A dog wheelchair plays a central role in a dog’s degenerative myelopathy journey. Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive neurological disease that impairs a dog’s mobility. As MD progresses, a dog’s back legs slowly weaken before the back legs become completely paralyzed. Eventually, the loss of mobility progresses down the dog’s spine to also impact the strength of its front legs. A wheelchair is vital for a dog with degenerative myelopathy. Without a wheelchair, a DM dog is unable to walk, stand, or exercise.
When is the right time to buy a cart for my DM dog?
![Lakeside German Shepherd With Degenerative Myelopathy Uses Dog in Wheelchair to Live Longer](https://www.handicappedpets.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2021/05/Cave.canem_.ares-11.jpg)
A dog wheelchair is a life-changing tool for dogs with DM. The first signs of degenerative myelopathy start small. One of the first indicators of DM is clenching of the hands or dragging of the hind legs. This may be combined with hind leg weakness and signs that the dog’s hind legs are losing strength.
Although these early symptoms of diabetes can be easy to ignore. Because this can only happen occasionally or only when a dog is exhausted. However, when a dog’s back legs collapse under them or a dog has difficulty getting up from the ground, the signs become much harder to ignore.
There is no need for your dog to suffer from loss of mobility, so don’t wait to get a mobility cart for your dog. Instead, introduce a mobility cart at the first signs of hind leg weakness. Not only does this make the transition easier for your dog, but it also gives the pet owner a chance to adjust to using the wheelchair as well! Every dog diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy will eventually need a wheelchair. So, starting a dog diagnosis early will be easier for you and your best friend.
![German Shepherd Wheelchair buy now](https://www.handicappedpets.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2016/05/Amals-Welt.jpg)
What type of wheelchair should I buy for a dog with degenerative myelopathy?
The ideal degenerative myelopathy wheelchair for your pet is a cart that can be adapted for each stage of your dog’s diagnosis. The only certainty with MD is that it will gradually get worse and your dog’s mobility needs will change. As the disease progresses, you need a wheelchair that grows with it. THE Walkin’ Wheels Dog Wheelchair can easily convert from a rear-support wheelchair to a four-wheel wheelchair by simply adding a front accessory. This gives you the flexibility to adjust the level of support your dog needs as their leg strength changes. An adjustable wheelchair means you can start by supporting your pet with a rear wheelchair, and convert their existing cart to a full support wheelchair when additional support is needed on all four legs.
![Full Support Dog Wheelchair with Four Wheels](https://www.handicappedpets.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/11/bear_quadwc.webp)
Choose a fully adjustable dog wheelchair that allows you to adjust the height, length, and most importantly, the width of the wheelchair. An adjustable width means your dog’s wheelchair will always fit, even if your dog loses muscle mass or weight over time. Muscle atrophy is quite common in dogs with DM, so expect your dog’s body shape to change.
Custom dog wheelchairs are made based on your dog’s measurements on the day of order. If your dog’s weight fluctuates, the custom cart may no longer fit your dog comfortably. Additionally, a custom rear dog wheelchair will not turn into a quad cart when your dog’s front legs weaken. When your dog needs extra help with his front legs, he will likely need a brand new wheelchair.
DM Dog learns to walk again
“Rosie was diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy. Over the past year, she has lost most of her strength in her back legs. Rosie got her life back when she received her Walkin’ Wheels. She now chases her laser pointer into a nearby field for hours every night, only to return inside with bribes. Just watch your toes, she doesn’t slow down for anyone! »
– Nora and Kyle
![A German Shepherd in a wheelchair plays in the sprinkler](https://www.handicappedpets.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Rosie-GSD.jpg)
Is exercise beneficial for dogs with DM?
A dog in motion stays in motion. Therefore, continuous and regular physical activity is vital for any dog, even those suffering from loss of mobility. A recent study showed that regular exercise could improve the quality of life and life expectancy of a DM dog. In fact, continuing structured exercise may even slow the progression of the disease!
Dog wheelchairs are essential for helping dogs with degenerative myelopathy stand, walk normally, and stay active.