If you have a pet that is facing mobility issues like hind leg weakness or paralysis, getting them a wheelchair can be a lifesaver. It can help your furry friend remain independent by allowing them to move around on their own. However, determining the right size of wheelchair for your pet can be tricky. The entire process revolves around just two main factors – your pet’s weight and the measurement of their rear leg height. In this article, we will guide you through each of these factors and explain how you can use them to choose the most appropriate Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair for your furry friend.
Step 1: Knowing Your Pet’s Weight
The weight of your pet is crucial in determining the frame size of the wheelchair that your pet requires. The following guide will help you choose the recommended size of Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair for your pet based on their weight:
– 2 to 10 lbs. – Mini Wheelchair
– 11 to 25 lbs. – Small Wheelchair
– 26 to 49 lbs. – Medium Wheelchair
– 50 to 69 lbs. – Medium/Large Wheelchair
– 70 to 180 lbs. – Large Wheelchair
If you have a Dachshund or a Corgi, you must know that their long bodies may need a little extra length. So, you must consider this factor before making a purchase.
Step 2: Measuring Your Pet’s Rear Leg Height
To measure the rear leg height of your pet, you must make them lie down on their side. This will help you accurately measure the distance from where their hind legs meet their torso to the bottom of their paw. Make sure the leg is not stretched out while measuring as it should have a natural bend. For dogs under 25 lbs., you may need an additional measurement called the armpit to rump measurement (ATR). This measurement is taken from the back of the front leg, through the center of your dog’s body, all the way to the end of the body (at the rump).
The SureFit® Calculator
If you’re still not sure which size Walkin’ Wheels wheelchair is appropriate for your pet, you can make use of the SureFit® calculator. This online wheelchair selector will help you find the perfect size wheelchair for your furry friend by asking for your pet’s breed, weight, and measurements.
Understanding Different Types of Dog Wheelchairs
Before making a purchase, it’s crucial to understand the various kinds of dog wheelchairs available in the market. The type of wheelchair your pet requires depends on where they need the most support. The three main types of dog wheelchairs are:
1. Rear Wheel Dog Wheelchair
This type of wheelchair is the most common and is typically used for pets with hind leg weakness or paralysis. In this style of cart, the back wheels are aligned with the dog’s hips, offering support directly underneath their hind end.
2. Full Support or Quad Wheelchair
Pets who have lost both front and back legs require this type of wheelchair. Along with two wheels in the back, a quad cart also features two wheels at the front of the dog. This style of wheelchair offers balanced support on all four legs.
3. Front-Wheel Wheelchair
This style of wheelchair has wheels positioned at the dog’s front legs and is typically used due to a conformational deformity, missing limb(s), or any other upper body-related issues.
Why Walkin’ Wheels Adjustable Dog Wheelchair
Adjustable dog wheelchairs offer a wide range of benefits over custom-built wheelchairs. Some of the reasons you might want to choose an adjustable dog wheelchair like Walkin’ Wheels are:
– Quick Ordering and Shipping: Walkin’ Wheels is designed to fit a wide range of dogs, so each wheelchair can be shipped the same day!
– A Dog’s Weight Can Fluctuate: An adjustable dog wheelchair allows you to widen or narrow the width of your dog’s cart, so their wheelchair always fits them, regardless of how much they weigh!
– The Wheelchair Can Adapt to Change with Your Pet’s Mobility Needs: Pets diagnosed with degenerative conditions often require wheelchairs that can change with their condition. The Walkin’ Wheels rear dog wheelchair is designed to convert to a full support wheelchair with the simple addition of the front wheel attachment.
– Easy to Maintain: Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchairs are easy to fit, and each adjustment is as simple as a push of a button, similar to how you’d adjust your own crutches.
Common Reasons Why a Dog May Need a Wheelchair
Wheelchairs for dogs, cats, and other pets have become a necessity to keep them mobile and active. Here are some common reasons why pets might require a wheelchair:
– Degenerative Myelopathy
– Hind Leg Weakness
– Paralysis
– Cerebellar Hypoplasia
– IVDD
– Chronic Osteoarthritis or Severe Hip Dysplasia
– Wobbler’s Syndrome or CVI
How to Use a Dog Wheelchair
Using a wheelchair for your pet is a cakewalk. The first step is to understand how the wheelchair functions and the function of each of its components. A dog wheelchair is constructed of many different wheelchair parts, and each piece of the wheelchair has a unique function and use.
Conclusion
One of the best ways to help your furry friend lead a fulfilling life is by getting them an appropriate Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair. The adjustable dog wheelchair offers a wide range of benefits and can help your pet maintain their independence. By following the guide above, you can ensure that your pet gets the most suitable wheelchair that fits their needs.
