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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. At the time, frustrated pet owners would contact me to see if I knew of organizations that donate dog wheelchairs. It led me to research the problem and what I found was amazing.
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.
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.
Click here to read 3 easy ways to put a dog into a wheelchair.
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.
Here are the groups:
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
This special group 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.
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.
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
This nonprofit organization 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
This group 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 loans carts in the US and has a separate loaner program for dogs in the UK. The program is designed to get dogs with Degenerative Myelopathy into wheelchairs when their families have a fixed income. They also loan harnesses and boots. Carts are donated by individuals who no longer need them, so availability varies. Recipients pay a flat fee of $75 US for shipping. And once their dog isn’t able to use the wheelchair, pet owners are asked to return it. There’s a two-step application process. First people are directed to measure their dog using the diagram On This Page. And then complete the application form at: Wheels to Help Me’
Click here to read about how to keep your dog safe in their wheelchair. Accidents are on the rise.
The Guinness Dunn Foundation
Founded in 2020 by two pet owners as a memorial to their paralyzed dog named Guinness, 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. Click here for their application page to receive a donated wheelchair. Applications must be fully completed to be considered for a cart. Click to read more: The Guinness Dunn Foundation.
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 BandAid & KC’s Kruisers
Based in Florida this nonprofit helps dogs provides gently used mobility equipment for dogs under their KC’s Kruisers program. They donate wheelchairs, harnesses and related supplies to dogs in the USA. The group also has a program that pays for urgent medical care. Apply online at banditsbandaid.org or contact them via their FB page.
Tyson’s Wonder Wheels 4 Boxers
While they started as a group for Boxers, this charity donates carts to disabled dogs of all breeds. To apply for a cart email [email protected] or contact them through their FB page.
Wild Hearts Foundation
This wonderful nonprofit organization primarily assists dogs in need of medical tests and treatments, but they also have a small wheelchair donation program. You can apply for a assistance by emailing: 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 foundation donates dog wheelchairs and offers temporary financial aid for medical procedures, at-home care and rehabilitation. Apply for services here: Application
Dog wheelchair manufacturers that donate
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
HandicappedPets.com, the manufacturers of Walkin’ Wheels started a Foundation that donates carts. Applications can be completed at: 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.
If you know of another resource that donates dog wheelchairs, please leave their name in the comment section. I always happy to add to this list.
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Hello my German shepard needs wheel chair back legs gone he big dog so xxL one if possible
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
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
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
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
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.
I need one for Sebastian my boxer. He limited use of his two back legs. If this is still available for donations.
Thanks, Trey
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.
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
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.
Thank you Sharon much appreciated.
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
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.
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
Hi Miles, In answer for a donated dog wheelchair I recommend that you contact Gunnar’s Wheels via their Facebook page and Handicapped Pets Foundation – https://www.hpets.org/
I’m sure one of these groups will be able to help you quickly. Or you can apply to any of the groups listed in our article: Organizations That Donate Wheelchairs. https://dogwheelchairlife.com/organizations-that-donate-dog-wheelchairs-to-pet-families/
Your reply to one of our readers Alan Shaffer probably won’t help. That reader left the comment last year.
Please reach out to the 2 nonprofits I mentioned ASAP.
Regards, Sharon
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
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
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.
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
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?)
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.
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
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.