What is a canine wheelchair, and why correct fit is essential.

What exactly is it?

Canine wheelchairs are specially designed to enable dogs with paralysis, a neurological condition or impacted mobility enjoy a new lease of life! You may not have come across many of these out and about, but they are becoming increasingly popular in the US and Europe as a means of improving the quality of life for dogs that would otherwise be unable to enjoy walks or playtime.

Would it help my dog?

At All Creatures, our aim is always to do what’s best for your pet. Canine wheelchairs are not suited to every dog, but in many cases they can help to restore mobility. They are particularly beneficial for dogs with partial paralysis, but can also benefit dogs with conditions such as degenerative myelopathy, severe hip dysplasia or IVDD.

If you think your best friend would benefit from a new set of wheels, give us a call and we can discuss your pet’s unique condition and needs.

What’s involved?

We first need to assess your dog. We will do a gait analysis, ask you for details about your dog’s condition and medical history and determine whether a wheelchair is an option for them. We will then take measurements and assemble a custom-made wheelchair for your pet. We fit the wheelchair and make adjustments to ensure your dog is comfortable, before spending some time helping them become accustomed to their new wheelchair.

Before you leave, we will show you the best way of placing your dog in their wheelchair and taking them out, as well as how best to maintain the equipment. We will check in with you after a few days to see how your dog is getting on, but we are always available for follow-up support if you ever have any questions or worries!

Anything else I need to know?

An incorrectly-fitted wheelchair can do more damage than good as they will place uneven force on an animal’s body and can cause their condition to deteriorate further. We are certified in canine wheelchair fitting and will ensure that your pet is safe and confident in their new wheelchair before leaving our clinic.

We stock Walkin’ Pets wheelchairs, as we have found them to be robust, reliable and comfortable. They are waterproof and sturdy, yet lightweight, so your dog can continue to enjoy their favourite places, whether that’s running on the beach, playing in the park or simply enjoying a stroll around the garden!

Your pet’s wellbeing is our priority! We always make sure your pet is comfortable and confident before proceeding with any treatment or service. Sometimes this means your visit will last a little longer than estimated, but you’re welcome to a coffee/tea while you wait.

How can I find out more?

To learn more about our wheelchair fitting service, or to book a fitting for your dog, get in touch and we can have a chat about your dog’s needs!

Here at All Creatures, we are passionate about improving your best friend’s quality of life. With your help, we can make a difference for animals in pain, so we’d love to hear from you!