Dogs share many things in common with humans, including their vulnerability to injuries or conditions that can leave them disabled. If your dog can no longer get around or tend to its own needs normally, you can help by employing the following strategies to care for your disabled four-legged family member.

1. Get a Canine Support Sling or Wheelchair

Even disabled dogs need exercise. You can enhance your dog's fitness and enjoyment of life by getting it fitted for a canine support sling or wheelchair. Slings lend extra support to weakened rear limbs, while wheelchairs can fully support non-functioning limbs so your dog can roll around easily and comfortably.

2. Tend to Your Disabled Dog's Skin

A disabled dog may have challenges regarding skin health. Extended periods of sitting or lying in one position may allow for the formation of ulcers, while the inability to self-groom may leave the skin dirty. Check your dog for ulcers regularly, changing its position periodically to prevent ulcer formation and cleaning the skin as needed.

3. Help Your Disabled Dog Eat Right

You might need to change your dog's diet once it becomes disabled. A dog that can't burn as many calories as before may need lower-calorie food or smaller meal portion sizes to keep it from getting obese and unhealthy. Ask your veterinarian if your dog's condition necessitates a shift to a special kind of dog food.

Some disabled dogs may have trouble swallowing their food easily. If your dog has this issue, you can try giving it a mouthful of water before every bite of food. You can even feed your dog food or water through an eyedropper or similar device if the dog can't move its head or jaw well enough to eat or drink normally.

4. Help Your Dog Cope With Incontinence

Poor nerve function or paralysis in dogs will often result in a loss of bladder or bowel control. If your dog struggles with incontinence, purchase soaker pads and/or bed pans to catch the fluid, along with baby wipes to keep your dog clean. Keeping your dog's hair relatively short may make cleanup easier.

Some dogs may have the opposite problem because they can't make themselves urinate or defecate without assistance. Your veterinarian can instruct you on how to express your dog's bladder periodically. You may also need to adjust the fiber in your dog's diet to make its bowel movements more regular and predictable.

You and your disabled dog can enjoy many happy, healthy years together as long as you look after your friend's special needs properly. Talk to your veterinarian, trainer, canine therapist, or other dog care specialist about how you can give your pet the highest quality of life possible.

For more information, contact a pet care service such as Murrells Inlet Veterinary Hospital.