Caring for a pet requires a lot of work, especially one in a dog wheelchair. Pet owners must make every effort to make their homes as pet-friendly as possible. Here are simple things you can do to help your disabled dogs become more comfortable at home.
Dogs with mobility issues are no less a source of happiness and fun for their owners. It just takes them a little more effort to get around, which is why dog wheelchairs are a big help. However, being on wheels present some challenges to them and their fur parents.
If your dog’s disability is likely to be long-term, the following changes in your house can help them regain some sort of normalcy in their routine. The modifications need not be too extensive or complex, so don’t go overboard. You aim to help them get around without too much trouble with as little effort and cost as possible.
1. Put in a ramp
A ramp is the first thing you should do for your wheelchair-wielding pet. Most homes have stairs, which won’t work so well in helping your dog move around doing their doggy activities.
Pet ramps are available online, or you can make them yourself. While ready-made ramps are ideal if you have no skills in building things, DIY ramps are much more customizable. At any rate, make sure you plan out where you need ramps (front porch, back stairs, a launch pad to the couch, etc.) before buying or making them.
If you travel a lot with your disabled dog, having a mobile car ramp that folds for the car would be a good idea. It could also come in handy for other situations, such as a temporary ramp when staying with friends or your in-laws for the holidays.
2. Think vinyl tiles or planks
Most home floors are smooth, making it hard for a wheelchair-bound pet to get a grip. You might want to consider putting down vinyl tiles to introduce a non-slippery surface to areas in the house where you allow your pets.
The advantage of vinyl tiles or planks is they are floating, meaning they are not permanent. They lock together to form a uniform surface, but you don’t need to glue them down or anything on your original floor. They are also waterproof and easy to replace, keeping maintenance and costs low.
Make sure that you choose vinyl tiles or planks with a non-slippery finish!
3. Adapt your most active areas
The kitchen is the area with the most human and pet traffic in many homes. Adapt the floor and elevated areas to be wheelchair-friendly with non-slip surfaces and planks.
It would be best to replace your pet’s bowl with an elevated feeding station. That way, they can eat and drink comfortably even when tethered to a dog wheelchair. When off the wheelchair, it would be good to give them a soft and comfortable bed customized for their needs. For example, an elderly dog suffering from arthritis would sleep more soundly in a dog bed with orthopedic support.
Another simple adaptation you can make is to install retractable gates between rooms. The gates will restrict access to potentially dangerous areas, such as basement stairs, preventing serious accidents.
4. Create a safe outdoor space
A good-quality dog wheelchair will give your disabled pet a lot more mobility, so you should give them full rein! Let them get as much exercise as they want, playing and running around in an open space.
However, ensure it is free of debris or tools that could snag or injure your dog. Lay down foam agility mats or artificial turf if you don’t have grass, as these are gentler on paws than concrete or packed soil.
If you like to take your disabled dog for walks, protect its paws from knuckling by using dog skates. They are must-have wheelchair accessories for dog wheelchairs.
Ensure there is a secure boundary such as a fence, to keep your dog from running into the street. You might also consider an invisible wireless fence if your neighborhood does not allow boundary walls or fences for your front or backyards.
Happy Hound, Happy Home
Our pets are just like family, so we must do what we can to make their lives as happy and comfortable as possible. These tips for making your home dog wheelchair-friendly should not cost you the earth, but your dog’s improved well-being returns are priceless.
If you need lightweight, fully-adjustable and affordable dog wheelchairs for all sizes and breeds, we’ve got your back. We have a wide range of Best Friend Mobility wheelchairs and accessories to help you help your mobility-challenged best buddy.