Dog Wheelchairs

As the popular saying goes, "necessity is the mother of all invention." This was perhaps what dog owners were thinking when they first made their rolling contraptions for their ailing or aging dogs. Perhaps as a final attempt to hold off their beloved pets' deteriorating health, whether it's paralysis, joint pains, or some other ailment that often comes with aging canines, dog owners slowly found their way to constructing a mobility aid that came in the form of a wheeled device.

When your pet dog can no longer walk or move around freely, it becomes a disaster. Sometimes, dogs also get a sore back just like humans. But there is nothing to worry. There is something called dog wheelchairs that were created to enable handicapped and paralyzed dogs to recuperate and reclaim their mobility. A wheelchair can completely transform your dog's life and grant it the independence that is so badly needed.

The most common type of dog wheelchairs is the rear wheel carts. In this, the wheels support the rear legs. Depending on how they are attached to your dog, they come in several sizes and styles. Wheelchairs also come with harness or slings. When a sling is attached to the chair, the dog need not be lifted to the wheelchair.

Where the back wheels are located is vital as it determines the dog's center of gravity. They can be placed either in front of its hips or in line or behind its hips. This enhances the dog's stability which is much needed for active dogs that wants to constantly jump around and play. The firmness of the wheels makes it possible for it to cope with the extra weight on its front legs. As the wheels move forward, the center of gravity moves back thereby easing the pressure off the front legs.

When your dog loses its front legs or if they are injured, the wheels are positioned towards the front of the wheelchair to provide support for its front legs. These front wheels work opposite to that of rear wheels. Similarly, a four-wheeled chair can benefit a dog which has lost mobility of all its four legs. This relieves the dog of all the weight on its legs and gives it the freedom to move and get some amount of exercise. Thus, dog wheelchairs serve as excellent tools for rehabilitating paralyzed dogs.

Depending on the size of the dog and type of usage, dog wheelchairs come in different designs. For a small sized dog, normally, lightweight wheelchairs are suggested. Larger dogs can go in for slightly bigger wheels. Since wheels are a fragile part of any wheelchair and are regularly used. It needs to be replaced over a period of time due to widespread use. This is usually done by the wheelchair manufacturer.

Improperly built dog wheelchairs can further damage your dog's condition. So, go in for a good quality wheelchair that is durable and long lasting.

You can go to a pet store and buy a dog wheelchair from there or even go online and take your pick from the many dog wheelchairs available. If you require a custom-made wheelchair, you can either directly go to a manufacturer and place an order with them for a wheelchair or do so online.