Pets age the same as humans. They develop arthritis or hip dysplasia that limits their movement. They may have medical conditions, such as cancer or diabetes, that may require amputation. They may lose a paw or leg due to an accident, or they may become paralyzed. Specially designed wheelchairs give disabled pets the freedom to move.
Types
Pet wheelchairs, also called carts, come in front, rear, and quad designs, according to the website Mobility-Advisor.com. Mobility-Advisor specializes in wheelchairs for pets as well as people.
Rear support wheelchairs, with two wheels at the back, are recommended for pets that have good use of their front legs but need support for their back legs, such as dogs with hip dysplasia. Front support carts usually have four to six wheels in the front and are used for pets with full use of their rear legs but limited use of the front legs. Quad chairs support both the front and rear legs and are helpful for pets that have difficulty maintaining their balance or that have undergone spinal disk surgery. The chairs evenly distribute the pet’s weight while providing support and balance.
Pet wheelchairs are typically custom-made to fit each pet, although ready-made chairs are available. The chair consists of four basic components: a plastic or aluminum frame, straps to hold the pet in place, support slings for the pet’s chest and hips, and the wheels.
Adaptability
Pets will need to adapt to their new wheelchair. You may need to train your pet on how to use the chair, whereas others adapt readily. Introduce your pet to the new chair slowly and allow time for your pet to learn how to use the chair. Cats may have more difficulty than dogs in adjusting to a new wheelchair. The chair may hinder the cat’s maneuverability, especially around corners or in tight spaces, and some cats never accept using a chair.
Use
Consult with your veterinarian before purchasing a pet wheelchair for recommendations on which type of chair will best meet your pet’s needs. Pet wheelchairs are designed to allow the pet to urinate and defecate freely. Because the harness prevents your pet from laying down, do not leave your pet in the wheelchair for more than 1 or 2 hours at a time, and never leave your pet in the wheelchair unsupervised.