Dog Wheelchairs: Even Disabled Pets Have A Positive Impact On People's Moods

We've seen and heard about therapy dogs. The lovable working dogs that are brought around town—in hospitals, in care facilities, in rehabilitation centers, and many other places—to cheer up the sick and sometimes, the lonely. These are usually very informal set ups and are more of social visits to people to support, comfort and boost their spirits as they make way toward recovery or just in their day-to-day living.

While therapy dogs can be any size and breed, none have yet tried to introduce a dog wheelchair assisted pooch into the program. Some are thinking that it might be a good idea. Naturally, it will be crucial to pick a dog that is well adjusted to its condition. A pet that is strong and healthy despite having lost the use of its hind limbs—perhaps through an accident—and has taken very well to using its dog wheelchair. A happy, perky dog is an uplifting, lovable, and positive example of what life has in store even when misfortune strikes.

There may be some challenges in doing something like this but the benefits may outweigh them. Also, there are a lot of pet owners out there who would welcome the opportunity to volunteer. Strict guidelines must first be put together to ensure the wellbeing of both the people the groups are trying to reach out to and the volunteers. Otherwise, it will defeat the purpose. Pet owners must understand that having a dog on a dog wheelchair will not mean automatic qualification. The aim is to help others, so the temperament of our pets must also be suitable for that.

Also, as volunteer therapy dogs, going into a different environment might have a different impact on our pets. This is another thing one must consider. How will they interact with others in a setting that is new to them? Will they be as friendly, lovable and relaxed or will they be snappish and aggressive? While these are considerations further down the line, they are something to think about.

Meanwhile, any sick child will be happy to be cheered up by a cute dog, even one on a dog wheelchair. Besides, it's hard to turn away from a cute dog that continuously tries to get your attention by trying to lick your face.

Get a dog wheelchair for your handicapped dog now at www.dogwheelchairscenter.org and let them experience what life is in store for them.