As pet owners, it is our responsibility to ensure the well-being of our four-legged friends, especially when they begin to experience mobility issues.
To that end, here are some steps you can take to make their lives easier and also to make the most of the time you spend together while they are still relatively active and mobile.
Create a suitable and comfortable living space for your pet
There are several adjustments you can make to your home to meet your pet’s specific needs, including as they get olderso here are some of them:
- First, consider creating living spaces on one level. This reduces the need for your pets to climb stairs, which can be painful, especially for older pets or those with joint problems. Use baby gates or simply close doors leading upstairs.
- Second, surfaces like hardwood floors can be slippery for pets with mobility issues. Non-slip mats in key areas could solve this problem easily, as could traction socks.
- Make sure their sleeping area is also comfortable and easy to access. orthopedic beds can offer great comfort by providing support where they need it most, both important factors given that rest becomes more critical than before due to fatigue associated with old age or reduced movement capacity.
- Last but not least, make sure food and water dishes are placed at a height that eliminates any strain on the neck muscles during meal times. Raised feeders often do a great job!
With these thoughtful changes in the home, you will help your pet get through this difficult phase more comfortably.
Capture photos of special moments that you will remember in the future
![Paralyzed rottweiler in wheelchair hugs owner](https://www.handicappedpets.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/10/Bailey_Rottweiler.jpg)
Despite his mobility difficulties, your pet still has many moments of joy to capture. Taking photos can be a valuable reminder of special times spent together and could serve as encouragement to you and your pet during this transition phase.
Here are some ideas:
- Take photos while they enjoy a meal or favorite toy. This shows their happiness in simple daily activities.
- Capture their interactions with family members or other pets. Such shared experiences often elicit comforting emotions.
- Don’t forget about outdoor adventures, even if it’s just basking in the sun in your backyard or taking slow walks nearby.
Don’t worry about getting professional-level photos, as candid images often speak volumes. Collect these priceless memories over time. You could even design a photo book to keep these precious moments always within reach.
How to introduce physiotherapy and gentle exercises into their routine
![Happy dog in wheelchair during rehabilitation therapy](https://www.handicappedpets.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/10/wheelchair-dog_rehab.jpg)
It is important not to overlook the role of physiotherapy and exercise for pets with reduced mobility. Simple routines can help strengthen muscles, improve balance, and even slow joint deterioration. To begin this journey:
- First, consult your veterinarian or a certified animal physiotherapist for personalized advice tailored specifically to your pet’s condition.
- Low-impact exercises such as walking on soft surfaces or swimming could be beneficial for maintaining muscle mass without causing additional stress on the joints.
- Implementing gentle stretching exercises also helps maintain flexibility, which is essential to reduce discomfort.
Note that all activities should progress gradually depending on how your pet adapts, so never rush things. They may have different comfort levels due to their age or health, which means you should always put their well-being at the top of the priority list when introducing new routines.
The essential
Pets with emerging mobility issues need to be cared for with special care and attention, but it’s also important to create positive memories while continuing to have fun together. So I hope you now know how to deal with both sides of this coin.
![Dachshund wheelchair buy now](https://www.handicappedpets.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/08/Dachshunds-WC-CTA.jpg)