Health

These 11 Things Will Help Your Special Needs Dog Live Its Best Life

Written by: Nicole Zalat

October 7, 2014

Having a dog in your life takes commitment, a sense of humor, and a whole lotta belly rubbin’. This is even more true for those living with a disabled dog. Whether your pup was born with his disability or developed it later in life, it often feels like we humans dwell more on their three-leggedness or deafness than the dogs do.

Thankfully, with the help of some cool products geared towards dogs with special needs, you can make your dog’s life a bit easier.

1. Boots

If your pup is a tripawd, or three legged dog, he might have some trouble balancing on slippery floors. With these booties, he’ll be able to walk over that evil linoleum kitchen floor with confidence.

tripawds gear

2. Elevated bowls

Speaking of kitchen floors, if your pup has less than four legs, eating and drinking water might be a little challenging as he places all his weight on his front legs. Help him keep his balance by elevating his water and food bowls.

houzz

3. Medical ID tag

Some disabilities aren’t obvious, so it’s helpful to get your pup a collar or tag that communicates his impairment to people. In case your dog gets lost, it would be good for his rescuers to know as much information as possible.

ebony paws pets etsy

4. Halo

Blind dogs often bump into things, and while they mostly just shake it off and keep moving (I imagine they mutter under their breath like we would), we humans can’t help but feel a bit sorry for them. Enter the halo, which acts as a bump guard so your pup doesn’t hurt his nose on the coffee table edge. There are lots of options, ranging from a more utilitarian vest with attached halo to a cuter angel wings/halo combo.

muffins halo

5. Tracerz

If you’re worried your blind pup might end up becoming frustrated with the halo or he’s not a fan of wearing things, Tracerz are your best bet. They’re scented markers you can stick around your house to mark important areas, like where the door or wee wee pads are so your pup can find his way to his potty area without trouble.

tracerz

6. Dog wheelchair

Dogs who have had legs amputated or suffer from hip issues can be fitted with a super cool ride. Bonus points if you decorate it.

jtee90

7. Mobility harness

Mobility harnesses are for pups who may be having trouble holding their weight up by themselves. Wearing one helps your pup balance and avoids adding unnecessary stress to his joints. It can be useful for your tripawd while adjusting to life after amputation.

tripawds gear mobility harness

8. Pet ramp

If your dog has mobility restrictions, a pet ramp can make it easier for him to go on rides with you. A foldable pet ramp is great to keep in the trunk of the car for easy access.

dccorgi

9. Babble Ball

Just because your pup is blind doesn’t mean he shouldn’t get spoiled with toys! Blind pups do tend to lose their toys while playing with them, though, so a Babble Ball is a great way to keep him in the game. It talks when your dog plays with it, and turns off automatically once playtime is over.

10. Look Who’s Talking Toy

These toys are like Babble Balls, except they’re plushies too. They come in different animal versions, so if “Mooo” doesn’t make your pup’s tail wag, maybe “Quack quack” will.

multi pet amazon

11. Scented toys

A visually impaired pup might lose his toy if he can’t see it, but he won’t lose a scented toy. These mint-scented tennis balls can be used to encourage your pup to play fetch using his awesome sense of smell.

petsport amazon

Featured image via @rooroothetwoleggedwonderdog/Instagram

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Written by: Nicole Zalat

October 7, 2014

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INNOVATIVE DOG STUFF, EVERY MONTH.

A themed collection of BARK-designed toys, treats, and chews.