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.
