Sit Down Dog Wheelchairs
5 Benefits of a Dog Stroller for Handicapped Dogs
If you are a pet parent to a handicapped dog, you may be in search of a tool that will allow your dog to still enjoy the great outdoors, even with their reduced mobility. A dog stroller may be just what you're looking for.
Each evening as I walk my dog along a nature trail, we pass a couple and their senior dog who is being pushed in a dog stroller. The two dogs say hello to each other with wagging tails and I’m filled with happiness to see the senior dog still enjoying his evening walks, even though he isn't able to physically walk.
Below are 5 benefits of using a dog stroller to help you decide if this is the right tool for you and your dog.
1. Exploration in nature
A dog stroller is great for allowing handicapped dogs to enjoy walks in nature, even if they have reduced or no mobility in their legs. A daily walk doesn't just provide physical exercise, it also allows dogs to explore all the different scents and sounds nature has to offer.
These enriching experiences are enjoyed by all dogs, including handicapped dogs. Using a dog stroller is a great way for your dog to experience all the mental stimulation a walk has to offer without the physical demands.
2. Provides comfort on walks
A dog stroller provides increased comfort for handicapped dogs during walks, making it much more enjoyable for them. These products are designed specifically for dogs and have features to ensure the best walks are possible.
Common dog stroller features include:
- Soft padding: To make your dog snug and cozy on their walks.
- Mesh canopy: To provide shade on sunny days to prevent your dog from overheating.
- Waterproof canopy: To stop your dog from getting wet if it's raining.
- Mesh panels: To give your dog more visibility.
- Sturdy wheels: To make pushing the stroller easier along uneven surfaces.
- Safety leash: To secure your dog and prevent them from jumping out and hurting themselves.
3. Reduced strain on owners
If you have a handicapped dog, you may have already tried a dog harness to help increase their mobility. A dog stroller is a great alternative for those pet parents who aren't able to support their dog's weight, particularly for long distances or periods of time. Many handicapped dogs will alternate between a dog wheelchair for exercise and a dog stroller when they tire.
A dog stroller can take the strain off of a pet parent's body whilst also allowing a handicapped dog to enjoy their walks outside.
4. Improved socialization
If your dog is a social butterfly and loves meeting new dogs, then a dog stroller may be a great fit for them. These will allow them to still meet and interact with other dogs on their walks without the burden of walking. This is perfect for the dogs who can’t wait to get outside and greet the neighborhood dogs!
5. An aid for senior dogs
Dog strollers can be a great aid for senior dogs who are starting to slow down. Arthritis is quite a common health problem for senior dogs which affects a dog's mobility.
If your dog is entering their golden years, you may have noticed they aren't able to walk for as long as they used to. A dog stroller is great for allowing your dog to walk some of the way, and then carry them the rest. A dog wheelchair is a great option to aid a senior dog that also needs support when walking. This means they are still able to enjoy their usual long walks but aren't required to walk when they’re too tired.
Final thoughts
Dog strollers can be a great tool for dogs with poor mobility. Whether your dog is handicapped or they are entering their golden years and starting to slow down, there are many benefits of using a dog stroller. From reducing strain on parents' bodies to maintaining a dog's social life, a dog stroller is great for pet parents and their dogs alike.
