The Best Mobility Solutions For Senior Dogs

As dogs age, their mobility may become more limited. The right supplies make it easier to manage this transition. Supplements can promote sustained joint health, while equipment such as ramps and steps preserve your pet’s freedom of movement at home and on the go. Lifting harnesses and a wheelchair designed for dogs can also be helpful solutions. Find out more about several options for maintaining senior dogs’ mobility and quality of life.

Joint Supplements

Dogs of all ages may benefit from taking joint supplements. These products contain compounds that lubricate joints and support cartilage levels and the condition of connective tissue. Most joint health products contain glucosamine, chondroitin and methylsulfonylmethane or MSM. Some supplements may also feature natural eggshell membrane, green lipped sea mussel and other effective ingredients.

Healthy Dogma supplement powders such as the K9 Mobility Joint Care Dog Supplement are formulated to be sprinkled over or mixed into dog food. This product features the full range of joint care compounds and is the first known joint supplement for pets to feature hyaluronic acid, a cushioning and lubricating component in connective tissue and natural pain reliever. K9 Mobility Joint Care and Chasing Karma Hip and Joint Dog Supplement also feature anti-inflammatory botanicals such as Boswellic acid sourced from the Boswellia serrata tree and tart cherry extract.

Chewable treats such as PetNaturals Hip + Joint Chews can be given to dogs at any time of day. These duck-flavored chews provide a full range of joint health compounds. Dogs weighing more than 15 pounds should have anywhere from two to four treats daily, and the manufacturer recommends dividing this dosage between morning and evening. While joint health is important throughout your dog’s life, senior pets should take the recommended dosage of joint supplement on a daily basis.

Ramps and Steps

Dogs with mobility issues can benefit from the use of ramps and steps. These transitional surfaces can maintain your dog’s lifestyle while reducing the risk of injury to dogs and owners. If your dog rides in the cargo area of an SUV, use a ramp or a foldaway ramp design that also converts into steps for easy entry and exit.

Similar accessibility options are available in materials and colors that match your home decor. Try a ramp that converts into steps in a two-step or three-step design. Pet stairs covered with padded material or with a design that features a built-in storage compartment are also helpful in-home options. This equipment makes it easier for pets to continue to go for rides or access their favorite spots at home.

Orthopedic Beds

Arthritic pets tend to become stiff while sleeping. An orthopedic bed with egg crate foam encased in a poly-canvas cover provides a comfortable and durable surface for relaxing indoors or outdoors. These beds feature a low, step-on design and are available in an assortment of colors and patterns. Dogs suffering from aching joints may also benefit from wearing a body warmer or jumpsuit.

A heating pad is another option for relieving an aging dog’s aching joints while he or she rests. These pads come in a range of sizes and have a built-in thermostat to allow for easy temperature adjustments. Once plugged in, some models remain set at 10 to 15 degrees above the ambient temperature while a pet is not on the pad. These pads heat to approximately 102 degrees while in use. Look for a durable pad that has a washable cover and a steel-wrapped cord for safety.

Lifting Harnesses

If your dog requires mobility assistance while walking, consider a lifting harness. Some harness models support the front or rear of your dog’s body or provide comprehensive full-body support. Specialized harness designs are also available for lifting, or you might prefer the versatility of a multi-purpose lifting and leading harness. These harnesses feature padded panels to provide comfortable and sturdy protection to prevent injury to dogs or owners.

Make sure that any harness you select is the right size for your dog. Chest, neck and waist measurements are helpful for choosing a harness that fits. You should also factor in the body shape and weight of a dog. Breeds with deep chests, stout builds or dogs carrying extra weight may require a harness one size larger than the recommendation based on measurements.

Mobility Wheelchair

A wheelchair for dogs can restore mobility to pets suffering from rear leg pain or weakness. The Best Friend Mobility Dog Wheelchair is a patented wheelchair for dogs designed by an orthopedic surgeon. This mobility solution enables pets with severe arthritis, hip dysplasia, or rear paralysis to move around independently with greater ease and comfort. A wheelchair can also support dogs with rear mobility issues due to injuries or be used during recovery from surgery.

This deluxe lightweight wheelchair features a frame made of aircraft-grade aluminum with a nylon webbing harness for strength and comfort. Measure the length of your dog’s back legs and choose from six sizes that range from extra extra small to extra large. The height, length and width settings of each wheelchair size can also be adjusted to achieve the right fit.

Depending on your dog’s mobility needs, you may want to consider preventative or ameliorative supplements and equipment. As your pup ages, these supplies can help to support joint condition, manage pain, and reduce the risk of injury during everyday activities. Consult your vet if your dog is experiencing difficulty walking. These solutions may be most effective when paired with prescribed treatments.