Wheelchairs for dogs

What do you think/feel about them?

With Pugsley being so skeletally challenged, it is only a matter of time before he's going to end up in one.
I refuse to have my happy little puppy PTS just because he's going to end up with busted knees. Because of the severity of the Luxation at such a young age, there isn't an option for second time surgical procedures. It'll be a waste of time and money.

I've been looking into these, while I have time to pick and choose, and have seen so many dogs that lost their legs or mobility get a second lease on life that I think they're awesome! I do think you'll have to consider the choice much more with a large - giant breed dog; obviously depending on the type and severity of the lameness. Manhandling 40 + kgs of dog is something to consider.

I have had comments that they're complete rubbish and that I'm a fool for putting a dog in a wheelchair.

Is it literally like a dog version of our wheelchairs? Or are you talking about the little scooting ones, where the rear end of the dog is attached to the set of wheels?

I think it's a great idea!

Some dogs don't settle to them, but if he does then it'll give him immeasurably greater quality of life.

Go for it!

One way or another, I think it's a good idea! I've not seen an actual dog-version of a wheelchair, so I'm assuming you're talking about the little wheelie contraption that attaches to the rear end.

I think Pugsley is probably the type of dog who would settle very well to it! The people who called you a fool for wanting to help him are obviously very insensitive and ignorant. The facts speaks for themselves! As you said, the wheelchairs have helped thousands of dogs.

I've had so many unasked for opinions expressed about Pugsley. That I'm insane for spending so much money on him, that I'm stupid for wanting to put him in a wheelchair (yes the wheely contraption ) and spending even more money on him.
to them.

I've just seen to many happy faces wheeling around.
My mum considered one for her Great Dane, Storm, but her back is so bad and he weighed 84kgs... in the end he had to be PTS and it feels like murder. A healthy, happy dog killed because he couldn't walk.

http://eddieswheels.com/

WOW! Front wheel carts, back wheel carts, 4 wheel carts (under products)

I think it really comes down the following choice: Give a dog with joint problems a little wheelchair, so that he can enjoy life, or put an otherwise healthy dog to sleep without trying alternatives. So, yeah, I think it's a great idea. He's a little guy, so he'll be zooming around in no time, running over your feet!

Looks like they've got a really extensive range, as well!

I think these are brilliant! Why would you not get one & hinder a dog from moving & running around if it's in your capacity it help or correct it?  There are so many that have a new lease on life due to these wheelchairs.

Wouldn't you do something similar if it was your child.... or would you leave them immobile?

I say go for it when needed and to hell with anyone who thinks you shouldnt spend the time or money!

I'd be at the shop ordering one for mine in a flash!

Well, I'd say it's a lot different for a human child, due to the different species. But if anything, it's probably easier to get a dog used to wheelies, as they don't dwell on what they used to be able to do or what other dogs are able to do. I'd do it for Demps, if there was the chance that he could live a happy life with it. They're tough little animals!

yes it is very different,  I meant why would you not go to the same trouble to find a solution for your dog? Aren't they family in need also?

Oh, I see

http://eddieswheels.com/

I love the pic in front wheel carts where the Border Collie 'pops a wheelie'.
These are quite expensive but there are cheaper options and in here you can get them for between R2500 - R5500. Still expensive but not unbudgetable.

Probably worth it, though, considering what it does! I think you should go for it!

I love the picture of the rabbit and its wheelies.