Owning a Paralyzed Dog - The Complete Care Guide

Book excerpt: If your dog has become paralyzed or you are considering adopting a paralyzed dog, you probably have a lot of questions. What will your life with a paralyzed dog be like? Will your dog have a high quality of life or is euthanasia a better option? What will your daily routine be? Whether your dog will be paralyzed for life or may be able to recover with surgery, rest, or medication, you will need to provide special care. Learn everything that you need to know, from the first conversations with your veterinarian to adjusting to life with a paralyzed dog, to providing care and enrichment so that your dog will live life to the fullest. Find out how you can calculate your dog’s quality of life to make the best decisions for her, as well as how to explain your choices to family and friends. Learn what to watch for in the first weeks with your paralyzed dog, from self-injury to infections. Topics covered in the book include: Why do Dogs Become Paralyzed? Choosing to Adopt a Paralyzed Dog Questions to Ask Yourself Interpreting Your Veterinarian’s Words Quality of Life Complications and Things to Watch for Self-injury Dragging Injuries Bladder and Urinary Tract Infections Urine Scald Beds Sores and Hot Spots Recognizing and Alleviating Anxiety Daily Care Bladder Expression Controlling Urine Leaks and Defecation Training Your Disabled Dog to Wear a Diaper or Belly Band Massage, Touch, and Range of Motion Exercises Diet Bathing and Brushing Bedding and Living Quarters Therapy and Recovery Crate- Rest Tips Deciding on Euthanasia: Doing the Right Thing by Your Dog Living Life Mobility Aids: Wheelchairs and Slings Walk Replacements and Outing Ideas Mental Stimulation for the Paralyzed Dog at Home Training and Communicating with your Paralyzed Dog Socializing with Other Dogs Life with a paralyzed dog can be fun and playful. Discover what toys and games work well for a paralyzed dog, whether she is playing alone, with a canine playmate, or with a human playmate. Consider all of the aspects of your paralyzed dog’s care, from bladder expression and diapers to bathing and preventing urine scald. Decide whether your dog would benefit from a wheelchair for mobility or whether a sling would be better. Therapy can work wonders for paralyzed dogs in recovery or for dogs incapable of recovery in order to elevate their quality of life. Learn about common therapy for paralyzed dogs and whether a specific therapy may be worthwhile for your dog. If you are considering caring for a paralyzed dog, you have a big decision on your hands. Use this guide to inform your decision about whether to take on caring for a paralyzed dog, as well as a practical guide to aid in your daily life with your paralyzed dog.