Taking care of a paralyzed dog is a challenge, but with adequate knowledge and care, it becomes simple and easy. A healthy and playful dog may get paralyzed due to various reasons such as spine injuries, brain conditions, or any diseases. Types of paralysis in dogs include hind limb paralysis, loss of partial mobility, or lack of control in limb movement. These conditions can affect multiple organs and cause severe diseases.
Paralysis restricts dogs’ movement and they may require personal assistance for regular activities. With proper care and attention, dogs can fully recover from partial paralysis. And if the dog is fully non-mobile, it can still lead a healthy and happy life with your help and support.
Let’s learn a few helpful tips to take care of your paralyzed dog.
6 Ways to Care for a Paralyzed Dog
Paralyzed dogs need special care and attention. How to care and what type of care is required depends on the severity of the condition. Below are some tips for taking care of a paralyzed dog:
1) Set Up a Clean And Comfortable Bed
Arrange a small area with thick padding to make your dog comfortable and prevent them from bed sores. Change the bedding regularly to keep it dry and clean from dirt and mess. Choose the near you to stay close to your animal companion so that you can look after them. Alternatively, you can use a crate or a playpen.
2) Keep Changing Positions Regularly
Changing your paralyzed dog’s position at shot intervals or at least every 4 to 6 hours is necessary if the dog cannot move comfortably. Lying in the same position for a very long time may cause damage to the tissues and poor blood circulation may harm the lungs and other vital organs.
3) Give Some Physical Therapy
Light exercise, gentle massage, and simple physical therapy can help improve mobility, increase blood circulation, and reduce muscle stiffness. Dogs with partial paralysis can gain full functional recovery if an aggressive physical therapy routine is maintained as recommended by the professional expert. Daily exercise reduces muscle atrophy and improves muscle flexibility in paralyzed dogs.
You can keep your dog at a canine rehabilitation center under professional care or learn exercises, stretches, and massages that you can work on your dog at home.
4) Support Your Dog to Maintain Healthy Bathroom Habits
Some paralyzed dogs have no control over their bladder-bowel functions and this leads to inconsistent urine and stool drops. Doggy diapers or absorbent pads can solve this problem. Diapers and pads are to be changed at regular intervals, and clean and dry the skin every now and then to avoid rashes.
Many dogs have difficulty urinating and defecating. For such paralyzed dogs, it should be expressed manually. It is recommended you learn the manual express process from your vet before trying it yourself. This process requires applying gentle pressure on the lower abdomen until the bladder is empty. Repeat this process at periods or at least 4-5 times a day, to keep your dog comfortable.
If your dog eats enough and drinks plenty of water, they can defecate without hassle. If they develop constipation, ask your vet to recommend a safe laxative to regulate their bowel movement.
5) Give Your Dog a Healthy Diet
A nutritious diet and proper hydration keep all dogs healthy and happy. It is crucial to feed quality food to your dog as per its size and age. But do not overfeed and maintain an optimum weight.
6) Give Loads of Tender Loving Care
To be paralyzed is stressful and disheartening for your dog. Your extra attention, love, and special care will help your canine friend cope easily with this situation. Give your paralyzed dog as much time as possible and spend time together watching TV, or simply sit beside your dog and pamper. All these will make you and your paralyzed dog happy and stress-free.
Summing Up
Caring for a paralyzed dog is a big commitment that comes with a lot of responsibilities. You can follow these helpful tips to avoid unnecessary complications and help your paralyzed dog stay happy and comfortable for the rest of its life.