Products to Assist with Arthritis, Mobility, Paralysis and Deformities in Animals

Old age comes with its associated problems and as a pet owner you may need some help to be able to deal with assisting your ageing or debilitated pet. Our pets’ life expectancies are increasing year after year.
Tessie is a 4 year old Jack Russell Terrier who was hit by car and suffered severe fractures to her right front leg and neurological damage to her left front leg. She had to have her right front leg amputated and that left her with her left fron leg as the main source of weight bearing for her body. Dogs take 60% of their body weight on their front legs and 40% on their back legs. After extensive rehabilitation she was unable to regain the use of her left front leg. A custom made front wheelchair was made for Tessie. This gave her the independence she needed and allowed her to go for the walks she was accustomed to

 

Adjustable and custom made wheelchairs are available in all sizes. These are not only reserved for paralysed dogs but can be used for arthritic dogs to give them assistance to go for that walk that they used to enjoy.

Russell was rescued by P.E.T.S. When they found him he was unable to feel his back legs and could only drag them behind him. The adjustable wheelchair has been used as part of the rehabilitation program to get him back on his paws.

Rehabilitation products may be used to assist in

1. Immobilising or supporting joints or body parts. Arthritic joints are unstable joints and can often be associated with lax ligaments. When weight bearing the joint may be put under extreme pressure causing the pet to suffer more pain. A brace to support the joint will help minimise pain, increase stability and assist in making ones pet more mobile. These wraps can also be used in times of increased load to prevent injury for example to support overloaded joints in an amputee.

Dogs can manage on 3 legs but they do better on four. Walking on three legs can impact on the rest of the body. The other limbs are overloaded causing ligament strains and it puts excessive tension on the back and discs. If you are considering a prosthetic for your pet please inform your vet before surgery. Not all pets may be candidates. One needs enough leg to be able to attach the prosthetic. If you’re pet is a candidate your vet will need to contact a rehabilitation therapist to check the level at which to amputate to be able to assure a good fitting prosthetic.

2. Protect against injury or prevent injury re-occurring

Slippery floors such as tiles and wooden floors can make it difficult for pets to move around the house with ease especially when they have weak limbs. Booties with rubber soles can help increase traction and allow them the confidence to walk on these slippery surfaces. This helps prevent other injuries such as joint sprains and splaying (doing the splits). It also helps build muscle as they are able to use their legs more effectively. I recommend using rubber socks in neurologically weak pets as the booties are too heavy and cumbersome and may contribute to hind limb dragging.

 

3.Correct or prevent deformities or injuries
This 5 month old puppy had carpal hyperflexion syndrome. A condition often found in large breed puppies that are malnourished or overfed.

 

Proprioception is the spatial awareness of where ones limbs or joints are in space. In some neurological conditions pets may have a decreased awareness of where their paws are. This may be seen when they drag there hind limbs and walk on the upper most side of their paw. Degenerative myelopathy is a condition often seen in German shepherd dogs. Thermomold booties are available to keep the paw in the correct anatomical position
4. Assist with function and ease of movement
Traditionally pet owners have used a towel under the abdomen as a sling. This has its disadvantages. Firstly it causes excessive strain on the back especially the lumbosacral area and secondly it compresses the abdominal organs often so much so as to cause the pet to urinate. If your pet is suffering from a back condition this method of support is not recommended. Full body harnesses offering support through the pelvis and including the body offer a far more comfortable and less painful way of assisting your pet. They can be used as an aid to get your pet in and out of the car, up easily from a lying down position, support going over a slippery floor, or up and down the stairs. Handles on the front and back allow the owner to give a helping hand when needed. Harnesses may be used 24 hours a day and are extra padded for extra comfort.

 

Your veterinary clinic or rehabilitation specialist will be able to assist with which products are ideally suited to help your pet. Physical rehabilitation may also benefit your pet and includes massage, aquatic therapy (swimming and underwater treadmill) and therapeutic exercises. It aids in restoring, maintaining, and promoting optimal function, optimal fitness, wellness and quality of life