Join the forum discussion on this topic!Are you thinking about a wheel chair for your three legged pal?
If so, you’ll want to read this brief interview with our favorite canine rehab veterinarian Dr. Jessica Waldman, VMD, CVA, CCRT, co-founder of California Animal Rehabilitation Center in Los Angeles.
We asked Dr. Waldman when and how a wheel chair or cart can benefit a Tripawd and how it should be used. Here’s what she had to say:
Under what circumstances are carts appropriate for a Tripawd?
Carts are appropriate if the pet has severe compensatory issues or severe pain and therefore dysfunction with mobility. This should be considered after appropriate pain management, rehabilitation, and acupuncture.
Rehabilitation veterinarians or physical therapists* can aid in this decision and in measurements and fittings for the cart.
If the pet is unable to walk comfortably or without rest for more than 30 feet after these other approaches have been tried, a cart may be acceptable.
(*Qualified rehabilitation therapists have the initials CCRT: Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist or CCRP: Certified Canine Rehabilitaiton Practitioner after their name. To find one, visit the Canine Rehabilitation Institute or the University of Tennessee Animal Rehabilitation program website.
What are benefits and drawbacks of using a cart with a Tripawd?
Carts can be helpful to increase mobility, but a pet that uses a cart must use it in moderation (starting with just a minute or two at a time a few times daily.)
It is also important for owners to know that pets may do short walks (I would always limit to 15-20 minutes maximum) in carts, but that they cannot lie down in a cart and shouldn’t because it stresses their back.
Carts are really just a walking aid. Carts do not replace the need for strengthening, range of motion, or flexibility issues.
Are there steps can a human take to avoid needing a cart for their Tripawd?
LOTS!! Rehab, exercise restriction is key, acupuncture, pain management, strengthening!!!
What kinds of qualifications/experience should a human look for in a company that makes carts?
Good question. Reputation, experience. Check the Better Business Bureau. Ask: Do they make rear wheel carts only or both front and rear limb carts (meaning, the more variety they have the more understanding they have)? Do they provide carts with counterbalance?
How do you know if a cart is properly fitted?
Hard to say, we have physical therapists do this because it isn’t easy to explain. The dog needs to be in “as normal an anatomic position” as possible.
Many thanks to Dr. Waldman and California Animal Rehabilitation Center for helping us bring this valuable information to you. If you are lucky enough to live nearby, be sure to visit Dr. Waldman’s incredible facility and see how her staff can help your Tripawd dog stay strong and live hoppy!
Check out Tripawd Daisy and her Eddie’s Wheels Cart:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMMr928PmVY[/youtube]
For more information about rehabilitation therapy, wheel chairs and wheel carts for three legged dogs, please see our previous news stories:
I have a year old pit/Jack Russel mix. He had to have his rear, right leg amputated before I adopted him from the shelter. It seems that after a long day of running around the house and up and down my stairs, he gets “ghost pains” where that leg used to be.
I’m not sure if he is wheelchair ready, as he still gets along really well. But I’m afraid that he is putting stress on his spine and causing himself more harm than good. I already have him on nerve pain medication, and it does not seem to help much.
What do you suggest?
Hi Erin! I’m not a vet but at a year old I’m going to bet that your doggie is not ready for a wheel chair. Your best bet is to get together with a canine rehab therapist who can evaluate him, his lifestyle and exercise needs and habits, and come up with a plan to alleviate any pain he is experiencing. The best part is that the Tripawds Foundation may even pay for your first rehab visit! Also, please come to our Hopping Around Discussion Forum so we can provide even more feedback. See you there!
What great information guys! And from my favorite Dr. Waldman!! Thanks for the info!
Tracy, Maggie’s Mom
Awww shucks! Thanks Tracy & Maggie, we’re so glad you like it!