Dog Mobility Assistance Products
In the world of physical therapy for animals, something is always new! Here are 2 wonderful canine products to know about:
Hip Hound, by OrthoDog
Canine hip dysplasia soft support
The Hip Hound is soft adjustable support. It helps to provide stability to the hind end, designed for use when your dog is active.
It is indicated primarily for:
- mild to moderate hip dysplasia
- arthritis
- and conditions that cause decreased endurance to the hind end during functional activity
The design is simple and effective. It provides a mechanical lift to the dog’s rump, helping to draw the hips back into extension.
This is accomplished through the angle at which the garment is worn, as well as the shape and design of the thigh segments. There is a nice strap connecting the rear mechanism to a chest harness, looping through a D-ring or rectangular fitting.
I recently recommended Hip Hound for “Kodi”, an elderly white-coated golden retriever with weakness of the hind legs and degenerative spinal arthritis. Kodi had reached the point where he couldn’t walk outdoors on a leash for more than 5 minutes before stopping to sit and having to return home, dragging his rear limbs. Although his gait still shows deviations, he is able to take daily leash walks of 12-15 minutes while wearing the Hip Hound!
Tip:
Start by placing the thigh pieces as low as possible, just above the knee/stifle joints, and then fasten the lower Velcro closures tight enough so the pieces will not ride up toward the groin when the dog begins to walk.
With the thigh pieces in the proper position, attach the rear mechanism to the chest harness, looping the attached strap thru the harness ring, pulling slightly to create the angle needed for lift. The dog should still be able to sit.
Now that this is done, if the thigh pieces still ride up slightly while the dog walks, it’s no problem as the Hip Hound will maintain proper mechanics. This product falls under the “now why didn’t I think of that” category!
L’il Back Bracer
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) support
I love using and recommending soft supports due to their adjustability, affordability, and lightness in weight. In addition to Hip Hound, I’m happy to introduce the product, L’il Back Bracer!
The ‘back bracer” is great for dogs with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and other spinal issues.
It reduces pressure on the spine and provides stability for the dog’s back. It comes in various sizes and is indicated primarily for chondrodystrophic (dwarf) breeds that are susceptible to IVDD, such as Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, Corgis and Pekingese, up to 32 pounds. The product is designed by a veterinarian and is certainly long (no pun intended) over-due!