the group’s list. You can apply for a cart at: https://www.tysonsloveandhope.org

Wild Hearts Foundation

  • Wild Hearts Foundation is a wonderful nonprofit organization that primarily assists dogs in need of medical tests and treatments, but they also have a small wheelchair donation program. You can apply for assistance by filling out their sponsorship application: Wild Hearts Sponsorship.

The Wishbone Foundation

  • This is a young group that started in 2021 after the founder personally experienced the cost and time in caring for a special needs dog named Wishbone. To help other pet owners, The Wishbone Foundation donates dog wheelchairs and offers temporary financial aid for medical procedures, at-home care, and rehabilitation. Apply for services here: Application

    Handi-Capable Pets of FL

    Inspired by a special needs dog named Stagger Lee Mullins and his pet mom, Carolann Sharpe Mullins, this wonderful volunteer community assists special needs and senior pets. Based in South Lakeland, FL, the group loans dog wheelchairs, other mobility equipment like strollers, and daily care supplies like diapers, to pets who need help. In return, Handi-Capable Pets of FL asks that pet owners return the loaned item and that they pay the generosity forward for another animal by donating supplies. To apply for assistance, join the Handi-Capable Pet of FL Facebook group. Click here.

    Church of Pug

    Church of Pug is a rescue organization that’s based in Seattle, Washington. Their mission is to rescue, rehab and place pugs in need, into loving homes. The group also rescues and rehomes other brachycephalic dog breeds that weigh 25lbs or less. Brachycephalic breeds are dogs with flat face and short muzzle. In addition, Church of Pug has a mobility assistance program for pet families who live in the state. They provide services such as free dog wheelchairs, strollers and ramps. Click here to apply: churchofpug.com.

Peppa’s Place

  • Peppa’s Place is named in honor of a dog who became paralyzed one day after chasing a ball in the garden. Her family spent months trying to figure out how to help her. Then, once Peppa received a wheelchair, she regained her independence to run free. Located in the UK, Peppa’s Place helps other pets by loaning them wheelchairs and offering advice. You can also contact Peppa’s Place through their Facebook page.

Winston’s Wheels and Pumpkin’s Wheelie Good Friends

Dog wheelchair manufacturers that donate

Pug in need of a dog wheelchair
Depositphotos

Many of the retail dog wheelchair companies have programs to assist pets in need.  Some are unofficial and don’t advertise unless a pet owner asks, but they do have carts for donation on hand.

Handicapped Pet Foundation

Eddie’s Wheels Donation Program

  • This is an unofficial program that Eddie’s Wheels is happy to explain.  When people donate a cart back to them, Eddie’s Wheels holds onto it for dogs with financial needs.  If you contact them be prepared to take specific measurements of your dog.  Eddie’s Wheels will then do their best to match your pet’s size to a cart in their inventory.  The people at Eddie’s Wheels are perfectionists so they won’t release a cart unless it works seamlessly for your dog’s height, weight, and medical condition.  That might mean waiting for the right cart to become available.  Eddie’s Wheels will then refurbish the wheelchair for a nominal fee and donate it the family, rescue group, and even veterinary practices. Owners are also asked to pay for shipping.

Doggon’ Wheels

  • Similar to the program mentioned above, Doggon’ Wheels is a dog wheelchair manufacturer that also has an unofficial program. They donate carts that have been returned by pet owners who no longer have a use for them. Doggon’ Wheels refurbishes the wheelchairs and then donates them to pet families in need. To apply for a cart contact the company through the Doggon’ Wheels website.

K9 Carts Donation Program

  • The first dog wheelchair company in the USA, K9 Carts, has a small program of donated carts that are sent to help rescue groups worldwide.

Want more information?

If you know of another resource that donates dog wheelchairs, please leave their name in the comment section.  I am always happy to add to this list.

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About Sharon Seltzer

I’m a blogger, professional writer and co-founder of the Heaven Can Wait Animal Society. I’m also a pet mom who’s raised 9 dogs, 6 cats and lots of other critters. When my dog Sophie became paralyzed in 2008, it was a lonely experience. It took months to find all of the resources to help her live a quality life. My mission is to share those services with other pet owners and to teach people how to care for a disabled dog.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

    • Sharon Seltzer

      Hi Rosemary, I emailed a reply, but here’s the information in case you didn’t receive it. I suggest you contact Modullo Dog. They’re based in Europe and make an affordable dog wheelchair. You might also want to ask if they have any used carts. You can reach them through their website or the Modullo dog FB page. I also have an article with organizations that donate wheelchairs. Here’s the link: https://dogwheelchairlife.com/organizations-that-donate-dog-wheelchairs-to-pet-families/ These groups donate all around the world. – Sharon

      Reply

    • Melissa

      I have a large that my 70 lb Labrador used. It’s pink w all terrain tires. I have the box and cd n boots I bought. I’m in pa idk how to donate but my baby passed dec1st and loved 8happy years in her chair. It was and still is a great chair. Reply back if you want pictures of box for measuring

      Reply

      • Debbie Norris

        I have a big girl that could use this. Her name is Cleo and she is down in her back legs but she still wants to go for walks but it’s really hard and painful. If you still want to donate this message me and Thank you

        Reply

      • JEANNE GUTIERREZ

        I have a rear wheel chair that was bought for our boxer who has passed away.Am trying to find someone local that could use it.Am in Michigan.

        Reply

        • Sharon Seltzer

          Jeanne, It’s nice of you to want to donate your dog’s wheelchair. I recommend that you contact any canine rehab facilities or veterinary neurologists or orthpedics in your area. Many of these professionals offer loaner carts to their patients. In addition, take a look at the Organizations That Donate Wheelchairs story where you are leaving this comment. Read through the groups and feel free to reach out to any that are nearby. Gunnar’s Wheels is the most active group. You can reach them through their FB page.

          Reply

  2. Sharon Seltzer

    Hi Alan, This is very nice of you. We don’t do that on this website, but you might want to reach out to one of the organization in this article: https://dogwheelchairlife.com/organizations-that-donate-dog-wheelchairs-to-pet-families/ You should also contact Gunnar’s Wheels. They are the most active group that gives wheelchairs to pet families in need. The best way to reach them is through the Gunnar’s Wheels FB page. And you might also contact your local human society or SPCA or any special needs rescue group in your area. -Sharon

    Reply

  3. Melissa L Lynn

    hello My name is Melissa I was searching on the Internet and I came across your site and I am not entirely sure if I read it correctly

    Do you help to donations for wheelchairs for dogs have a German shepherd lab mix who isNot able to walk due to her back legs. She has seen our local vet but he is not have the equipment to X-ray her properly to find out what’s going on, My current that is relatively sure is 1 of 2 things in his either hip dysplasiaOr a problem with her lower Spine.

    The appointment that she is going to be going to around the 1st is to determine what is exactly going onMy current that is keeping herAs possible If surgery is an option it will become very expensive anywhere from 2000 to $8000, But until then I want her to have some ability and may be something she needs for the rest of her life I have prized will chairs for dogs and they are very expensive I’ve also looked to see about making one for her. I am on a very low income, And I am On disability. My dog is a 9 year old German shepherd lab mix . I was reading around websites and on Facebook and it said if I understood right you help with donations for wheelchairs for dogs it is her back legs, One side is worse than the other I’ve tried many different things to help her out .
    If you do not donate will chairs for dogs could you possibly refer me to someone who may do that?
    NFL chair is donated for her When she no longer needs it I can return it back to you for someone elseTo use or if you guys take a payment plan for one I could make payments each month and you could automatically withdraw it from my count as I am guaranteed a check each month in my banking from my disability

    Even if they are able to help her surgically it’s gonna cost a lot of money and I will have to save up and ask forDonations for that purpose from family in Friends and maybe even a go fund but that will take time pending cost and if anything can be done.

    I am heart broke, I have lost die to age 3 dogs and 2 i. just last 6 months. I wont make her suffer, with her pain management she is still very happy until she has to scoot her legs around . I want to make her happy as possible until we can figure out a better way.

    any help or advice you can offer would be br appreciated.

    Melissa

    Reply

    • Sharon Seltzer

      Melissa, I’m sorry to hear about your dog. The story you read tells pet owners about all of the organizations that donate dog wheelchairs to pet owners. Please go back to the article and read the criteria from each group. When you find one that meets your needs, click on the blue underlined words and it will take you directly to their application page. Many of the groups can get carts to dogs in about a week. Best wishes.

      Reply

  4. Trey Knight

    I need one for Sebastian my boxer. He limited use of his two back legs. If this is still available for donations.

    Thanks, Trey

    Reply

    • Sharon Seltzer

      Hi Trey,
      Please refer back to the article Organizations That Donate Dog Wheelchairs. It will point you to the application page from each nonprofit with instructions about how to apply for a donated cart for your dog.

      Reply

    • Trudie Simmons

      Hi is there any that cover the Uk please
      I have one that my dog has outgrown i can donate but i would need a bigger one for my dog
      If anyone can give me some info i would be greatful

      Reply

      • Sharon Seltzer

        Trudie, Most of the organizations listed in the story donate wheelchairs all over the globe. Please don’t be afraid to send in an application, especially to Gunnar’s Wheels. They are the most active group.

        Reply

        • Karen Hankers

          The organisations Winston’s Wheels, and Pumpkins Wheelie Good Friends are both based in the UK and have wheelchair and stroller donation programs. Both can be found via their pages on Facebook.

          Reply

          • Sharon Seltzer

            Karen, Thanks for sharing this. I will update the story to include these UK programs.

  5. Johnathan

    Yes my dog princess needs a wheelchair for her back leg she’s a runner she loves everything she loves people she’s 10 years old we bought lost your about a month ago over kidney kidney failure but she’s doing better now should all right good dog and she hurts every day after she’s on pain medicine for her leg and my name is Jonathan Conley and I was just wanting to see if it is there anyway you guys could possibly donate one or make me let me make payments or words are for a small dog and terrier mix

    Reply

    • Sharon Seltzer

      Johnathan, The best way to approach getting a wheelchair for Princess is to look through the article Organization That Donate Wheelchairs and when you find a group that meets your needs, click on the link and complete their application. A link to each group is highlighted in their description. It will take you directly to their application page. Many of these organizations get carts to dogs in a week.

      Reply

  6. Miles Llorente

    My 11 year old Neapolitan Mastiff Noah, and I were struck by hit and run driver. His hind legs are now paralyzed. I have a dog rescue that I am just starting, i work with local rescue to help rehabilitate, offer obedience training at no cost to rescue when a dog is not finding forever home. At the moment, only have my Social security, unable to afford a wheel chair for Noah.
    He’s about 26” tall, 42” length, weight 130 pounds. I hope you still have the wheel chair available.
    My rescue is called Heavenly Hounds Rescue Foundation.
    Noah has always been special needs dog, Ace of Hearts, rescue i work with, originally rescued him.
    Malnourished, skeleton, scared from abuse, left outside on chain.
    He made recovery, was adopted 5 times, returned 5 times. When i was contacted to provide him some training, I decided he been through enough, and adopted him. That was 8 years ago. From the first day i brought him home, i couldnt understand why no one wanted this incredible, sent from Heaven, tail wagging joy of unconditional love? It has been heart breaking to see him unable to stand or walk. Hes boisterous, and wants to get outside. I want to get him outside, that will allow him to still feel connected to the world and his neighborhood.
    If you email me at [email protected] i will send a couple photos.
    I dont have a web site yet, i do have facebook page
    Heavenly Hounds Rescue Foundation.
    God Bless
    Miles and Noah

    Reply

  7. Cheryl Wieland

    Hi my German shepherds back legs went out she can’t walk,she slither across the floor she can’t go outside to go to bathroom she’s got so much life left in her. I can’t afford a wheelchair for her seen where people donate n when there done with them they send back and some other dog will be able to use i love this idea !!! If there’s any in my area or somewhere where I could get one free I would love to know. Thanks for your help, greatly appreciate!!!! My babies name is Coco she’s mommies girl, we rescued her and want to rescue her again

    Reply

    • Sharon Seltzer

      Hi Cheryl, Thanks for reaching out about your dog. There are lots or great organizations that donate wheelchairs to dogs and all of them are listed in this article on my website: https://dogwheelchairlife.com/organizations-that-donate-dog-wheelchairs-to-pet-familes/ All of the groups donate all over the world so they will be able to help you. Just click on the highlighted words in the description of each organization and it will take you directly to their application page. Two you should definitely contact are: Gunnar’s Wheels via their FB page and The Handicapped Pets Foundation. You can also contact Eddie’s Wheels, a company that makes great dog wheelchairs, to see if they have a used cart on hand. – Best wishes,
      Sharon

      Reply

  8. Jenny Moe

    Wild Hearts in Chicago donates wheels and/or sponsors dogs who need them. Also, Doggon’ Wheels has a similar program to Eddie’s Wheels – will donate wheels at times and offers refurbished wheels based on availability of returned/donated frames at a discounted rate, new harnesses provided, shipping paid by the client/recipient. They are now in San Francisco, CA as of 2021.

    Reply

    • Sharon Seltzer

      Jenny, Thank you for sharing this. I will add Doggon’ Wheels to the list of organizations. I know about the good work Wild Hearts does in getting medical care for disabled dogs, but I didn’t know they have a wheelchair program as well. – Sharon

      Reply

  9. Lisa Corman

    Do you know of any organizations where I can donate our used chair? We have had to say goodbye to our beloved pup, Bentley. He had DM so we’ve used a cart (purchased new in July 2021) for the last 8 or 9 months. We would love to pass it along to an organization that can gift it to a family in need. I’m sure it will need some adjustment/refurbishment.

    We have the straps and extra parts provided by Walking Wheels (walking pets?)

    Reply

    • Sharon Seltzer

      Lisa, You can use the list provided in the story where you left your comment”Organizations That Donate Dog Wheelchairs” to contact one of the groups. You should also reach out to Gunnar’s Wheels via their FB page. They are the most active group that refurbishes used carts and donates them to animals in need.

      Reply

  10. Vicki

    Hi,
    Would you be able to help this appeal for support for a disabled dog in Ukraine on Twitter? They need help to find someone who might take the dog on. I wondered if your connections might be a fruitful source of caring individuals that would help? This is the Twitter link. https://twitter.com/kinga_valentino/status/1524848387077685254
    Any help you can provide in making connections with agencies able to assist would be gratefully received.
    Many thanks,
    Vicki

    Reply

    • Sharon Seltzer

      Vicki, Thank you for sharing this. I’d be happy to share the dog’s story on my social media sites, but my thought is that the special needs rescue groups are aware he needs help. It’s a terrible time for abandoned pets. I did a bit of research and saw a new Tweet that Topaz will be taken in by a rescue group.

      Reply

      • Charles Ward

        I have a slightly used wheelchair for mediun size doxy. Need contact information or where/who to send to.

        C. Ward

        Reply

        • Sharon Seltzer

          Charles, You are very generous to donate your dachshund’s wheelchair. If it’s a Walkin’ Wheels, you can donate to Gunnar’s Wheels via their Facebook page. If it’s from Eddie’s Wheels you can donate back to them directly. I also suggest you look for a special needs dog rescue in your area or a canine rehab center.

          Reply

  12. Karen E King

    I have a Teacup Yorkie. Totally incontinent & has a compromised trachea He has a problem with his rear legs. Because he is a male, he prefers to poop hidden/under or behind bushes.
    I’m over 65 years old and we (dog & I) have similar medical issues/problems.
    Any suggestions or direction, I would greatly appreciate.

    Thanking you in advance

    Karen

    Reply

    • Sharon Seltzer

      Karen, I’m not sure what direction (help) you need for your Yorkie. You will find many answers to your questions if you type a topic into our search bar.

      Reply

  13. Donna M Stroh

    I have a pug that has lost her leg mobility due to nerve damage and is dragging her back legs. And I won’t put her down she is still healthy and tries to be active but her back legs won’t let her move like she use to. Is there any way that I could get help in getting her a back leg wheelchair so she can still be a productive part of our family. I just can’t see putting her down for something or someone that could help her out in her time of need. I don’t have the money that there asking for to get her one. So if there is anything that you could do to help me that would be a great help and appreciate very much. Thank you so much in advance. My name is donna stroh and I live in Tennessee which doesn’t offer any kind of service or help with this matter. My address is 301 jp lemons rd Morrison tn. 37357so if you could help me out I would be forever grateful. My pig weighs 15 pounds by the way.

    Reply

    • Sharon Seltzer

      Donna, If you read through the article, Organizations That Donate Dog Wheelchairs, you’ll a blue highlighted link for each group that donates or loans wheelchairs. Click on the link and it will take you directly to the group’s application page. I highly recommend that you start with The Handicapped Pets Foundation. https://hpets.org

      Reply

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