Handicapped Pets

Handicapped Dog Meets Handicapped Boy

2012-01-29T17:05:00.001-05:00

"Every boy should have two things: a dog, and a mother willing to let him have one" ~ Anonymous

We wish Lucky and David a wonderful life together! We feel so privileged to see the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair playing a role in this happy ending!

You can continue to follow Lucky's story on his Facebook page here - A Dog Named Lucky.

A Snow Day in the Life of Oscar

2012-01-26T18:10:00.002-05:00

We could have a snow day here in New Hampshire tomorrow. Okay, it is quite possible that it may become more of an icy morning, but the potential for a real snow day got us reminiscing about when we were kids. Many of you may recall those snowy mornings way back before the internet and automated telephone calls when we had to get up early and listen to the radio in the hopes that our school's closing number would be announced. And then it was off to build snow forts, pick snowball fights and try desperately to hang on for dear life as we "steered" our Flexible Flyer sleds down a hill filled with obstacles.

Oscar's Snow Day from cmerry on Vimeo.

If seeing Oscar enjoying the winter weather in his Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair and drag bag has brought back memories of your own snow days, we hope that you will share them in the comments section. And if your snow day memories include time spent with a dog, tell us about his or her winter adventures, too!

Lookin' Back and Walkin' Forward

2012-01-03T22:33:00.001-05:00

As we look back on 2011 and the remarkable progress that so many handicapped pets have made in regaining their mobility over the past year, we wanted to highlight the stories of few whose triumphs over their disabilities inspired us and continue to provide so much hope to pets facing similar challenges. Thank you to our community of supporters who have networked and contributed to make these successes a reality.

Duke gets a Walkin' Wheels and a second chance

In February, a number of our customers and supporters on our social networks contacted us to request our assistance with a dog named Duke who had been found shot and left for dead in the Des Moines River. Although Duke had been rescued and was under the care of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, the surgery to remove the bullet in his spine was not able to restore the mobility in his rear legs.

A former street dog who had been born in the wild and relied on the kindness of strangers to provide him food and occasional shelter, Duke now needed a wheelchair and a permanent home with someone who would be dedicated to caring for his special needs as a result of a senseless act of cruelty.

As a company that provides dog wheelchairs and other products for elderly, disabled and injured pets, HandicappedPets.com understands that having the right tools to care for special needs can often be the deciding factor when caretakers are weighing options between giving a pet a second chance at life or choosing euthanasia. In the case of a homeless pet with special needs, adopters are more likely to commit to a companion who has limited mobility if the right equipment such as a dog wheelchair is readily available.

While we cannot respond to every request for assistance with a donated Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair, HandicappedPets.com does offer discounted pricing to non-profit animal organizations; provides discounts and product donations to the non-profit Handicapped Pets Foundation which assists individual pet owners who are facing financial difficulties; and we have frequently donated Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchairs in cases where doing so can increase a homeless pet's chances of adoption.

A number of people who contacted us about Duke's situation wanted to know if we could also suggest a sanctuary where Duke might be able to reside. There are certainly a number of sanctuaries where a pet with special needs could reside on a temporary or long-term basis. However, based on our experience with serving special needs pets, we also believed that potential adopters who were able to provide for Duke's needs would likely apply to provide him a home and a family of his own.

Lucy in her new pink Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair

As an example of a similar success, we shared the story of Lucy with people who had informed us of Duke's situation. Completely paralyzed in her rear legs and suffering from incontinence as a result of being struck by a car while wandering as a stray on the streets in Puerto Rico, Lucy was adopted by Courtney Dunning and brought to live in New Hampshire in 2008. Only two years later, Lucy made history by becoming the first dog in a wheelchair to reach the summit of Mt. Washington - the tallest peak in the northeastern United States.

We hoped for a similar success for Duke in Iowa, and we were privileged to be able to provide a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair for him. Now, we are grateful everyday for the opportunity to see Duke flourish in his new home with his dedicated owner Susan and canine siblings Theo and Molly.

Later in the fall of last year, we were contacted with a request to assist another disabled dog that had been found as a stray by the Cumberland County, NC animal control. Having recently donated and/or discounted several Walkin' Wheels to various non-profit groups, our budgeted supply of equipment for charitable requests to organizations was at an all time low.

However, we did not want to give up on a stray whose potential for adoption could be significantly increased if he had equipment to make him mobile. We also understood that a county shelter had very limited funding and could not afford to purchase a dog wheelchair with so many homeless animals to care for and place up for adoption. We were so impressed that Scooter was being provided a second chance at an otherwise crowded facility that we wanted to find a way to help.

It was then that we remembered about an offer from a rescue group in Florida who had a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair that had been donated to them by a volunteer. They did not have a dog currently in need and were offering it up for another non-profit to use. Death Row Dog Rescue in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida soon had their second hand Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair en route to North Carolina to get Scooter rolling. HandicappedPets.com provided the correct size interchangeable wheels for the donated adjustable frame, and Scooter was wheeling around the county shelter in no time!

Scooter says goodbye to the shelter staff who rescued him

Similar to Duke, Scooter has since been adopted into a wonderful home, and we have enjoyed following his progress. We have also recently learned that Scooter's paralysis was also caused by a gunshot wound. Scooter is scheduled to be seen by a veterinary specialist in the coming weeks to see if the removal of a bullet lodged in his spine will be able to restore some or all of his mobility.

In 2012, we hope that we will be similarly blessed in our ability to provide innovative solutions for pets with special needs, and we invite you to join us in our commitment to ensuring that elderly, disabled and injured pets have the products, services and support required to lead happy, healthy, active lives. We invite you to connect with us on our social networks on Facebook and Twitter and in our help and advice forum where we share the stories of pets in need and network with various organizations and individuals in support of pets with disabilities.

We hope that you will join us in making more second chances a reality in 2012. We wish everyone a healthy, happy and peaceful New Year!

Spokesdog Toha was Almost Dinner

2011-12-09T14:25:00.000-05:00

Toha in her Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair with her adopter Dr. Antonino

Toha was literally almost dinner earlier this year before she managed to break free from being tethered by her back legs awaiting slaughter at a dog meat restaurant in Dili, Timor-Leste. After dragging herself to freedom by her front legs, Toha needed emergency surgery to amputate much of what remained of her cruelly damaged rear legs.

She was brought to and named after TOHA -Timor Oan Hadomi Animal - a non-profit organization focusing on animal welfare in Timor-Leste. Toha has since become the organization's spokesdog and "living proof of the brutality we are trying to eradicate, of the essential good and forgiving nature of our canine companions and of the value of each and every creature's life." You can read more about Toha's rescue, surgery and adoption by Dr. Antonino here.

Thanks to Dr. Antonino's lifesaving efforts and to support from the World Vets organization as well as a rescue discount on a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair provided by Handicappedpets.com, Toha has since made a remarkable recovery from this unspeakable cruelty. Now, Toha is able to continue her important work on behalf of other animals in Timor-Leste.

To learn more about products, services and support available for elderly, disabled and injured pets, visit HandicappedPets.com or follow us on Facebook and Google+.

Sofa Saver and Drag Bag Better Together

2011-12-02T15:58:00.001-05:00

While many of the products available at HandicappedPets.com are specifically designed for use by pets with special needs, we also carry a number of items that benefit all pets regardless of whether they are elderly, disabled or injured. All pets have similar needs, and many of our customers who visit our site for the products, service and support available for their disabled pets also want to have the opportunity to shop for other pets in their households.

Sofa Saver available from HandicappedPets.com

One of our newest items is the Walkin' Wheels Sofa Saver for Handicapped Pets which protects your furniture and/or car upholstery from shedding, drool or other unintentional messes that our canine and feline companions occasionally create. The sofa saver is constructed of brush polyester with a nylon backing that will help keep your furniture and car upholstery clean while allowing your pets to share the same comfortable seating that you enjoy.

The sofa saver can be machine washed and line dried. Don't miss out on our limited time 50% off sale on sofa savers which are currently available for only $19.50! Consider buying two so that you will always have one sofa saver available while the second one is being laundered.

Cliffie in his Drag Bag for Handicapped Pets

The sofa saver is equally beneficial for households with a handicapped pet, and it is a perfect complementary product to our Walkin' Wheels Drag Bag for Handicapped Pets. The drag bag provides protection against injuries from scraping when paralyzed pets ambulate across surfaces such as tile or hardwood floors. The drag bag provides protection from injuries when pets are not using their Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchairs and also serves as a back up measure for incontinence products such as male wraps and pet diapers that can fall out of position when pets drag themselves.

To learn about how other caretakers of pets with special needs address mobility, incontinence and other issues facing elderly, disabled and injured pets, be sure to visit our handicapped pets help and advice forum.

A Day in the Life of a Handicapped Dog

2011-11-19T12:18:00.000-05:00

HandicappedPets.com is honored to have been a part of Oscar's day in the life filmed on November 11, 2011. We are so thrilled to see Oscar living life to the fullest and enjoying mobility with his Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair and drag bag for handicapped pets.

You will be truly inspired by Oscar's attitude and his family's dedication!

A Day In The Life Of A Handicapped Dog from cmerry on Vimeo.

Jack Russell Needs Dog Wheelchair

2011-11-10T18:33:00.005-05:00

UPDATE - Thank you to everyone who contributed to Max's rescue group to help him get his Walkin' Wheels. Max has reached his goal, and we look forward to seeing him in his new dog wheelchair!

Today, December 5, 2011, we are pleased to report that we have received a photo and an update on Max in his new Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair. His foster family reports that, "Max's Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair is truly a blessing that has enriched his life and you can see how happy he is now."

Max in his Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair!

Thanks to everyone who contributed to help get Max mobile again. To read about Max's rescue and his life before wheels, see report below.

Max is approximately 13 yrs. old, and he suffers from cataracts and has degenerative myelopathy - the canine version of Lou Gehrig's disease. He can no longer walk on his own as his rear legs are too weak.

Max is still full of spirit, and he has the will to live.

Max's previous owners found themselves in a financial situation where they had lost both their jobs and home. His family was entering a homeless shelter where they were not allowed to take their companion of thirteen years. His family was headed to the veterinarian to have Max put to sleep when someone called the rescue group and asked if they could take the little guy.

Max's foster mom has a very big heart, and she is giving Max love and the home he deserves. However, she has to put Max in a sling to take him out and get some exercise. If his rescue group could get a set of wheels for Max, it would enrich the rest of his life and ease the burden on his foster mom.

HandicappedPets.com will offer a rescue discount on the purchase of a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair for Max, and his rescue group C.A.R.E. Southcoast would be extremely grateful for contributions to assist with the cost of his wheelchair and medical care.

Donations for Max can be made online here in care of Animal Advocates, Inc. Click the donate button in the upper right had corner of the page. Please make a reference in your donation that it is for "Max's Wheels".

If you would prefer to send a check, please make it made payable to "C.A.R.E. Southcoast" with a reference to Max's Wheels and mail as follows:

C.A.R.E. Southcoast
596 Hathaway Rd.
New Bedford, MA 02740
Attn: Ruth Marshman

Thank you for your support of Max and his efforts to get a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair. We look forward to reporting on his progress.

Pittie in Pink with Walkin' Wheels

2011-10-31T21:57:00.000-04:00

Kizmet in her Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair

Introducing Kizmet who is also known as Kizzie. Kizmet is the beloved mascot at the Mesquite Veterinary Clinic in Mesquite, Nevada.

We wanted to share this update and a few photos that we received recently from this inspiring Pittie in Pink!

"Kizmet came to us 7 years ago after being involved in a car accident on the interstate with her mom. Kizmet was ejected from the vehicle and suffered from a fracture of the back leaving her paralyzed. Her mom did not survive the accident, so Kizzie stayed with us.

Kizmet plays with her best friend Katie

Kizzie had gained some mobility after Dr. Purner adopted Katie. Katie was a puppy and loved to play with Kizzie. They would play in the yard, but Kizzie always had the disadvantage because Katie could knock her over, and Kizzie couldn't keep up.

Her new wheels have given her back her mobility and as you can see from the pictures, they are now playing again. It's very heart moving to see her playing and having fun with her best friend Katie.

Thank you so much!"

Dr. P, Angela, Tammy, Julie, Alex, Ben, Brandie, Linda, Cat, Joann

Kizmet's story, while inspiring, is also a reminder for everyone to buckle up your pets for safety with a seat belt when they are riding in the vehicle.

Paralyzed Dog Rescued from Down Under

2011-10-26T18:09:00.000-04:00

Jasper in his Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair

Today, we received a much anticipated follow up report from our customer Christina S. who recently rescued a disabled dog that she found homeless and roaming in a parking lot near her home in Australia. Christina apologized for writing a novel about her boy Jasper, but in our mind there is no such thing as too long a rescue story, so we wanted to share Jasper's with you and hope that you enjoy every word as much as we did!

Jasper's Story as told by his rescuer Christina

Jasper is an Australian Cattle dog/Blue Heeler cross - with what, we don't know. He came into our lives last Christmas on 23rd December 2010, which I have affectionately given him as his "birthday", as it was the first day of the rest of his new life. I found him wandering the carpark of our local community shop looking very bedraggled, exhausted and tired. No one paid any notice to him but I did. I saw him wearily wandering about and I stopped my car to go to him before he was hit. He was so obviously neglected, if not dumped. But he was wary about my approach and it took me some time to catch him. When I did get close enough he trotted right by me and jumped into my car and sat on the floor at the pedals. I took him home thinking I would reunite him with his owners (as I have done with many wayward pooches in our area), but alas, he had no tag - only an old rusty chain as a collar.

I took him to be scanned and he did not have a microchip either. He was very obviously old, slightly crippled and seemed to not be toilet trained or he had an incontinence problem. I rang some shelters and no one could take him, and for me the pound simply was not an option. He would be destroyed within the week because he had no chip, and no one wanted an old crippled dog.

The first week or so we called him Blue, being a Blue Heeler, but as it was obvious he was here to stay I wanted to come up with name that showed some thought into choosing one. I'd just finished reading the Twilight series again, so Jasper came to mind. Somehow Edward did not cut it for a dog's name. *grins* We have an English Staffordshire Bull Terrier as well, and the two of them took to each other right away which was good because as a rule Jasper does not like other dogs.

The first thing on the agenda was to treat his skin condition, as he smelt awful shocking. I gave him a bath that first day and he cried. I could see the fleas running over him as I bathed him and I wondered really how long he had been on the streets. A visit to our vets told me he had an allergy to flea bites, and the smell was a result of an infection left untreated by those bites. He was given antibiotics and within a week or so he no longer had that "odour" and he had a spring in his step! He still had a few fleas but they were treatable and soon disappeared. Next, I got him desexed and microchipped, followed by his vaccinations and heartworming. Finally I took the certificate to the council and had him registered. At last Jasper had a home where he was loved and cared for - his forever home.

Jasper's fine dining

From the time Jasper came to us we noticed that he wasn't very strong in his back legs and quite possibly would lose the use of them before long. The vet informed me that he had a neurological condition which prevented messages from his brain telling his back end to work. So, his incontinence was due to the fact he wasn't receiving messages from his brain, and when he did leave "messages" he was completely unaware of the fact. He would do so in his sleep and even out for a walk – he was completely unaware. His incontinence was the first sign of this condition we had at the time, and sadly was more than likely the reason he was dumped. It was clear that Jasper was a very faithful dog, especially to me, though very wary of strangers often barking at the electricity meter man through the gate when he came to read our meter. I often joked he didn't bark loud enough because we still got the bill! *grins* He has a beautiful loving nature with a gorgeous "smile" that lights up his face. You always know when your dog is smiling by the look on their faces. And Jasper's would light up when he played ball or whenever I was around. After three months with us, Jasper could recognise my voice over the telephone's speakerphone and his ears would prick up listening to me.

Jasper plays tug of war

Winter arrived early and the cooler days started taking a toll on his aging body. In May, we went on the Million Paws Walk for the RSPCA and the distance was too far for him, and I ended up carrying him for most of the way. He enjoys a walk, as dogs do, but while the mind was willing, the body wasn't. During the colder months we brought him inside to sleep as it was too cold for him outside, even though Australia's climate is more temperate than some, it's still cold. It was during these months his body declined. Suffering arthritis as well we as the neurological condition, and now dementia, he still battled on and at dinner time he would race my Staffy to the dinner bowl!

By the end of August we noticed just how much of a toll winter had taken on him as it became more of a struggle for him to walk without falling down. Even barking at the gate would result in him falling to the ground, often still barking at whoever was there. Now, he can't stand or walk a few steps without his legs giving way beneath him. Then adding dementia to the equation the poor boy can no longer understand why he can’t walk, run or even stand they way he used to. After watching his wonky walk from his fervent bone-searching in my parent's backyard one day, I decided to look into a wheelchair for him. I googled carts for dogs and the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair was the first on the list. I have to admit I didn't look at any others after looking into the Walkin' Wheels. I did browse to see what else there was but nothing compared to what the Walkin' Wheels offered. It didn't take me long to decide as for me, ensuring the comfort and quality of life for Jasper was an important enough reason. I love the fact that it is completely adjustable to suit any dog between 20 and 180 pounds, which is a wide range, and knowing that even when Jasper's gone, the Walkin' Wheels cart will still be of use to another dog because it was not custom-made just for him. To me, that makes it value for money.

I rang the Handicapped Pets customer line several times in the next few days and spoke with a wonderfully helpful representative who helped me decide on ordering through them in the US rather than through one of their resellers here in Australia, as even with the high cost of shipping it was still far cheaper to purchase from there. She was incredibly helpful and sent me some information and a step by step process of introducing your dog to the cart. I was most impressed with the service which made the transaction worthwhile and pleasant.

The cart arrived within 12 days and even following the introductory steps, Jasper was neither phased or perturbed by the cart or the front harness, and within a couple of hours Jasper was wandering our yard with his new wheels! Soon after we could see that "spark" come back into his face which had long been absent at the sheer effort and often frustration, it took him to walk or even stand these days. Watching him in the cart even just on the grass in the backyard you could see that smile return. And while he can no longer take lengthy walks, he does enjoy shorter ones with his Walkin’ Wheels which made my decision to buy them for him worthwhile.

Jasper and the joy of his Walkin' Wheels

I know that while Jasper is an old dog we don't know how long he has left. What with his ailing body, incontinence, arthritis and dementia, I just want to be able to give him the best possible chance and the best possible care I can with whatever time he has left. Sadly watching him now, I doubt he will be with us next winter, but I know I will have done what I can for him. All I can do is continue to love him and look after him, because I know that no matter what he is grateful for all I have done for him in the short time he has been with us. My husband told me just recently that despite his reservations about the purchase, after seeing the joy on Jasper's face and the little spring in his step, he believes that my purchasing the Walkin’ Wheels was the best thing I have done for him. But I know what Jasper thinks - my rescuing him from the streets and a sure lonely death is the best thing I've done for him. His Walkin' Wheels is a close second! *grins*

Paralyzed Dogs Need Wheelchairs and More

2011-09-26T16:50:00.000-04:00

Lexus in Walkin' Wheels Pink dog wheelchair (also in Blue)

When a dog is paralyzed and can no longer walk on its own due to a temporary or permanent disability, many pet owners search for mobility assistance with the Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets. The Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair is an ideal choice for pet owners because it fully adjusts to fit any size dog, requires only one simple measurement of a dog's height, and it can be ordered online or purchased locally at a dealer location such as a local veterinarian's office. The Walkin' Wheels will give your dog freedom to run and play and get the exercise that he or she needs to enjoy a happy, healthy and active life.

Rescue dog Ru Ru enjoys roaming in his Drag Bag

However, dogs cannot be in wheelchairs for extended periods of time. Dog wheelchairs are ideal for supervised exercise outside, providing the opportunity to take care of business when nature calls or while moving from room to room in the house. Paralyzed dogs still need to be able to enjoy a comfortable and active life outside of their wheelchairs.

For this reason, HandicappedPets.com offers a full array of products designed to help paralyzed dogs enjoy life whether they are relaxing on the floor in the family room, moving about the house, sleeping on the sofa or even while riding in the car.

Buster and Daisy relax on the Sofa Saver

Products such as our drag bag, sofa saver and safety belt are ideal choices for pet owners who want to provide an extra level of comfort and support for their paralyzed dogs. The drag bag provides protection from cuts and scrapes while also ensuring a second level of protection against leaks for dogs that are incontinent. The sofa saver will protect your furniture and car seats from pet hair while also providing extra protection against leaks and splatters.

Pet seat belts save lives

Pet seat belts are common sense for all dogs to use while riding in the car, and we offer our pet safety belts in sizes from small to extra large. Any dog can become a distraction to its driver or become injured in a car accident if not properly restrained. We especially recommend that handicapped pets be restrained with a pet seat belt while riding in the vehicle since they are not as capable of bracing themselves against sudden stops or sharp turns.

For additional information about our products, please visit our NEW online catalog. To request a print version of the HandicappedPets.com catalog, please send a message with "Catalog Request" in the subject line and your mailing address details to messages@handicappedpets.com

Join Us for Dog Wheelchair Discounts and More Special Offers

2011-08-25T16:10:00.000-04:00

At HandicappedPets.com, we are proud of the community of pet caretakers that we have assembled to share information, experiences and advice about caring for elderly, disabled and injured pets. We also want our community of pet caretakers to be able to take advantage of current discounts on products available for pets with mobility problems or other special needs. And, of course, we want to help keep all of our pets happy, healthy, safe and happy!

Today, we bring you two current discounts available online for a limited time.

Walkin' Wheels Dog Wheelchair

One is a special offer available by visiting DogKarts.com where for a limited time, you can save $50.00 off the purchase of a Walkin' Wheels or a Walkin' Wheels Mini dog wheelchair. The only fully adjustable, veterinarian approved dog wheelchair is now available in pink or blue. The promotional code for this sale is available by visiting our Facebook page here. The promo code will be posted on our wall and also sent as an update to our fans.

PetSafetyBelt.com

The other current online discount is for a product for all pets that will keep them safe while traveling. Please visit PetSafetyBelt.com to take advantage of the all new, lower prices on seat belts for your canine companions. Buckle up your pet for a safer and more comfortable ride for the entire family! Stay tuned for future special deals available only for fans of HandicappedPets.com.

Profile Handicapped Pet of the Week

2011-08-22T11:28:00.000-04:00

Pumpkin is waiting to be adopted!

The profile pet of the week is a regular feature at our facebook page. The weekly pet is often modeling one of the many products available for elderly, disabled or injured pets. Photos of dogs in their Walkin' Wheels wheelchairs are frequently submitted by their proud owners who want to showcase their canine companion and demonstrate how happy the dog is to be mobile again.

This week, however, our profile pet of the week is one who does not yet have a family to call her own. Pumpkin is a rescue dog residing patiently with 160 other canines at a shelter in Greece.

To assist in creating awareness about Pumpkin and help find her a home, we have selected her as our profile pet of the week for August 22, 2011. We know that our fans from around the globe will be interested in helping this wonderful dog roll into a new home soon!

The following is a description of Pumpkin's rescue and rehabilitation as provided to us by Katerini Strays volunteer community.

"Our Pumpkin was found by the street. Probably hit by a car, she was left there crippled to die. But she is a fighter with a strong will to live! Playful, joyful, with a broken spine and no chance of ever walking since, as the vet told us, when we found her, it was almost a month past the accident. Many people offered to help. Mr Hourdakis offered a dog wheelchair! God bless him and all! Handicapped pets delivered the wheels at 11th May 2011. Our Pumpkin’ is off riding like the wind! She’s almost 19 kilos (41 pounds) now, she has no wounds from dragging her legs around any more, she’s vaccinated, will be spayed and she is 10 months old. We are looking for a loving home for her – people who will be committed to her well-being and willing to accept her unconditional love!"

A complete photo album of Pumpkin is also available for potential adopters.

Celebrating Canine Rehab and Adoption

2011-07-20T15:09:00.000-04:00

Beauty after surgery

There are so many reasons why Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchairs are the ideal choice for your canine rehabilitation needs. One of the most important yet frequently overlooked uses of the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair is as a rehabilitation device for a young dog that has been injured and is still growing. In the past, when custom made dog wheelchairs were the only canine mobility option, caretakers attending to the rehabilitation needs of a young dog were faced with the decision to either wait until the dog was fully grown before providing it with a wheelchair or to purchase several different custom made wheelchairs to accommodate the dog's increases in height, weight and length.

Of course, neither of these options provided a solution that was both time and cost effective for the owner or the dog. Waiting until a dog was fully grown before investing in a custom made wheelchair meant losing the opportunity for him or her to exercise and/or to possibly regain its mobility sooner. Purchasing several different sizes of wheelchairs while the dog was still growing was extremely expensive, and it required a lot of guesswork with respect to rate of growth and determining when was the best time to order another custom made wheelchair.

Beauty recovering in her Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair

With the invention of the Walkin Wheels, a fully adjustable dog wheelchair, young dogs who became permanently or temporarily disabled suddenly had the opportunity to purchase just one wheelchair that could adjust in height, length and width to accommodate their growth as well as their changing mobility needs.

Recently, we had the opportunity to provide a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair for a young dog that was rescued by the Georgia Humane Society. The flat coated retriever named Beauty was only approximately six months old when she was found after being hit by a car in March 2011. HandicappedPets.com offered a rescue discount towards the purchase of Beauty's Walkin' Wheels and shared her story with its customers and followers on our social networks. Fans of HandicappedPets.com and the Georgia Humane Society generously contributed towards the cost of Beauty's surgery and wheelchair. Since it was believed that Beauty would ultimately recover her mobility following surgery and rehabilitation, the rescue organization wanted a dog wheelchair that could be used to aid in her recovery and then also be available to assist future dogs in need.

Beauty stands on her own two feet!

We are so thrilled to share the follow up report that Beauty has indeed fully regained the use of her rear legs, and she has also been adopted into a new home! Our sincere thanks to everyone who shared her story and contributed towards the cost of her rehabilitation. Your support helped Beauty recover and find a new home, and the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair will continue to assist other dogs in need of mobility assistance in the future. It is a cause for celebration of canine rehabilitation and adoption!

My Dog Needs a Wheelchair

2011-07-12T17:42:00.000-04:00

There are a number of reasons why your dog may need a wheelchair whether it be as a result of a paralyzing injury, to assist with a decline in mobility caused by an illness or as a way to help him or her recover from surgery or to use while receiving rehabilitative therapy. The Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair from HandicappedPets.com is the ideal dog wheelchair for all of these situations because it can be adjusted to fit any size dog or any level of mobility from partial to complete paralysis of the rear legs.

Ordering a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair is very simple. Dog owners can place an order online using the HandicappedPets.com cart wizard which requires that you enter basic information about your dog's age, breed, weight, and provide one simple measurement of your dog's height. The Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair ships the same day you place your order, and overnight delivery is available.

The Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair is also ideal for use by rescue groups and animal shelters because it can be used by different sizes and breeds of dogs. At HandicappedPets.com, we know that many rescue groups are struggling to provide basic care and shelter for the animals in their care. So, we always offer a discount to rescue dogs who are in need of wheelchairs on either a temporary or long-term basis.

Chato has temporary wheels from a golf club cart!

Today, we learned about a dog named Chato who is currently residing in Cabo, Mexico. Chato attracted the attention of a group of travelers who are as enthusiastic about Cabo as they are about helping Chato get back on his feet.

Most recently, Chato started using a handmade wheelchair that was fashioned out of the parts from a cart used to carry golf clubs. While we appreciate the ingenuity, HandicappedPets.com would very much like to see Chato in a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair that will properly support and position his body for rehabilitative and/or permanent use as a mobility device.

The latest report indicates that, "Chato is eating very well and is playful with the other dogs and cats here. He barks at strangers that walk past the house and is happy to see me when I come home. Only now, he has no use of his back legs...even his tail no longer wags. He is strong in his upper-body and is able to pull himself around with his front legs and walk with me holding up his back-end."

If you are a member of Facebook, you can access Chato's full story in this note here.

We wanted to share Chato's from Cabo in the hopes that you may be able to assist in getting in his efforts to purchase a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair. Donations may be made to assist Chato here at the Merry's Dogs website. Thank you in advance for your kindness and generosity in support of Chato!

Protect Your Dog Wheelchair from Theft

2011-07-06T14:56:00.001-04:00

Recently, there have been a number of news reports about dog wheelchairs being stolen from outside pet owners' properties. While it is unimaginable what type of person would actually steal a dog wheelchair, we recognize the need to be able to secure such items. One of the easiest ways to protect your dog wheelchair from theft is to be able to keep it in sight at all times.

Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair

That is why we recommend the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair because it is the only canine cart that folds flat for easy transportation and storage. In fact, the Walkin' Wheels is so lightweight and transportable that it is sold with a tote bag! You will not have to worry about how you will be able to fit your dog wheelchair through doorways or into the car for special trips to the beach or to the dog park.

In addition to being stylish and transportable, the veterinarian recommended Walkin' Wheels is also fully adjustable in height, length and width so it can be easily re-sized to fit different sizes of dogs and varying levels of mobility ranging from complete to partial paralysis of the rear legs.

To learn more about Walkin' Wheels and how to purchase a dog wheelchair that you can securely take with you wherever you and your pet travel, visit us online.

Cliffie loves visiting the beach in his Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair!

Drag Bag for Paralyzed Pets

2011-06-29T15:02:00.000-04:00

Jake enjoys the freedom and protection of the Drag Bag

Yes, it really is called a drag bag. After many discussions about what to call this item, we decided that it was best to keep it simple. When handicapped pets are not using their wheelchairs and they need to get around, they often have to drag their rear legs behind them.

While it is only natural for a pet to want to continue moving through his or her environment, this dragging can cause problems such as scrapes and bruising. For incontinent pets who are also paralyzed, it is nearly impossible to keep a pet diaper or a male wrap on while he or she is dragging across the kitchen floor.

So, the Walkin' Wheels Drag Bag can serve a dual purpose by providing protection for the dog or cat's hindquarters while also keeping a pet diaper or male wrap securely in place.

To learn more about dog wheelchairs and other products available to assist elderly, disabled or injured pets, visit us online.

Pet People in Iowa

2011-06-17T16:51:00.001-04:00

This morning's news reported about a group of people in Iowa who were helping to grant a dying man's wish to be reunited one last time with his dog. The story of how a community cooperated to grant this homeless man's last wish and to provide a new home for his canine companion was so inspiring as the video below and linked here demonstrates.

At HandicappedPets.com, we already knew that there are many wonderful pet people in Iowa who are willing to go the extra mile to lend a hand to man's best friend, and this story reminded us of two other very special adoptions that took place there recently.

One is our friend Duke - a dog who was found shot and paralyzed in the Des Moines River earlier this year. Duke has since been adopted into a wonderful new home and keeps in touch with the community of supporters who rallied to raise money for his care and to publicize his need for a family. He regularly posts updates on his Facebook page about life with his owner Susan and his canine siblings Theo and Molly. And Duke continues to give back by raising money and awareness for other homeless animals.

Duke has also reached out and provided words of advice to his friend Chance who was recently rescued after becoming paralyzed in a collision with a train. It appears as though Chance may have been cruelly left tied to the railroad tracks where he was hit. Luckily, Chance also got a second chance at life thanks to another wonderful pet person from Iowa. Sara has welcomed Chance into her home, and is also continuing to communicate with the many people who made his journey from paralyzed pup in Kansas to rock star on wheels in Iowa possible.

You can read more about Chance's journey in this report from the organization Pilots N Paws who transported Chance from Kansas to his doggie field of dreams in Iowa.

Sadowski's Second Chance

2011-05-31T13:13:00.000-04:00

Sadowski is rolling along in her new adoptive home!

The pit bull mix, who is now named Sadowski, was in terrible shape when she was rescued by Dr. Jaclyn Bruce of Marathon Veterinary Hospital in Marathon, Florida. The young dog had been struck by a car and left on the side of the road in April 2011. In addition to suffering a paralyzing injury, Sadowski also had a skin infection, fleas, hookworm and mange. She was so filthy that it was not immediately obvious that she had a bright, beautiful white coat underneath all the dirt on her 40-pound body.

Sadowski was lucky to have survived and to have been given such wonderful veterinary care. Sadowski also attracted the attention of Tara who was working as an emergency technician in the hospital that evening. Tara fell in love, and she adopted Sadowski within three days of her arrival at the Marathon Veterinary Hospital.

HandicappedPets.com learned about Sadowski's rescue while attending the CVC Veterinary Conference in Washington, DC in early May. We wanted to do our part to assist in Sadowski's rescue and recovery, so we donated a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair to the effort.

Tara reports that Sadowski is doing extremely well with her wheelchair and has become an entirely different dog who enjoys going for her walks. "She runs and smiles," Tara explained in a recent e-mail message that contained the above photo.

We are so glad that Walkin' Wheels could play a part in Sadowski's second chance!

Maggie the Corgi is a Therapy Wonder on Wheels

2011-05-19T14:04:00.000-04:00

The Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair available from HandicappedPets.com has assisted many dogs who provide service to their human companions. Walkin' Wheels have helped with the mobility needs of canines who have recently retired from search and rescue, police work, military service and even a retired guide dog for the blind.

Recently, we were contacted with a request to assist Maggie the Corgi, a therapy dog and founding member of Nature's Edge Therapy Center located in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. Maggie is 12 years old and suffers from severe hip dysplasia. Nature's Edge provides speech, occupational and physical therapy for children with a variety of disorders with a special emphasis on treating children and young adults with autism, brain injury and cerebral palsy.

We were honored to be able to assist Maggie with the donation of a Walkin' Wheels Mini dog wheelchair that will enable her to continue serving the children at Nature's Edge Therapy Center. To learn more about Maggie and other therapy animals at Nature's Edge or to make a donation in support of their work, click here.

To learn more about the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair and a variety of other products, services and support available for pets with special needs, visit us online at HandicappedPets.com.

One Rescuer, Two Dogs and Four Wheels

2011-04-12T13:07:00.004-04:00

HandicappedPets.com understands animal rescuers, and we greatly appreciate the personal sacrifices of time and resources that they make to find homes for pets in need. Recently, we had the honor of assisting animal rescuer Stacey Lawler and her two dogs Maggie Mea and Sweet Pea.

Stacey works with Save a Pet located in Desert Hot Springs, CA. Maggie Mea and Sweet Pea, who are both suffering from rear leg mobility problems, were two dogs that were assisted by Save a Pet prior to being adopted by Stacey herself.

Now that both dogs have started using their Walkin' Wheels, they are also beginning to train as therapy dogs. You can watch a short video clip of Maggie Mea and Sweet Pea's first steps in their Walkin' Wheels by clicking here.

Stacey is thrilled with the progress that Maggie Mea has made and shared this report, "My Maggie Mea, who was barely mobile for many months and had become depressed, is back to her happy self. She is getting more and more acclimated to her wheels. She is starting to get more energy and her front legs are getting stronger everyday. Thank you so VERY much for this wonderful gift of mobility for my girls!"

Sweet Pea is making similar mobility gains with her Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair and recently served as an ambassador at a fundraiser for Save a Pet. Stacey reports that Sweet Pea really enjoyed the attention and is looking forward to making appearances at future fundraisers to support the shelter and show off her Walkin' Wheels!

Wheelchair Dog Dex Achieves First Title

2011-03-09T10:40:00.018-05:00

We have been following Dex's story since his owner and handler Curtiss Lindsay of Lindsay Labs first contacted us about a wheelchair for his 12-week old Labrador Retriever. Dex's rear legs were accidentally crushed by his mother when he was only a week old. Efforts to save Dex's legs failed, and they had to be amputated. Curtiss Lindsay refused to give up on Dex. So, he went in search of a wheelchair that would adjust as his dog grew and be durable enough to accommodate the training of a hunting retriever dog. Curtiss purchased a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair from HandicappedPets.com and has been training his dog Dex for several months.

We recently learned this very exciting news and wanted to share it with you.

(The following update was posted on RetrieverTraining.net)

Introducing SHR Lindsay's Delightful Dexaroni

"We have some very exciting news about Dex: through much hard work, determination, and perseverance Dex has earned the title of Started Hunting Retriever!! It has been a year-long road full of hospital stays and setbacks, but Dex has proven that anything is possible if you only believe. We attended the hunt test sponsored by the West Mississippi HRC this past weekend, and Dex sailed through both days of testing. He is such an inspiration to us. The first water mark of the weekend was by far the longest swim of his life. Dex would not back down from it. He belly flopped into the water and swam his little heart out until he reached the mark. He then turned around and swam back. When his tired body left the water to return the bird to hand, his tail was wagging. He brings us such joy, and we are so proud of him. When Dex was going through his surgeries for the double amputation, we did not know what sort of life he was going to be able to lead. We have done our best at trying to give him as normal of a life as possible. Dex has never slowed down, never given up, never taken no for an answer, and has never accepted anything to be an obstacle. He has taught us a great deal more than we could ever teach him. Dex has beaten the odds, and we just wanted all of his supporters to know that he reached the huge goal of getting his Started title (plus, this gives us proud parents a chance to talk about baby boy!). It has been an honor to be his “people parents” and we love sharing his story."

Watch Dex's land retrieval work below or by visiting this link here.

Watch Dex's water retrieval work below or by visiting this link here.

And after proving himself by land and by sea, Dex gets rewarded with his title ribbons! Watch below or at this link here.

All in a day's work at a job we love! Thank you for reading and sharing Dex's inspiring story of achievement!

Meet the Handicapped Pets of Facebook

2011-03-07T10:33:00.018-05:00

They each have a different story about how they became disabled. Lucy was hit by a car while living in Puerto Rico and was found struggling by the side of the road. Ru Ru had a loving home with a very playful sibling who accidentally paralyzed him while they were playing. Duke suffered a gunshot wound to the spine and was found struggling to swim in the Des Moines River.

Thankfully, all of these pets now have loving homes with caring owners who provide for their special needs and report on their progress through Facebook page updates.

The most recent handicapped pet to begin his own Facebook page is Duke - a mixed breed who was adopted this weekend after spending several weeks in the care of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa and also undergoing surgery and canine rehabilitation at the Iowa State University's Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center. Duke was also outfitted with a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair that was donated by HandicappedPets.com.

Below is a video report on Duke's rescue and recovery as well as the continued efforts to locate information about the person who shot Duke and threw him into the river. There is a $6,500 reward being offered in the case.

You can also access Duke's video here.

To meet all of the handicapped pets on Facebook, become fans and follow their progress, you can visit their individual pages by clicking on their names - Lucy, Ru Ru and Duke.

Rear Wheel Drive Rocky in Romania

2011-01-21T13:48:00.010-05:00

Since the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair is the only fully adjustable cart that folds flat, it is ideal for shipping around the world!

This week, we were thrilled to receive an update from our customer Rocky who lives in Bucharest, Romania. Rocky's owner proudly documented his dog's first steps and posted the photos and commentary for our review and to share with others who may be considering a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair for their canine companion.

Click here or on Rocky's photo below to view the album.

Adjustable Dog Wheelchair Ideal for DM

2011-01-14T10:18:00.036-05:00

Why an Adjustable Dog Cart is the Way to Go in Degenerative Disease
Guest Post Written by Andrea Brin

Faced with the decision to purchase wheels for my Bernese Mountain dog with Degenerative Myelopathy ("DM"), I just assumed I would go with one of the standard custom models that my massage and acupressure clients have used with their dogs. My concern was in getting the right fit. Measurement is often subjective and oftentimes a custom cart needs to be sent back to solve an initial problem or fit.

I recalled a demonstration and video that I saw at the American Holistic Veterinary Association conference in 2009 for Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair. The possibilities seemed endless; it looked like a dream come true for a multitude of reasons. The look of Walkin’ Wheels made them especially appealing to me. They were not imposing or scary looking. They fit in my car in the front passenger seat, and they could be adapted as Chi’s needs changed.

Chi was not yet really ready for wheels - she is a creature of habit and self conscious about her own neurological deficiencies, so we thought we would introduce them slowly before she truly needed them and shape the behavior using a clicker if she was reluctant. Being a Berner, Chi was familiar with carting. She knew what a ‘working dog cart’ was all about. Her younger sister pulled a cart.

Chi was slow to take to her wheels. This was not a surprise because for months we had told her to pick up her foot when walking. She couldn’t pick up her foot in her wheels and so she wouldn’t budge. She is a perfectionist. It is the show dog in her and if she can’t do something right, she is not going to do it at all.

We finally decided to put Chi's rear left leg in the stirrup, so that she did not have to worry about picking it up anymore. Because her right leg was still vibrant and showed no neurological deficits, we permitted her to move with one foot in the stirrup and the other on the ground. Chi mastered this quickly, and was ready to depend on her wheels when the day came.

Fortunately, Chi’s Walkin’ Wheels were adjustable to her unique needs. Due to Chi’s unusual use of her leg, we had to alter the leg rings on the rear harness so that they were uneven. This adjustment of the rear harness resulted in a better fit since the leg that is in the stirrup required more slack on the leg ring to permit hip alignment.

Since that time, we have had to change the height of the cart, the length of the extenders, and contemplate changing the width. We also had to obtain leg rings that were supportive for her and did not damage her beautiful coat, and look for ways to protect Chi’s vulnerable shoulders.

Chi has grown up with an unstable atlas due to a collision she had as a puppy, and we must be careful not to stress her shoulders. We are now looking at supporting them with the versatile belly strap in a more forward position and adaptations made by Walkin’ Wheels to address this innate weakness in Chi’s mobility. A week does not go by without my making some kind of adjustment in the rings, harness etc.

Chi’s disease is degenerative. We see changes monthly at best and weekly at worst. Had we gone with custom rather than an adjustable dog wheelchair, we would not be able to make changes in her set up which permit her to have the best bio-mechanics possible given her underlying disease.

The fact that the cart comes apart, folds flat and is easily adjustable has been vital to her continued use. Recently, we needed to add all terrain tires due to snow and ice conditions. We elected to get new struts as well so we could simply interchange the wheels. When we knocked the frame out of alignment taking a corner too fast and landing on a step, we were able to replace the frame without having the cart go in for repairs.

I don’t know if a custom cart would still fit Chi. The measurements we would have taken initially for Chi are no longer valid. Degenerative Myelopathy takes a heavy toll on a dog’s body. As muscle mass is lost, a dog's measurements change.

With Chi's Walkin’ Wheels, we can accommodate her new more narrow stature by making a simple adjustment. We know that we will need to counter balance the cart at some point and look forward to adaptations made by Walkin’ Wheels to make this possible.

Watching Over Me

2010-12-14T20:58:00.021-05:00

HandicappedPets.com loves to feature a different profile pet of the week on our Facebook fan page. The profile pets are selected from among the many photos submitted by our customers. We ask that the pets be photographed using one of the products that are available at HandicappedPets.com. Many of our photos feature pets in their Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchairs. Occasionally, our customers share these photos as a tribute to a beloved pet who had the chance to use the dog wheelchair at the end of his or her life.

Such was the case this week for our current profile pet of the week - a wonderful Labrador named Guinness who is now playing fetch at Rainbow Bridge.

Guinness' owner Danielle wrote, "Our last few weeks with 'Guinness' were made so much more pleasurable by allowing him some mobility with his 'wheelz'. Getting to see him "run" a few more times was wonderful. Where he is now, no wheels needed .. the big man is running hard and retrieving anything and everything loving folks will toss or shoot for him!... RIP Rhumbline's Guinness is Good, JH 9/17/99 - 11/25/2010"

Danielle's message is so important to us because it is so rewarding to hear how our products give pets a second chance and help them live a longer more comfortable life.

This comment also made us realize that we should invite all of our fans to post a memorial tribute and photo to our Facebook page. We received numerous posts that are currently being added to a memorial photo album that we soon will share.

One of the many tributes was contributed by April Thompson in honor of her beloved Abby who crossed over after a battle with cancer.

April posted this photo and a message that read, "Abby passed away from a cancerous tumor on her face. She was the matron of our pack. I wrote this after sensing her over at our walking area. Hope you enjoy."

Watching over me
By April Thompson

I saw her today,
My girl that had to pass.
I caught a glimpse of her
She caught a glimpse of me.
I saw her standing there
So regal and tall in the grass.
She had been healed by loving hands.
And was as beautiful as could be.
As I stood there watching her
And she stood there watching me.
I walked to where I saw her, and a breeze
Began to blow.
I knelt down and placed my hand on the grass
Where she stood while I was watching her
While she was watching me.
Tears filled my eyes
As many memories filled my mind.
And I wiped a hand across my cheek
To swipe away the tears because I
Wouldn’t want us to cry while I was watching her,
Or while she was watching me.
I now know that she is near me and
That eases my soul.
I will have her with me.
Because I always was watching over her.
Like she is now watching over me.

Walkin Wheels Mini Dog Wheelchair How To

2010-12-10T13:37:00.015-05:00

HandicappedPets.com has proudly shrunk the canine cart - all of the features, convenience and style of the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair is now available for dachshunds and other small dogs weighing approximately 20 pounds or less.

The award winning Walkin' Wheels Mini dog wheelchair is so easy to use, and it only requires one simple measurement of your dog's height to place an order online at HandicappedPets.com!

The Walkin' Wheels Mini Dog Wheelchair How To Video can also be seen here.

The Walkin' Wheels Mini dog wheelchair also features a higher level of adjustment in height that can accommodate longer legged dogs. Changing the Walkin' Wheels Mini from the shorter to the longer leg setting is explained in the following video:

The Walkin Wheels Mini dog wheelchair is available from HandicappedPets.com or you may inquire locally with your nearest pet care professional or retailer and ask if they carry the Walkin' Wheels Mini dog wheelchair.

Throw in Your Towel at Handicapped Pets

2010-12-06T16:57:00.068-05:00

We know that there are creative uses for bath towels when a dog is struggling to walk. Some owners have used the bath towel as a sling to assist their dogs with getting up or even walking. While we understand that a towel does get the job done in a pinch, it can be difficult to keep the right amount of twist in the towel, and it inevitably will begin sliding forward or backward.

We also have seen how a bath towel comes in handy when a dog needs to be transported. If a dog has been injured or is otherwise unable to walk on his or her own, a bath towel can function as a stretcher. Without handles or even a strap to keep the dog in place, a bath towel is certainly not the ideal transportation device. There must be a better way to temporarily assist dogs that are completely immobile or struggling to walk.

One alternative is the Walkin' Lift Rear Harness available from HandicappedPets.com. The Walkin' Lift, originally designed for use with the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair, allows you to aid your dog in walking. The Walkin' Lift also features convenient handles that provide you with a sturdy grip, and the washable neoprene harness offers comfort and a stay in place fit for your dog. Should your canine companion require the use of a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair in the future, the Walkin' Lift is also as a rear harness that easily clips into the frame of the wheelchair.

The Walkin' Stretcher also available from HandicappedPets.com provides a safer and sturdier way to transport an injured or elderly pet. The Walkin' Stretcher has six neoprene handles that ensure a comfortable and balanced transport position. The center retaining strap features an adjustable velcro closure for additional safety.

Now you can throw in your towel at HandicappedPets.com. We want to see photos of you assisting your pet with a bath towel for our bath towel hall of shame. PLEASE NOTE - Photographs of dogs lying on the bath towels on the floor are fine for these purposes. You do not need to photograph your dog while in transport. We will randomly select a few lucky dogs who will receive either a free Walkin' Stretcher or a free Walkin' Lift.

You may submit your photos one of three ways - via e-mail to lisa@handicappedpets.com, via Facebook with a post to the HandicappedPets.com fan page wall, or via Twitter @handicappedpets using hashtag #walkinwheels. Photos must be submitted via e-mail, Facebook or Twitter by no later than 8:00 p.m. Eastern time on Wednesday, December 15, 2010. Hurry and throw in those towels at HandicappedPets.com!

Woo Hoo For Ru Ru and Walkin Wheels

2010-12-03T22:52:00.022-05:00

It's official - Ru Ru has been adopted. He is going home for the holidays in his Walkin Wheels dog wheelchair!

You can also view Ru Ru's video by clicking here.

Beach Boys at Play with Dog Wheelchairs

2010-12-01T11:33:00.027-05:00

We have nicknamed them "our beach boys" - Long John Hunter and Cliffie - two very happy dogs who have been featured so frequently in photos on our Facebook page that we have opted to provide them each with their own albums!

We love receiving and sharing photos of customers in their Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchairs. And we are especially honored to know that dogs are enjoying so many activities in their canine carts that one photo is simply not enough.

Long John Hunter is a rescued Great Dane who is continuing to bring joy to many as a certified therapy dog who visits with patients in the local hospital. Long John Hunter has also made a number of new friends at the Jersey Shore where he enjoys the sand and surf in his Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair!

See Long John Hunter's photo album here.

Cliffie is a Labrador retriever mix who enjoys his beach time a bit further south in sunny Florida! Cliffie loves running and swimming with the many dogs he has encountered at the park and the beach. Cliffie is especially fond of playing fetch and wading into the ocean in his dog wheelchair from sunrise to sunset. He also occasionally goes "off-roading" in his dog wheelchair!

See Cliffie's photo album here.

To learn more about the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair, please visit HandicappedPets.com or call 888-811-PETS.

Ru Ru Dachshund in Walkin Wheels Dog Wheelchair

2010-11-22T12:20:00.015-05:00

We wanted to provide a follow up to our customers and supporters of HandicappedPets.com who have been following the story of Ru Ru - a dachshund in a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair who is searching for a new home.

Currently, Ru Ru is interviewing many potential adopters at the Humane Society Naples.

Below is a video of Ru Ru running and playing in his Walkin' Wheels and meeting with one of several potential adopters who have inquired about him since he first made headlines last week.

The video of Ru Ru in his Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair can also be seen here.

Retired Police Dog Vaik Gets Wheelchair

2010-11-10T22:06:00.026-05:00

HandicappedPets.com recently donated a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair to retired police dog Vaik and his former partner Patrolman Joe Chaplinski of Marlboro, New Jersey.

Mark C. Robinson, President of HandicappedPets.com and inventor of the Walkin' Wheels, presented the wheelchair to Vaik on October 29, 2010.

In addition to sharing this wonderful news report from the Asbury Park Press, we wanted to provide you with a short video of Vaik's first steps in his Walkin' Wheels!

HandicappedPets.com would like to thank Joe and Vaik for their dedicated service. We wish Vaik all the best on his retirement!

Joint Supplements that Got Our Vote

2010-11-02T16:23:00.019-04:00

We admit to being a bit skeptical about just how much joint supplements could aid our aging dogs with arthritis. Some of our own pets at HandicappedPets.com were certainly showing many of the twelve signs of canine arthritis such as slowing down, slow to get up, sleeping more and joint licking.

However, prior to offering joint supplements at HandicappedPets.com, we wanted our own personal proof that they really worked.

So, we decided what better way to find out if these supplements really could improve mobility than to try them out with our own dogs.

One of the first dogs to test drive the GlycanAid HA and Flexerna supplements was Neely, a soon to be 13-year old dog whose owner refuses to admit that this rescued mutt is a day over 2! Despite her owner's denial, it was clear that Neely was displaying the unmistakable signs of arthritis. With great reluctance and much skepticism, Lisa-Marie decided to give GlycanAid HA and Flexerna a try with Neely.

And since seeing is believing, here is an after video of Neely enjoying one of her favorite activities - dock diving into the lake to retrieve a ball!

Do GlycanAid and Flexerna really work? You be the judge.

Six Minutes in a Car and Six Hours in a Cart

2010-09-25T21:25:00.016-04:00

Travis Pastrana beats speed record in an automobile...

Lucy sets speed record in a dog wheelchair...

A Walkin Wheels Dog Wheelchair Family

2010-09-20T13:02:00.041-04:00

A few months ago, Yvonne B. from Poland shared a very touching story and photos of her dog Lori. Lori is a 15-year old German short-haired pointer who relies on the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair for her daily walks in the woods. Yvonne expressed such gratitude for the invention of the Walkin' Wheels and its ability to help her beloved Lori continue her routine of walking 2-3 miles each day. Accompanying Lori and Yvonne on these walks is their best friend Ami - a 20-year old dachshund who is both blind and deaf.

A few weeks ago, Yvonne again contacted HandicappedPets.com to inquire about a wheelchair for Ami because he too was beginning to have difficulty walking.

As a temporary solution to assist Ami with remaining mobile in the short term, Yvonne had devised a "walking machine" using a large pot and a post. By attaching a support sling to Ami's rear legs and connecting it to the post, Yvonne was able to provide him with a means of exercising for a short period of time each day. While this solution provided a temporary fix, it soon became apparent that Ami would not regain his mobility and would also need a wheelchair. Yvonne contacted HandicappedPets.com to inquire about a Walkin' Wheels that would fit a dachshund.

Within days of receiving Yvonne's e-mail in early August, HandicappedPets.com was scheduled to release its all new Walkin' Wheels Mini dog wheelchair to accommodate the mobility needs of small dogs weighing less than 20 pounds. Featuring the same no tools required adjustments in length, width and height, the Walkin' Wheels Mini is the ideal dog wheelchair for small dogs who are suffering from partial or complete rear leg paralysis. One of the first Walkin' Wheels Mini dog wheelchairs to be shipped from HandicappedPets.com was sent immediately to our friend Ami in Poland.

Now, both Lori and her companion Ami are rolling along on their daily walks through the forest thanks to their Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets!

"Thank you for what you did for my beloved friends. You gave them a better life. And I am the happiest person in the world because Ami and Lori are happy now. Thank you!", Yvonne wrote about her family's experience with the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair.

Learn more about Walkin' Wheels and Walkin' Wheels Mini dog wheelchairs.

Dog Wheelchair Summits Mt. Washington

2010-08-18T21:09:00.010-04:00

First ever paralyzed dog in a wheelchair reaches the summit of Mt. Washington. Lucy climbs the Mount Washington Auto Road in her Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets - the pet industry's first and only fully adjustable dog wheelchair that can accommodate different sizes and breeds of dogs.

Courtney Dunning and her dog Lucy are pictured at the summit of Mt. Washington on August 18, 2010. Lucy climbed the 7.6 mile Mount Washington Auto Road in 6 hours and 2 minutes. Lucy is a 4-year old mixed breed that was rescued from the streets of Puerto Rico. Lucy was paralyzed following a collision with a car.

At 11:30 a.m. on August 18, 2010, Lucy became the first ever dog in a wheelchair to summit the highest peak in the Northeast. Congratulations to Lucy and her Walkin' Wheels. Read more...

Canine Carts and Veterinary Rehabilitation

2010-08-11T16:59:00.037-04:00

HandicappedPets.com was honored to be a part of the 6th Symposium of the International Association of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy (IAVRPT) that took place at Auburn University from August 4-7. The IAVRPT is dedicated to the practice, teaching and research of veterinary rehabilitation and physical therapy, furthering scientific investigation and providing better patient care based on sound scientific study.

As exhibitors at the IAVRPT Symposium, we had the opportunity to present the Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets dog wheelchair to veterinarians from around the world who specialize in helping dogs maintain and regain their mobility.

Since it is the pet industry's only canine cart that is fully adjustable in height, length and width, the Walkin' Wheels is the ideal dog wheelchair for veterinarians who specialize in canine rehabilitation and physical therapy. With the Walkin' Wheels cart, a canine rehabilitation specialist can outfit any size dog weighing from 20 up to 150 pounds.

Within a matter of minutes, a client's dog can be up and exercising in a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair. The Walkin' Wheels can be used long-term for dogs that are permanently paralyzed. The Walkin' Wheels is also an ideal canine cart for dogs that are experiencing a temporary loss of mobility as a result of injury, and it can be used to provide mobility during recovery from surgery.

To learn more about the International Association of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy, click here.

A Wheelchair for Puppies and Dogs

2010-07-29T00:19:00.014-04:00

The most revolutionary aspect of the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair is that unlike traditional, custom made dog carts, it is fully adjustable in length, width and height. Naturally, this level of adjustment ensures a perfect fit for any size dog. And dog owners are no longer burdened with complicated measurements and having to wait several days or even several weeks for a custom mobility solution for their best friends.

These technical details certainly provide provide an accurate description of this patented dog wheelchair that is transforming mobility for handicapped pets. In simpler terms, however, perhaps the best way to describe the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair is that it is the only dog wheelchair that fits both puppies and dogs.

Dog wheelchairs are still primarily used later in a dog's life to address conditions of aging or as he or she recovers from an injury or surgical procedure. More often, and especially with the advent of the fully adjustable dog wheelchair, these types of mobility aids are being used to assist a dog throughout its entire lifespan.

Such is the case with a recent customer who visited HandicappedPets.com in search of a mobility solution for his 12-week old Labrador retriever whose rear legs required amputation because the mother dog accidentally crushed the puppy's rear legs shortly after he was born. This dog owner was relieved to learn that there was a fully adjustable dog wheelchair that could accommodate this puppy's growth into adulthood.

This puppy named Dex (pictured here with his mother Paige) is now 5 months old, and he is actively engaged in retriever training in the hopes that he can one day follow in the footsteps of his mother. We look forward to watching Dex on his journey with the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair. He is fast becoming a favorite on You Tube. Be sure to check out one of his training videos here. We look forward to sharing more videos with you as Dex continues to grow with his adjustable dog wheelchair.

New Life for Handicapped Pets on You Tube

2010-06-28T13:54:00.029-04:00

There are so many wonderful videos of handicapped pets on You Tube. We love receiving e-mails or posts on our social networks such as Facebook and Twitter linking us to our customers and their pets who have found a new life with their Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair.

Frequently, the videos are from customers who own an elderly dog that has been a companion for many years. Now that old age and illness have taken a toll on their dog's mobility, the owners have turned to Walkin' Wheels.

Such was the case with Tyler, an 18-year old dog that was suffering from degenerative myelopathy. It was so heartwarming to see Tyler on You Tube proudly walking to the music and tracking treats in his Walkin' Wheels.

Dusty is another one of our customers who suffers from degenerative myelopathy. Dusty is also a video star, and you can see him demonstrating how he continues to get daily exercise in his Walkin' Wheels on You Tube.

Equally amazing and enjoyable to watch is Rudy, a young dog that was rescued from a neglectful situation where his mobility struggles were not being addressed. Rudy and his before and after videos were recently featured in the HandicappedPets.com newsletter. To read about Rudy and see his amazing before and after videos, click here.

We look forward to seeing more of our customers starring on You Tube. If you have already uploaded videos of your dog or you are planning to include his or her video on You Tube, please send us a link via Twitter, Facebook or e-mail lisa@handicappedpets.com

Customers Speak from Heart about Walkin Wheels

2010-05-27T17:23:00.016-04:00

HandicappedPets.com maintains a presence on several social networking sites - you can Like Us on Facebook, Follow Us on Twitter, Subscribe to Us on You Tube. And it is here that we frequently experience the greatest rewards of providing products, services and support for handicapped pets. It is not in what we post, tweet or record but rather in what we get to experience from our customers who tell us and show us how much their pets' lives have changed for the better because one of our products such as the Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets has made a difference.

A few weeks ago, one of our customers Yvonne B. posted very touching photos of her two dogs - Lori and Ami. Lori is a 15-year old German Pointer who now relies on the Walkin' Wheels for her daily walks in the woods. Accompanying Lori on her walks is her best friend and owner Yvonne along with their 20-year old Dachshund named Ami.

Yvonne wrote the following message of gratitude that we would like to share with you to give you hope for your pet's future should he or she ever encounter the need for a Walkin' Wheels.

"I am the most happy person in the world because I could give my 15 y. old Lori (a German Pointer) Walkin' Wheels. And she got her second life. Every day she covers a few km through the forest, she climbs sandy banks ! and she is able to walk very quickly ! She has muscle atrophy and neurological problems of rear legs.... She can't walk on her own. She was very sad girl. But now she wants to live and she is very happy. She lives like a young dog. Thank you Mark C. Robinson for your love to animals"

We hope that you will continue to join us online in our social networks and share in the joy that helping handicapped pets brings to our lives! Our sincere thanks to Yvonne and to all of our customers and supporters who cherish each and every moment that we are able to connect with our animal companions.

Hope Meets Faith at Velma Alma School in Oklahoma

2010-05-21T14:03:00.043-04:00

The idea for a compassion based educational program at Velma-Alma School began back in 2005 when Kathy Barton adopted her own special needs dog Hope who was born deaf and blind. From the very first moment that Hope began interacting with her fourth graders, Kathy realized that she had discovered a powerful teaching tool.

The children were naturally curious and concerned about Hope’s disability and immediately began brainstorming about ways they could reach out to other handicapped pets in need. Ms. Barton and her class posted their offer to provide fundraising assistance on the discussion forum at HandicappedPets.com and began connecting with owners of special needs pets.

Every year since 2005, Kathy Barton has conducted her signature “How do you teach compassion?” humane education program for her fourth grade class at the Velma-Alma School in Velma, Oklahoma. Through a combination of classroom instruction, special projects, interaction with handicapped animals and fundraising efforts, the students learn the importance of accepting differences and protecting and providing for those who cannot speak for themselves.

Over the course of two weeks, the fourth graders devote a portion of each school day to learning ways that people can assist handicapped pets to live healthy, happy lives by providing accommodations such as specialized care and equipment to help them overcome their unique challenges. The students also participate in a variety of hands on learning activities and conduct fundraisers to raise money for pets in need of wheelchairs.

Last year, Kathy Barton refused to let her own battle against breast cancer get in the way of the program. She simply postponed it a few months until she was strong enough to coordinate various activities such as fundraising, assemblies, guest speakers and a first ever pet parade! The 2009 program featured a parade complete with 55 dogs, 3 cats, 1 pony and even a lizard proudly marching in support of demonstrating compassion to one another.

The “How do you teach compassion?” program has become a favorite part of the curriculum and something that the children anticipate the most about being fourth graders at Velma-Alma school.

Recently, preparations for the 2010 program were about to begin when Kathy learned that one of her own students was suffering from bone cancer. So, she gently explained to her students that they would not conduct their annual program so they could focus their fundraising support for fellow student Montana Keenan and his medical care. Velma is a small, rural community of only approximately 700 people, so Kathy understandably did not want her program to compete with efforts to create awareness for Keenan.

Although disappointed, the children understood the need to redirect their energy and immediately began supporting the effort. A number of fellow fourth graders even shaved their heads bald as a show of support for Keenan as he began chemotherapy treatments.

A few days after learning about this new direction from Kathy, HandicappedPets.com happened to receive a call from Jude Stringfellow - owner of Faith the two-legged dog that walks upright on her rear legs like a human being. One of Faith's friends - a Rottweiler named Schautzi needed a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair because she could no longer use her rear legs. HandicappedPets.com was pleased to assist Schautzi with getting back on her feet.

Upon discovering that Jude resided in Oklahoma and then conversing about fellow Oklahoman Kathy Barton, HandicappedPets.com asked if Jude and Faith would make a special visit to the students at Velma-Alma School this year. Despite the very short notice, Jude and Faith agreed that it was meant to be and they would travel to Velma to meet with Kathy, her students and her dog Hope. The program took place on May 20, 2010, and we are so thrilled to be able to share photos from our visit with the wonderful students, faculty and staff at Velma-Alma School. We hope that you will check out our photo album to see more of our visit with Faith and Hope.

Most importantly, we hope that you will consider supporting the efforts of the small town of Velma by making a contribution to assist Montana in his battle against bone cancer. A fund has been set up for Montana at the First National Bank and Trust Company of Ardmore, Oklahoma.

Donations may be made payable and mailed as follows: Becky Keenan FBO Montana Keenan, First National Bank - Ardmore, P.O. Box 69, Ardmore, OK 73402.

To learn more about Kathy Barton and her remarkable students, please see the recent article from Purina’s Rally to Rescue magazine that summarizes how the program began and all that it has accomplished since 2005.

You can also see a short video clip of Faith during our visit.

Dog Wheelchair in Jennifer Lopez Movie Awareness for Handicapped Pets

2010-04-23T16:29:00.027-04:00

As soon as the yard work is finished for the day, and I can put away the pink shovel, I am going to take my dog wheelchair to watch the new Jennifer Lopez movie "The Back Up Plan". I hear that there is a dog in a wheelchair starring right alongside J. Lo - Wow! Now, that will really create awareness for handicapped pets everywhere. I cannot wait to see Nubbins in his dog wheelchair!

Of course, a number of my friends who are also handicapped pets have already appeared in their own film about happy dogs in wheelchairs. I hope you will watch it at www.dogwheelchairmovie.com.

You can also learn more about my dog wheelchair and purchase one for yourself by visiting www.handicappedpets.com. I think you will be really impressed - it is the pet industry's first fully adjustable dog wheelchair. It is called the Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets. It folds flat and easily adjusts without tools to fit any size dog. The Walkin' Wheels is also the ideal dog wheelchair for people who like to travel. My Walkin' Wheels came with a convenient tote bag where I can store it while I am on the road. It was invented by Mark C. Robinson. You can follow the inventor of Walkin' Wheels on his Twitter page.

Annie is First Handicapped Goat to use Walkin Wheels

2010-04-22T15:05:00.017-04:00

Annie is only four months old, but it has been a difficult start to life for the little goat that was abandoned after it was discovered that she suffered from CAE - Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis - a virus that causes both neurological and joint problems.

Julie Sale first met Annie when the goat was only a few days old and struggling to survive the disease that had already claimed her mother and sibling. Some insisted that euthanasia was the only option for the paralyzed goat. Julie, however, saw only potential when she looked at Annie and just could not resist offering the handicapped goat a second chance. So, Annie went home with Julie to be nursed back to health and to begin a long journey toward rehabilitation.

In less than four months, Annie has made terrific progress and deomonstrated that she is stubborn about one thing - learning how to walk! Although primarily used by dogs, the Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets has proven to be the ideal solution for a growing goat like Annie. Walkin' Wheels is the pet industry's only fully adjustable dog wheelchair that can be easily resized without tools to accommodate changes in an animal's length, width and height.

Annie continues to improve and really feels at home with Julie and her other pets. Annie interacts well with the 6 dogs, 6 cats, 40 chickens, 2 ducks and 1 goose that also lovingly call Julie's house their home.

HandicappedPets.com is sharing frequent updates and photos and soon will be posting video of Annie on their Facebook page. Come and join us! Photos of Annie the goat with her canine and feline siblings are unbelievably heartwarming!

Wally D. Writes about Walkin Wheels

2010-03-22T16:48:00.044-04:00

Pictured at left is Wally D., and he likes to write letters. Recently, HandicappedPets.com was honored to be the recipient of one of Wally's letters. With Wally's permission, we are publishing the letter to our blog for everyone to enjoy:

Dear People at HandicappedPets.com:

I do not know the name of the lady to whom this should be addressed, but this is why I am sending you this letter.

On February 22, my pet human called your offices and inquired about a new feature you have for the Walkin' Wheels wheelchair. Last year, he bought me a Walkin' Wheels outfit, and I really like it. In 2003, I had a very bad spinal cord injury and now that I am old, I cannot walk very much. With the Walkin' Wheels, I can visit my favorite trees and even flirt with the girls a little...but not too much since a number of years ago I was taken to a place called "The Vet's Office" where they did something that affected my masculinity, but I don't want to talk about that. But anyway, my pet human saw that you now have a new part for the Walkin' Wheels called "leg rings". He thought these would be good for me so he called your office to order them. My Walkin' Wheels didn't come equipped with them. It had the rear harness instead.

The nice lady who handled his call sent us a set of the new leg rings and did not even charge us for them. That was very nice. Also, I like them a whole lot!

My Walkin' Wheels are sure fun. I didn't have much fun in the first part of my life. I lived with some mean people who dumped me out in the country in the middle of the winter with no food and wearing only a piece of chain with a bolt through it for a collar. My hip was injured. One very cold day, my pet human found me near death in a roadside ditch with my wet, dirty hair frozen to the ground.

He took me home and got me warm and some food, and when I got better, I got a haircut. I thought you might like to see my "before and after" pictures. I look a bit embarrassed in my "after" picture because I was so skinny at the time. Well, I really like my new home and pet people. But unfortunately, one day, I was running through our family room when my rear legs slipped and my back twisted and my back broke. Then I had to get a big operation that helped me walk and shuffle along for quite a while, but now I can't do much and my pet people have to carry me a lot.

However, with my Walkin' Wheels, I can do a lot including playing with my step brother Ernie, a goofy Labrador Retriever. I am sending you a picture of me in my Walkin' Wheels while on a camping trip in Indiana. I can really zip down hills.

Well, I guess I will stop now and take a nap by the fireplace. Writing makes me tired, and my pet human complains that I slobber in the keyboard.

Thank you very much.

Best wishes.

Wally D.

MJ the Paralyzed Puppy Making Great Strides with Walkin' Wheels and Physical Therapy

2010-03-17T14:24:00.039-04:00

We have been following MJ's progress since September 2009 when we first learned that there was an abandoned 7-month old German shepherd puppy in the Los Angeles area in need of a dog wheelchair that would help her walk and accommodate her growing needs.

HandicappedPets.com had just the right solution available to assist a growing puppy – a fully adjustable Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair, and there was one already located in California waiting to be donated to a dog in need.

More than five years ago, HandicappedPets.com began working closely with Kathy Barton, a fourth grade teacher in Velma, Oklahoma who was teaching lessons with her handicapped dog Hope in the classroom. Hope proved to be a wonderful assistant with teaching the children about the importance of compassion and accepting differences in both animals and people. The “How do you teach compassion?” program that Ms. Barton and her students created is now an annual part of the fourth grade curriculum at Velma-Alma Elementary School and is available as a resource to other educators. Part of the program each year involves a fundraising drive to purchase wheelchairs for pets in need.

In 2009, one of the pets that received a wheelchair thanks to the fundraising efforts of these children was a three-legged dog named Sierra who lived in California. Sierra was so happy to receive her Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair, and she enjoyed being able to venture outside again to playfully chase the neighbor’s cat from her yard. Unfortunately, just a few short weeks after receiving her Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair, Sierra’s health declined rapidly, and she passed away suddenly.

Sierra’s owner Melody wanted her Walkin’ Wheels to be donated to another dog in need especially since the children had worked so hard to raise the money to purchase it. HandicappedPets.com assured Melody that we would seek out another special dog and coordinate transferring Sierra’ s Walkin’ Wheels.

As soon as we read MJ’s story, saw her pictures and realized that she too resided in California, we knew that we had found the perfect dog for Sierra’s wheelchair. Since the Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair is fully adjustable in length, width and height, it can be easily re-sized to accommodate a growing puppy like MJ.

It has been a long road for MJ thus far. Shortly after her rehabilitation began in October 2009, she was diagnosed with distemper and had to spend the next three months in isolation prior to resuming her rehabilitation. Lately, MJ has begun making great strides and is using her Walkin' Wheels as a therapy tool to help regain her mobility!

Click here to view a video of MJ using her Walkin' Wheels, and be sure to stay tuned for more updates from Dr. Heather Oxford who is treating MJ at California Animal Rehabilitation (CARE) and reporting on her progress on the blog L.A. Unleashed.

On behalf of Kathy Barton and her wonderful students, Sierra, Melody and our community of caretakers at HandicappedPets.com, we hope that MJ will live a long, happy, healthy life and continue to make progress in her Walkin' Wheels. We are extremely grateful to the Jason Heigl Foundation for their support of MJ and her rescue effort and for providing her with the appropriate veterinary and rehabilitative care to ensure that she finds the perfect forever home.

Paralyzed Puppy Lola Will Grow with Adjustable Walkin' Wheels Dog Wheelchair

2010-03-03T10:17:00.032-05:00

Lola is only 13 weeks old, and she is already in her third homemade dog wheelchair that is pictured at left. Paralyzed at only a few weeks of age, Lola likely will grow to be approximately 50 - 60 pounds.

She needed a wheelchair that could be adjusted to accommodate her growth from a puppy to a full grown dog. Had Lola been fitted with a series of custom dog wheelchairs, she would have required a total of eight carts to be made for her!

Now, thanks to the generous support of donors to Paws with Pride and with assistance from HandicappedPets.com, Lola will be receiving a Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets - the pet industry's only fully adjustable dog wheelchair. The Walkin' Wheels features a patented design that easily adjusts in length, width and height without tools, and it folds flat for convenient travel with your canine companion.

The Walkin' Wheels recently appeared on Animal Planet's Underdog to Wonderdog where a 12-week old puppy named Faith needed an adjustable dog wheelchair to accommodate both her paralysis and growth.

Lola's story was recently featured in a newscast on NBC Channel 4 in Columbus, Ohio. We look forward to seeing Lola in her Walkin' Wheels and to following her progress.

Paying it Forward with Walkin Wheels for Scooter

2010-02-09T12:14:00.030-05:00

This is Scooter. He is currently available for adoption from the Second Chance Animal Rescue in Puerto Rico. The rescue is known on the island as the one that will go the extra mile for dogs that are struggling with a disability and having a more difficult time being placed in a permanent home.

Second Chance does not immediately consider euthanasia as the only solution for handicapped pets. Rather, they see physically challenged dogs as having overcome significant odds with a spirit and determination that are deserving of a second chance. They also believe that it is worth the wait for those special people to come along who are willing to look past a dog's handicap to his or her personality and soul and to imagine the possibilities. The shelter frequently has several handicapped pets in need of homes.

And for dogs like Scooter, the wait for a permanent home can seem endless especially since all he wants to do is to snuggle up and be loved. Scooter's eyes are always full of hope and he even does a little dance when he knows that he is next in line for kisses and hugs.

Second Chance is the same rescue that saved HandicappedPets.com's mascot Lucy from the side of the road when she was only five months old. Lucy was brought to New Hampshire and adopted by Courtney Dunning. Lucy also received a new Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair from HandicappedPets.com.

Courtney's mother Wendy was so grateful for Lucy's donated Walkin' Wheels that she when learned there was another dog in need at the Second Chance Animal Rescue in Puerto Rico, she decided to pay it forward and purchased a Walkin' Wheels for Scooter.

Second Chance has lost count of the number of wheelchair rescues that they have assisted because so many of the dogs in Puerto Rico have suffered paralysis or lost limbs to motor vehicle accidents. However, the one number that the rescue can remember is zero - the number of wheelchair rescues that have been unable to find a permanent home.

Wonderdog Faith in her Walkin' Wheels on Animal Planet

2010-02-01T13:54:00.043-05:00

The Walkin' Wheels team at HandicappedPets.com would like to commend the wonder team of Animal Planet's Underdog to Wonderdog for their efforts in transforming Faith. We have received countless positive responses to the program that aired this past Saturday, January 30th on Animal Planet.

Faith, a 12-week old Rottweiler/shepherd puppy that was recently abandoned at the Animal Center of Queens (ACQ), now has a loving family to call her own and is able to run and play like any other dog. We would like to acknowledge Lori Carpino and her team at the ACQ for taking the initiative to locate assistance for Faith's disability. All too often, people conclude that euthanasia is the only option for dogs like Faith who are experiencing mobility problems as a result of birth defects, injury or advanced age.

Faith is mobile thanks to her Walkin Wheels for Handicapped Pets - a revolutionary dog wheelchair that is fully adjustable in length, width and height to accommodate any size dog weighing from twenty to one-hundred fifty pounds. Since the Walkin' Wheels requires only one simple measurement of a dog's height, it can be ordered online at http://www.handicappedpets.com/ or by telephone at (888) 811-PETS, and it is available for next day delivery.

To see additional photos of Faith, to applaud other wonderdogs in their Walkin' Wheels and to learn more about caring for special needs pets, please become a fan of HandicappedPets.com on Facebook.

Help from the Americans for a Dog Named Venus

2010-01-14T12:01:00.047-05:00

Venus was hit by a car over 2 years ago. Surgery to correct her paralysis was unsuccessful. Upon realizing that she could no longer walk, her owners abandoned her with a veterinarian. The veterinarian contacted Eugenia - a local woman who single handedly assists the stray dogs of Romania because there are not many people who would otherwise provide care or contribute funding for them.

Eugenia has made it her mission to assist these animals. She has personally provided for the sterilization, medical care and adoption assistance of over 1,300 strays in Romania. Eugenia has also been actively involved in legislative efforts to prevent the euthanasia of healthy, stray dogs. Her efforts are comprehensively aimed at addressing the current problem of pet overpopulation while also seeking ways to prevent so many animals from becoming homeless in the first place.

Venus is one of several animals that Eugenia personally provides care for despite the limitations of her small pension and her physical disabilities. In her application to the Handicapped Pets Foundation, Eugenia explained that she really wanted to have a dog wheelchair so that Venus could once again experience the outside world without risking further injury brought on by dragging her rear legs. With limited financial and physical resources, the Handicapped Pets Foundation was her only hope to assist Venus.

The generous supporters of the Handicapped Pets Foundation responded and immediately contributed funding to Venus' appeal. Upon learning that Venus would be receiving a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair from the Handicapped Pets Foundation, Eugenia was overwhelmed with gratitude and wrote the following reply:

"I remember that my father, who died in 1989, told me that he spent all his life with his eyes staring at the sky and waiting for the Americans to come. Nowadays, the situation has changed. We no longer need the Americans to free us from the communist regime. Venus has been staring at the sky for 2 years waiting for aid. It came from the Americans. My father, who was fond of animals, would be very proud of you. Love, Eugenia and Venus"

Thank you for your support of the Handicapped Pets Foundation and for making a difference in the lives of handicapped animals throughout the world!

Rosie the Deer Dashes through the Holidays in a Walkin' Wheels Dog Wheelchair

2009-12-17T15:08:00.035-05:00

When a custom wheelchair just won't adjust to changing needs, what is a growing deer to do?

This was Rosie the deer's dilemma as she underwent rehabilitation for an injury that she sustained when she was just a day old. Rosie, now nearly six months old, was just a newborn when a dog playing in his yard mistook her for a chew toy and severely injured her rear legs.

Rosie has been receiving physical therapy and acupuncture to assist in her recovery. Her legs which were once completely paralyzed are now gaining strength and movement. Rosie had been using an old custom made dog wheelchair to get around for the first few months, but she was quickly outgrowing it.

Her caretakers contacted HandicappedPets.com to inquire about their fully adjustable dog wheelchair - the Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets. The company was pleased to offer a discounted Walkin' Wheels professional kit to help grant Rosie's holiday wish for a wheelchair that would grow with her! Complete with a one size fits all wheelchair frame that adjusts in height, length and width and five sets of different sized wheels, Rosie is now ready to roll on through her rehabilitation.

Rosie has developed quite an online presence that is complete with updated stories, photos and videos of her progress. Supporters are welcome to visit Rosie on her website (click on Rosie's photo from the homepage) or join her group (Rosie the Deer) on Facebook where they may follow along on her journey and make a contribution to support her medical care.

On behalf of Rosie, her caretakers at Los Robles Animal Hospital and everyone at HandicappedPets.com, best wishes for the holidays and throughout the New Year! Thank you for your caring support!

Retired Guide Dog Needs Wheelchair

2009-11-25T21:06:00.012-05:00

Eve, who is almost 80 years old, has raised 26 puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind over the course of her volunteer career. Recently, one of the puppies that Eve raised - a beautiful German shepherd named Dot - had to retire after successfully serving as a guide dog for over 7 years. Eve did not hesitate to adopt Dot and offer her a comfortable retirement.

Dot was forced into early retirement because of her rear leg paralysis. She is in desperate need of a dog wheelchair that will significantly improve the quality of her retirement years. Dot currently drags herself around to play in the yard with the other dogs. Eve is struggling to support Dot's rear legs on brief walks. To watch a brief video of Dot, click here.

Please consider making a donation to support the Handicapped Pets Foundation in providing a wheelchair for Dot. A very generous donor has agreed to match dollar for dollar the first $200 contributed towards Dot's new wheels! Make your contribution count twice!

You may make a contribution online or you may mail a check to Handicapped Pets Foundation, 14 Veterans Road, #22, Amherst, NH 03031. Please reference "Dot" in the purpose line of the online form and in all correspondence by mail. Thank you in advance for your support of Dot and the Handicapped Pets Foundation.

Handicapped Pets Foundation Challenge

2009-11-02T15:23:00.017-05:00

The Handicapped Pets Foundation has received a very generous challenge. An anonymous donor has agreed to match dollar for dollar the first $200.00 (two hundred dollars) contributed to each of the pets in need currently listed on its website at http://www.hpets.org/. This supporter is a fellow animal lover who cares deeply for pets and the people who love them. She has issued this challenge in an effort to get more pets back on their feet as quickly as possible.

Your support will directly benefit a dog like Wishbone who is pictured above. Wishbone was surrendered to an animal shelter as a puppy along with his littermates. He was the last one to be adopted because he was missing his rear feet.

Please make your donation count twice by making a contribution to Venus, Wishbone, Shadow, Trax, Jenna or Seri. You may designate your contribution on the online donation form by indicating the pet's name in the purpose line. Thank you in advance for your support!

Donations received in the name of a particular pet will be directed to him or her until the level of support required to fully sponsor that animal is reached. Should donations beyond the level of support required to sponsor a particular pet be received in his or her name, those contributions will be directed to others that have been approved into the program. The Foundation makes every attempt to remove a pet in need from this listing as soon as the level of support required is reached.

Sharing a Message from Underdog to Wonder Dog

2009-10-21T13:26:00.010-04:00

Are you thinking about adopting a dog?

Do you want to rescue, but are unsure about the training, the grooming and the other unknowns?

A prominent cable television show is now casting in New York City and the surrounding Tri-state area.

They are currently looking for someone who wants to rescue a special needs dog that needs special treatment from a loving and caring family. If you or a friend are interested in this opportunity please e-mail me your story to joep@sharpentertainment.com

2009 HandicappedPets.com Online Halloween Photo Contest

2009-10-18T19:05:00.048-04:00

Get your costumes and cameras ready! It's time for the HandicappedPets.com 2009 Online Halloween Pet Photo Contest.

Your pet does not need to be handicapped to enter our photo contest - all pets are welcome.

Our community of supporters at HandicappedPets.com are encouraged to join us by uploading a favorite photo of their pet dressed in his or her Halloween best.

A panel of judges will review all entries received and select one pet photo that is deemed "Best Overall".

The winner will receive a $50.00 (fifty dollars) gift certificate from HandicappedPets.com that can be used towards the purchase of any item available for sale on the HandicappedPets.com website. The "Best Overall" winner will also receive a second identical $50.00 (fifty dollars) HandicappedPets.com gift certificate that will be awarded to a non-profit animal organization of his or her choice. The animal organization must be a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

Photos must be uploaded online at the following link. Entries will not be accepted via e-mail or by any other means. Only photos uploaded prior to 5:00 p.m. EST on November 4, 2009 will be eligible for the contest.

All photos uploaded into the 2009 HandicappedPets.com album are also eligible to receive online votes from viewers. The panel of judges will consider the number of online votes that each photo receives when making its decision of best overall. The online vote tally will count 25% towards the judges' overall decision, so please share your pet's photo link with family and friends, and encourage them to vote for their favorite!

By registering and uploading a photo to the 2009 HandicappedPets.com Halloween photo album, contestants agree to allow HandicappedPets.com to publish their pet's photo online for public viewing and voting.

If selected as the "Best Overall" winner, contestant must also agree to allow HandicappedPets.com to publish their pet's name and photo on its website.

Pet photos only, please. Photos containing human subjects will not be considered for judging and will be removed from the online album.

The winning photo will be announced at the HandicappedPets.com website on November 7, 2009. Happy Halloween!

Miracle Gets Her Miraculous Walkin' Wheels!

2009-10-16T21:49:00.037-04:00

The Handicapped Pets Foundation is thrilled to share the first photo of Miracle in her Walkin' Wheels!

We also wanted to pass along a message of gratitude from Miracle's family to everyone who supported her fundraising effort through donations and sharing her story.

"We have received Miracle's Walkin' Wheels! Attached is a photo of her very first time with her new freedom! As I write this, she has now been in her chair 4 times and is starting to explore the house. She is fighting a battle with herself not to bunny hop, but she has reverse down pat," Miracle's family wrote about her first day.

"We never would have been able to do this without the wonderful help from the Handicapped Pets Foundation and the wonderful people who gave so Miracle could walk again. What a blessing. I will send more photos in the coming weeks. Well, as soon as the rain lets up and we can walk not swim outside. Thank you again everyone for your support."

While Miracle is still adjusting to her new found mobility, HandicappedPets.com's wheelchair manager Nancy has advised her family to provide a little more rear support by re-positioning her leg ring harness so that it is flush with the Walkin' Wheels frame. The correct position of the rear harness will give Miracle better support and greater comfort.

To see a before photo and story, visit Miracle's page at the Handicapped Pets Foundation website by clicking here. Thank you to everyone who contributed to Miracle. We will continue to share updates, and we look forward to receiving and sharing reports from Loki, Miles, Tiki and Toot.

More approved pets in need will be posted soon at http://www.hpets.org/. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of handicapped pets!

Emma Gets Her Walkin' Wheels and Earns Her Therapy Dog Vest

2009-10-12T11:40:00.055-04:00

We love to receive updates from our customers at HandicappedPets.com telling us about all of the wonderful adventures that their dogs are having in their Walkin' Wheels.

Last week, we received a very special report from Linda McKeighen who resides in Florida with Emma - a 13-year old Boxer. Linda reports that Emma is using her Walkin' Wheels not only to help her walk but also to make a difference in the lives of others.

As the newest member of the therapy dog group Canines for Christ, Emma recently had her first visit with disabled children, and she is also planning to complete the application process to become an approved visitor at the local VA hospital.

Emma proved to be a very energetic and capable therapy dog.

"She was very gentle and everyone loved her...it was an amazing two hours that brought a lot of smiles and happiness," said Linda.

If you have a Walkin' Wheels adventure that you would like to share with us, please send your story and photo to lisa@handicappedpets.com We look forward to hearing from you.

To see the stories of Lucy, Nina and Denali and learn about the invention of the Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets, visit our movie website at http://www.dogwheelchairmovie.com/

A shared post from the Jason Heigl Foundation

2009-10-10T07:25:00.014-04:00

A shared post by the Jason Heigl Foundation ~

MJ, the beautiful paralyzed puppy, was rescued from South LA. She is seven months old and was hit by a car. She has a fractured spine and cannot use her rear legs. Her people did not take her to the vet and let her suffer for two weeks before dumping her at the shelter.

MJ was named after Nancy Heigl's mother, Margaret, and son, Jason, who passed away in the same week in different years. On the anniversary of both of Margaret & Jason's passing we rescued MJ. She represents the Heigl love and spirit.

MJ received a donated wheelchair thanks to http://www.handicappedpets.com/. With the wheelchair and intense physical rehab there is a good chance that she will be able to be a spinal walker. This means she might be able to walk again but her body won't know it.

She doesn't have control of her bladder/bowels but is NOT in pain at all. This little girl is SOOO happy, an absolute angel and deserves to be surrounded by love.

THANKS TO THE WONDERFUL EFFORTS OF COMPASSIONATE CHILDREN WE'VE RECEIVED A WHEELCHAIR FOR MJ!! Please read MJ's story written by Handicappedpets.com.

A wheelchair for MJ – a gift from Sierra and the compassionate efforts of children.

MJ’s plea for help arrived in a forwarded e-mail message indicating that there was a paralyzed, 7-month old German shepherd puppy in need of a foster home. We frequently assist in these efforts by referring rescue groups to the HandicappedPets.com help and advice forum where they can connect with thousands of caretakers of special needs pets.

From this message, we learned that MJ had been hit by a car and suffered a spinal injury. For more than two weeks, her owners did not seek veterinary care and ultimately abandoned MJ at an animal shelter in the Los Angeles area. The shelter called the Jason Heigl Foundation immediately. Unfortunately, it was too late for surgery to assist with regaining her mobility. Had her previous owners sought immediate veterinary assistance, MJ’s prognosis likely would have been different.

Instead, this precious little girl needed a wheelchair to get her walking again. HandicappedPets.com had just the right solution available to assist a growing puppy – a fully adjustable Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair, and there was one already located in California waiting to be donated to a dog in need.More than five years ago, HandicappedPets.com began working closely with Kathy Barton, a fourth grade teacher in Velma, Oklahoma who was teaching lessons with her handicapped dog Hope in the classroom. Hope proved to be a wonderful assistant with teaching the children about the importance of compassion and accepting differences in both animals and people. The “How do you teach compassion?” program that Ms. Barton and her students created is now an annual part of the fourth grade curriculum at Velma-Alma Elementary School and is available as a resource to other educators. Part of the program each year involves a fundraising drive to purchase wheelchairs for pets in need.In 2009, one of the pets that received a wheelchair thanks to the fundraising efforts of these children was a three-legged dog named Sierra who lived in California. Sierra was so happy to receive her Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair, and she enjoyed being able to venture outside again to playfully chase the neighbor’s cat from her yard. Unfortunately, just a few short weeks after receiving her Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair, Sierra’s health declined rapidly, and she passed away suddenly. Sierra’s owner Melody wanted her Walkin’ Wheels to be donated to another dog in need especially since the children had worked so hard to raise the money to purchase it. HandicappedPets.com assured Melody that we would seek out another special dog and coordinate transferring Sierra’ s Walkin’ Wheels.

As soon as we read MJ’s story, saw her pictures and realized that she too resided in California, we knew that we had found the perfect dog for Sierra’s wheelchair. Since the Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair is fully adjustable in length, width and height, it can be easily re-sized to accommodate a growing puppy like MJ.

On behalf of Kathy Barton and her wonderful students, Sierra, Melody and our community of caretakers at HandicappedPets.com, we hope that MJ will live a long, happy, healthy life in her Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair. We are extremely grateful to the Jason Heigl Foundation for their support of MJ and her rescue effort and for providing her with the appropriate veterinary and rehabilitative care to ensure that she finds the perfect forever home.

Contact INFO@JasonHeiglFoundation.org if you can foster or adopt this sweet baby.

Photos & video of MJ in her wheelchair coming soon!!!!!!Watch MJ's video prior to rehab and wheelchair:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UG6fZeADtSk

Location: Southern CA

Handicapped Pets Wants to Help Loki Get Back on His Feet

2009-10-07T10:18:00.004-04:00

Loki is a 9-year old German shepherd that is suffering from intermittent rear leg paralysis which is progressively worsening. He is in need of a dog wheelchair so that he can resume his normal life and continue enjoying long walks and playing with other dogs in the park.

Loki's owner has been facing some financial difficulties lately and was recently unemployed for over a year. Loki is a very special companion and a cherished member of this family. Loki was adopted in 2003 after his previous owner, who was a relative of his current family, passed away.

Despite their financial struggles, Loki's family will be contributing fifty dollars ($50.00) towards the cost of his wheelchair and would be extremely grateful for additional assistance from supporters of the Handicapped Pets Foundation.

Please make a contribution in support of Loki - the first $200.00 contributed towards Loki will be matched dollar for dollar in an effort to get him walking as soon as possible. Make your donation count twice and help Loki get a wheelchair!

To make a contribution in support of Loki, please click here. You may reference "Loki" in the purpose line of the form to designate your contribution specifically towards a dog wheelchair for Loki. If you would prefer to make a contribution by mail, please send a check made payable to Handicapped Pets Foundation, 14 Veterans Road, #22, Amherst, NH 03031.

Thank you in advance for your support!

Handicapped Pets Shares the ASPCA's Halloween Safety Tips

2009-10-03T11:54:00.004-04:00

No Scaredy Cats This Halloween: Top 10 Safety Tips for Pet Parents

Attention, companion animal caretakers!

The ASPCA would like to point out these common-sense cautions that’ll help keep your pets safe and stress-free this time of year. If you do suspect your pet has ingested a potentially dangerous substance, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

1. No tricks, no treats: That bowlful of candy is for trick-or-treaters, not for Scruffy and Fluffy.

Chocolate in all forms—especially dark or baking chocolate—can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. Symptoms of significant chocolate ingestion may include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, increased thirst, urination and heart rate—and even seizures.

Candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can be poisonous to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol sweetener can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, which leads to depression, lack of coordination and seizures. In cases of significantly low blood sugar, liver failure has been known to occur.

Ingesting tin foil and cellophane candy wrappers can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage.

2. Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, yet they can produce gastrointestinal upset should pets ingest them. Intestinal blockage could even occur if large pieces are swallowed.

3. Keep wires and cords from electric lights and other decorations out of reach of your pets. If chewed, your pet could experience damage to his mouth from shards of glass or plastic, or receive a possibly life-threatening electrical shock.

4. A carved pumpkin certainly is festive, but do exercise extreme caution if you choose to add a candle. Pets can easily knock a lit pumpkin over and cause a fire. Curious kittens especially run the risk of getting burned or singed by candle flames.

5. Dress-up can be a big mess-up for some pets. Please don't put your dog or cat in a costume UNLESS you know he or she loves it (yup, a few pets are real hams!). For pets who prefer their “birthday suits,” however, wearing a costume can cause undue stress.

6. If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume isn't annoying or unsafe. It should not constrict the animal's movement or hearing, or impede his ability to breathe, bark or meow. Also try on costumes before the big night. If your pet seems distressed, allergic or shows abnormal behavior, consider letting him go au naturel or donning a festive bandana.

7. Take a closer look at your pet’s costume and make sure it does not have small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that he could choke on. Also, ill-fitting outfits can get twisted on external objects or your pet, leading to injury.

8. All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treat visiting hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets.

9. When opening the door for trick-or-treaters, take care that your cat or dog doesn't dart outside.

10. IDs, please! Always make sure your dog or cat has proper identification. If for any reason your pet escapes and become lost, a collar and tags and/or a microchip can increase the chances that he or she will be returned

Thank you to the ASPCA for putting together these terrific Halloween tips! Remember to check out Handicappedpets.com for all your handicapped and senior pet's needs!

Dog Wheelchair Review ~ How do I Choose the Right Dog Wheelchair?

2009-10-02T19:34:00.003-04:00

Dog wheelchairs, also called dog "carts" are used by dogs who have had some type of injury or disease process affect their ability to use their hind end. Don't worry though, you don't have to push your dog in the wheelchair, like you would a person.

Most dog wheelchairs are designed so the dog can use its front legs to walk, while its hind end end is supported. Dogs acclimate surprisingly well to the cart and can maintain muscle tone -- get a lot of needed exercise.

There are also dog wheelchairs available for dogs with front leg amputations or diseases that effect the chest or front legs of a dog. There are even four-wheel dog carts for pets that are parapalegic.

In the past, otherwise healthy dogs suffering from diseases like degenerative myelopathy, (DM), neuromuscular disease, fibrocartilagenous embolism (FCE) osteoarthitis, hip displasia, cancer, severe muscle or back injuries, spondylosis, lumbosacral disease and balance disorders have had to be needlessly euthanized. Dogs that were recovering from arthrodesis (joint fusion surgery), joint replacements, fractures, cruciate (ACL) injuries, amputations, patellar luxations needlessly suffered.

Many dogs spent a great deal more time in the healing process, sometimes never really healing completely because it was so difficult to keep the dog from being active. There are a number of different brands of dog wheel chairs, also called dog carts and canine carts (K9 Carts), you can find on the internet for handicapped pets. Top sites include HandicappedPets, WalkinWheels, DogKarts, and several others.

Until recently, your dog had to be custom fitted to the wheelchair, a lengthy and exacting process. The dog’s owner needed to take up to 13 exact measurements and wait two to three weeks for the wheelchair to arrive.

Once the wheelchair arrived, sometimes it didn't fit and would need to be returned to the manufacturer. In the meantime, the handicapped or injured dog who needed the wheelchair to begin with was experiencing a very poor quality of life. These custom carts, the only kind available until now certainly served a purpose, but they were cumbersome, couldn't be easily put in an automobile (most didn't fit in the back seat or even the trunk of a car) and of course, were difficult to resell. If the dog's size changed, the cart had to be sent back to the manufacturer to be refitted. Plus, they were not very attractive!

The Gold Standard of dog wheelchairs is Walkin Wheels. Released in 2008, Walkin Wheels is a unique, patented dog wheelchair invented by dog lover Mark Robinson, founder of the Handicapped Pets Website and the recently formed Handicapped Pets Foundation. The cart is loaded with innovative features, including portability, adjustability, ease of use, light weight, and yes, good looks!

The Walkin' Wheels dog cart was designed with both the dog's comfort and the owner's convenience in mind. A Walkin' Wheels dog cart can be easily ordered online. Tedious measurement of your dog is not necessary, the online "Cart Wizard" takes care of the details after one approximate measurement. The cart can be adjusted, without tools, to fit your dog or any other dog. It's lightweight, folds flat with the twist of a knob and is shipped next day.

No wonder there is a dog cart revolution! So don't lose hope - pets that might otherwise suffer or even be put to sleep can have a new lease on life! Dogs in wheelchairs can not only walk again, they can run, play fetch, and even swim! Unlike the other dog carts on the market, the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair company has a decent return policy, and the resell value is very high. So if your dog has trouble with his back legs, consider the Walkin Wheels dog wheelchair to help him enjoy life again!
posted by Mark C. Robinson @ 4:01 PM

Teaching an Old Dog, New Wheels - Walkin' Wheels

2009-10-01T17:43:00.002-04:00

By: Mark C.

Throughout the summer, the normally exuberant, but elderly German Shepherd dog, Butch, appeared to be dragging his toes on his right hind leg. Concerned, owner Carol Sweet kept her eye on it, and, sure enough, over the next few days his hind end appeared to be weakening.

Butch and Carol were an item in the nearby town of Watson Falls. They went everywhere together, the beach, the post office, we even walked down to the local diner a few times each week in the summertime for breakfast on the patio. But his favorite, paws-down, was the beach. Chasing seagulls, barking at the waves, and digging, oh the digging!

Carol researched hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy in pets, but had decided it was probably a simple muscle or back injury, possibly osteoarthritis. She had also seen, in her searches, the adjustable Walkinâ€™ Wheels dog wheelchair for Handicapped Pets, although she never ever imagines she would need a dog wheelchair. She consulted over the phone with our veterinarian. She agreed that the right course of action, for now, was simple observation, as well as supplementation with glucosamine chondroitin for dogs.

The weakening, however, continued.

Soon, Butch couldn't really pull his hind legs underneath him. He wobbled on his hind legs, and he began to appear unbalanced. It was getting hard for him to just be a dog. They were still going to the beach, and the post office, but they no longer walked downtown, as he just couldn't walk that far anymore. It was starting to become difficult to get Butch to get into the truck - it was just too high up for him, and Carol had trouble getting his hind end up and in. He had lost weight - from 95 to 75 pounds, but he was still too heavy for Carol to lift in by herself.

It was obvious Butch wasn't suffering from a simple muscle pull, or even a back injury. Carol came to the very sad realization that even though Butch appeared healthy in every other way - eating, drinking, even asking for his treats, his quality of life had gone precipitously downhill. He was basically a disabled dog.

Butch's demeanor had also dramatically changed. After more testing, the veterinarian diagnosed degenerative myelopathy. Butch was a handicapped dog. They veterinarian explained that the disease was degenerative -- Butch would not be getting better. Sadly, she said, many dogs were put to sleep at this point.
"NO!" Said Carol, as she looked at the life in Butchâ€™s eyes. "This is a happy, healthy dog that simply canâ€™t walk. She went back to her research notes and found the link to HandicappedPets.com and the Walkinâ€™ Wheels dog wheelchair for Handicapped Pets.

The Walkin' Wheels is designed especially for dogs that had trouble with their hind ends. Not a Wheelchair in the traditional sense -- the dog doesnâ€™t sit in it and get pushed around -- the lightweight aluminum device replaces the functionality of the dogâ€™s back legs with wheels. The pet moves around; runs and plays in fact, propelling himself with his still-strong front legs.
Carol was skeptical. She had been using a lift to help Butch get around in the house and when he needed to go to the bathroom. She had seen several of the other K9 carts for handicapped or disabled dogs, and they seemed cumbersome and klunky. Walkinâ€™ Wheels was different. The website was very informative, with videos on fitting the cart and helpful and wonderful forums filled with other folks with dogs (and other animals) that were using these wheelchairs. The pet wheelchairs seemed to help so much with their mobility. And the dogs looked happy! Carol was most intrigued with the fact that the Walkin' Wheels dog cart was designed to fold up and be packed into a vehicle, and it was actually adjustable! Suddenly it seemed possible that Butch could chase those pesky seagulls again, even walk downtown?

Carol ordered the pet wheelchair and it arrived the next day. She fitted the adjustable cart to him using the video on the Handicapped Pets website. Butch, who wasn't too sure in the beginning what his mom was asking him to do, needed a little coaxing with treats but as soon as he discovered he could walk again though, it was amazing. Butch very quickly learned how to get around with the wheelchair, and it really seemed as if he enjoyed using it. It was small enough to fit easily in the house, as well as rugged enough for the great outdoors.
"My sweet dog started barking at squirrels again, and yes, chasing the seagulls on the beach and digging in the sand!"

Butch is quite the celebrity now at the local diner - they walk the mile or so downtown now with no problems and sit with friends and enjoy the sunshine. It's hard to miss the big black happy German Shepherd and his bright blue dog wheelchair!

The only ones not too pleased are the seagulls...

Author Resource:-> HandicappedPets.com

Article From DiD Articles

Handicappedpets.com's September Newsletter

2009-09-28T08:00:00.004-04:00

In the September issue:

What is the quality of life for a handicapped dog?
The Safer Way to Carry an Injured Pet
Help and Advice on Living with a Special Needs Pet
Providing Wheelchairs to Pets in Need
How can your pet be incontinent and in style?

Featuring all of the products, services
and support for special needs pets including the patented, veterinarian approved Walkin' Wheels™ dog wheelchair.

Remember, Handicappedpets.com makes a donation to the Handicapped Pets Foundation for each new subscriber! Subscribe now!

Handicapped Pets Web of the Week - Blind Dogs.net

2009-09-22T08:48:00.003-04:00

OK, so I'm being a little selfish on this one. I admittedly spent a few hours in Handicappedpets.com's Help and Discussion forum last night researching my own dog. Sasha is now 12 and has been suffering from diabetes for over 3 years now. A common side effect from diabetes is blindness. The help and advise forum posted links to Blinddogs.net. The site had great stories, advise, and left me feeling better that I am not alone in our daily challenges.

Know that whatever you may be going through yourself, whether it is a senior pet, diabetes, amputation..etc you can find answers and comfort at Handicappedpets.com's Help and Advise Forum. Click here to find answers to your questions.

Handicapped Pets Can Live a Full Life - A Day at the Lake

2009-09-18T13:20:00.014-04:00

It is so nice checking into Handicappedpets.com's community and finding people sharing photos and stories about their disabled and handicapped pets.

Today we went for a party at Keene's Lake here in Calais. We decided to take Johanna and Pork Chop, as they have been spending most of their time in their crib. So, they got to spend a day with us at the lake!

You can find more inspirational stories and videos by joining Handicappedpets.com's Community.

Handicappedpets.com Had a Great Time at the Integrative Health Pet Expo

2009-09-16T11:38:00.001-04:00

Walkin' Wheels Frequently Asked Questions

2009-09-15T17:13:00.003-04:00

Walkin Wheels - FAQ

Walkin' Wheels, Frequently asked Questions.

A More Comprehensive, up-to-date series of discussions and frequently asked question can be found in our Help & Advivce Forum. Click Here.

Can my dog pee and poop in Walkin' Wheels?

YES. Although the dog cannot 'squat' in the cart, they usually get used to peeing and pooping almost immediately. Watch for it. If your dog does not pee and poop in the cart, take him or her out of the cart to do so.

Will the harness get in the way of my dog's genitals?

NO. Take the harness off the dog and trim it with a pair of scissors so that the neoprene does not cover the genitals. The neoprene material is made to be cut and will not fray or tear. Do not cut the straps underneath the dog.

The loop in the front harness is coming off the end of the cart.

This sometime happens when a highly active dog stretches the loop. We are looking into a different way to manufacture this that will prevent this problem (watch the newsletter for an announcement, you will be offered a replacement if yours has strecthed). In the meantime, the problem can be solved by reinforcing the loop with a tie-wrap, available from us at no charge or from your local hardware store.

My dog is falling backwards in the cart.

Dogs with strong front legs can sometimes lift the front of the cart, pushing the back of the cart down. If this is the case, angle the wheels back a notch or two.

Another Happy Walkin' Wheels Customer

2009-09-10T08:05:00.002-04:00

Lady, a German shepherd from Japan, enjoys getting outside and exercising with her family thanks to her Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair. Lady's family reports how wonderful it is to see their dog walking again with a smile on her face.

I Need Advice Before Purchasing a Wheelchair - Handicappedpets.com's Help and Advice Forum

2009-09-09T09:00:00.006-04:00

Below is a question posted on Handicappedpets.com's help and advice forum wall:

Hi,

We adopted a mixed breed 4 month-old puppy from the SPCA in Apr 08. She was born with a missing right hind leg, just below the knee. This handicap doesn't stop her from running and walking like any 4-legged dogs. However, in order to balance herself, she puts her hind leg in the centre. In this "unnatural" way, her spine is curved. Her hind leg is much bigger at the thigh. Lately, as she gets heavier, she uses her stump when walking and it gets sore and painful. Our fear is that in future, due to this curved spine and strain on the hind leg, she'll develop problems with her spine and achilles tendon on her hind leg. We are thinking of buying a wheelchair for her to use for her morning exercise only . Can anyone share their similar experience?

Visit the link to this discussion to see many different opinions.

HandicappedPets.com announces two reseller programs available for Walkin' Wheels - the pet industry's only fully adjustable, folds flat dog wheelchair

2009-09-08T15:42:00.008-04:00

The on location reseller program allows veterinarians, canine rehabilitation specialists, retailers and other animal care providers to maintain a professional kit complete with frame, various wheel sizes and harnesses necessary to fit a dog with a Walkin' Wheels wheelchair in a matter of minutes. After completing each sale of the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair, on location resellers simply re-order a new frame and wheel set to re-stock their professional kit.

The Walkin' Wheels patented design features easy, no tools required adjustability in length, width and height to accommodate all size dogs ranging from 20 to over 200 pounds. Simply take one measurement of the dog's height, select the appropriate wheel kit and snap adjust the frame accordingly. Your client's dog will be mobile in minutes!

The online reseller program is a convenient option for animal care professionals, individual pet owners, animal welfare organizations and others who maintain an animal related website to sell the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair without maintaining a professional kit on site. The veterinarian approved Walkin' Wheels can be ordered online and is available for next day delivery.

For more information about the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair and to learn how to become an on location and/or online reseller, click here or visit http://handicappedpets.com/www/index.php/for-dealers.html

High resolution media photos are available by request or can be downloaded online at http://handicappedpets.com/www/index.php/media-photos.html

About HandicappedPets.com

HandicappedPets.com provides all of the products, services and support that pet caretakers need to help their disabled, injured or elderly pets enjoy healthy, happy, active lives. The company's signature product is the Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair - the industry's only fully adjustable dog wheelchair that can be ordered online and is available for next day delivery. The veterinarian approved Walkin' Wheels is comfortable and stylish, and it folds flat for convenient travel with your canine companion. Additional information is available online at www.HandicappedPets.com or call (888) 811-PETS (7387)

Walkin' Wheels for Hiking and Swimming and to the Rescue of Homeless Animals

2009-09-04T10:18:00.002-04:00

Do you have a dog that is currently using a Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair? Does your local animal rescue have an upcoming dog walk for charity?

If you and your Walkin' Wheels clad canine are planning to participate in a local dog fundraising walk, please contact HandicappedPets.com to discuss how we can support your efforts.
If you are wondering how active dogs in wheelchairs can really be, don't miss your chance to see Denali hiking and swimming in her Walkin' Wheels.
Help us increase awareness that handicapped pets can lead happy, healthy, active lives while also supporting local efforts to rescue and care for homeless pets. If your dog would like to be considered for a sponsorship as part of Walkin' Wheels to the Rescue, please contact
lisa@handicappedpets.com

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

and provide the details about your dog and the upcoming dog walk fundraising event. Please include a photo!

Handicappedpets.com Discussion Forum

2009-09-03T06:59:00.002-04:00

Help and Advice from Around the Globe at the HandicappedPets.com Discussion Forum
Caretakers and advocates of handicapped pets from around the world participate in discussions on our forum. Recently, "Debbie from Spain" sought advice for her kitten Milu that is suffering from possible Osteogenesis Imperfecta which is also known as "brittle bone syndrome".
To join in on the discussion, click here.

For additional online resources, including several multi-lingual resources on how to express your handicapped pet's bladder, be sure to check out the following wiki. We welcome additional bi-lingual volunteers who would be willing to offer translations to increase our global knowledge base.

Another Happy Customer of Handicappedpets.com

2009-09-01T15:30:00.002-04:00

Handicapped Pets Highlights Healing HEART Sanctuary

2009-09-01T09:11:00.008-04:00

You must all know by now that HandicappedPets.com likes to highlight special organizations, outstanding people, and animals that make lasting impressions. This week I am excited to highlight Healing HEART Sanctuary in Kaneb Utah.

Healing HEART's mission is:

Healing HEART Sanctuary is devoted to helping animals and children get back on their feet directly or through outreach and program development.
They take in rescued animals that have been injured or disabled and rehabilitate them. They either stay with HHS as a part of our onsite program or when it’s time, they find appropriate adoptive homes for these special needs pets. During the animal’s rehabilitative time at Healing HEART Sanctuary, children who are physically, mentally, or emotionally challenged get the chance to interact with, care for, and help in the recovery process of the animals. The gratitude, joy, and love that the animals express enhances the human-animal bond and helps the children learn, among other things, that happiness need not be dependent upon circumstances.
Healing HEART Sanctuary is also dedicated to raising awareness of the able-ness of animals with disabilities, sharing information and collaborating with the public and other animal and people organizations.

You will remember a few weeks back the Handicapped Pets Foundation featured Bella, a beautiful puppy in need of both a forever home and some Walkin' Wheels to get around. Through our Facebook friends and the Handicapped Pets Foundation we were able to help. Funds were raised for her new wheels and she is currently residing at the Healing HEART Sanctuary being rehabilitated and waiting for her forever home.

Please check out Healing HEART Sanctuary's web site where you will find so many inspiring stories, photos, links for donations etc. Remember too that the Handicapped Pets Foundation has other animals that need your help. Click here to donate.

Toot needs some Walkin' Wheels

2009-08-18T10:59:00.009-04:00

Toot, who is simply too cute for words, has outgrown her first set of wheels that were obtained while she was still a growing puppy. Born with a total of five legs, Toot had to have the two smaller, deformed legs amputated when she was only four months old.

Toot is now in search of an adult dog wheelchair that will provide support for her remaining front leg that has been weakened by the additional strain of being a tripod without a wheelchair. Toot also has some weakness in one of her rear legs which increases her need for a new, customized dog wheelchair that will take her through her adult life.

Toot, through her owner Linda, has requested support from the Handicapped Pets Foundation for a new dog wheelchair to help her get around town. Linda, who is disabled and also volunteers her time providing foster care for her local animal rescue, is unable to afford the full cost of a dog wheelchair for her precious Toot. Linda would be extremely grateful for the assistance of the Handicapped Pets Foundation supporters, and she has pledged to share Toot's campaign far and wide in an effort to assist us with raising the money necessary to get Toot a new set of wheels while also raising awareness that handicapped pets can lead full, active, happy lives!

If you would like to make a contribution towards Toot's new set of wheels, please reference "Toot" in the purpose line of the online form. Click here to donate now. If you would prefer to make a donation by mail, you may send a check made payable to Handicapped Pets Foundation, 14 Veterans Road, #22, Amherst, New Hampshire 03031.

Thank you in advance for your support. We look forward to updating you about our efforts to get Toot back on her feet!

Options for Getting a Dog Wheelchair

2009-08-13T15:37:00.008-04:00

By: Mark C.

Dog Wheelchair Rentals

When your dog loses mobility in his back legs, it may be time to get a dog wheelchair. If you do, there are several options:

You can purchase a new dog wheelchair from one of the dog cart companies,
a) You can buy a custom-built dog wheelchair
b) You can purchase an adjustable dog wheel chair like the one from Walkin Wheels
You can buy a used dog wheelchair from E-bay or the handicapped pets classifieds,
You can build a do-it-yourself (DIY) dog wheelchair from the plans on Handicapped Pets,
You can review the dog wheelchair rental programs available
Purchasing a New Dog Wheelchair
New dog wheelchairs come in custom and adjustable configurations. Custom wheelchairs often take two or more weeks to build, require more than a dozen exact measurements and cannot be easily modified later to accommodate your dogs increase or decrease in size or rehabilitative improvements.
Adjustable dog wheelchairs require only a few approximate measurements, can be shipped the next day and can be fitted to your dogs changing physical and rehabilitative needs. The Walkin Wheels dog wheelchair requires only one measurement in height. Many pet care professionals agree that the custom dog wheelchairs are a thing of the past now that the adjustable dog carts have appeared on the scene.
Benefits of an adjustable dog wheelchair are clear; they adjust to the exact configuration your dog needs, they can be modified as your dog grows or his health changes and they are really easy to re-sell because dogs of any size can use them. The fold flat adjustable wheelchair, like the one from Walkin Wheels, is even better because it can be shipped and transported easily.

Purchasing a used dog wheelchair.

The only dog wheelchair you should buy used is a completely adjustable one that folds flat. A chair designed for another dog will probably not fit your dog unless he has the exact same measurements. Even dogs of a similar breed have significant variations in height, length and weight. Another reason to buy a folding dog wheelchair is to save on shipping expenses. If the dog cart does not fold flat, youâ€™ll either have to ship it in a huge box, or assemble it yourself.

Dog Wheelchair Rental Programs

How do dog wheelchair rentals work?

Method 1: You pay the entire cost of a dog wheelchair with a 50% buy-back agreement. One dog wheelchair manufacturer (handicapped pets) offers slightly used dog wheelchairs in their rental & buyback program. This is an excellent system and highly recommended. For example, if the cost is $400.00 and you use the dog wheelchair for six weeks, you have paid $35 per week for the use of an excellent canine cart. Alternately, many people who use this rental program post the dog wheelchair on the classifieds and get much more than the 50% back.

Method 2: You pay $109-$339 upfront depending on the size of dog wheelchair required for a rental. Then each week, you pay an additional $30-$70. By week three or 21 days, you will have paid between $169 and $479, and you still do not own the dog wheelchair.

Method 3: Returning the Dog Wheelchair. Some Dog Wheelchair manufacturers promote the idea that you can pay full-price for a dog wheelchair, and then return it for a credit if you do not need it for very long.

The return policies on all but the Walkin Wheels dog wheelchair are pretty dismal. One company has no return policy at all, and another one only gives you back 65% and you must return it within 10 days. If you need it for more than 10 days, youâ€™re stuck trying to find a dog to resell it to that has the exact same measurements as your dog.

We have found that most pet caretakers will opt for the Method 1, a guaranteed 50% buy-back of the dog wheelchair. Itâ€™s simple, straightforward, and guaranteed. It also allows you to sell your pet wheelchair on the Handicapped Pets Classifieds or E-bay. Alternately, you can keep the wheelchair or donate it to a shelter or rescue. They LOVE the adjustable dog wheelchairs because they can use it again and again.

Author Resource:-> www.WalkinWheels.com

Article From DiD Articles

Beautiful Bella In Her Walkin' Wheels Dog Wheelchair

2009-08-10T09:29:00.004-04:00

Walkin' Wheels Dog Wheelchair Was Featured on Fox News.

2009-08-07T14:47:00.003-04:00

The Walkin' Wheels Dog Wheelchair from HandicappedPets.com was featured on Fox News. Watch as this lovely pup can walk again! This amazing wheelchair is completely adjustable -- will fit any dog from 20 to 250 pounds. It folds flat for easy 'bring it along'. The wheelchair can ship next day and required only one simple measurement.

Click here to see the video

Dog Wheelchairs: A Beginner's Guide

2009-08-06T19:59:00.003-04:00

Dog Wheelchairs: What you need to know before buying.

A Dog Wheelchair is a device that a dog sits in so they can walk, run, and play even though their back legs do not work anymore. This can happen due to injury, car accident, cancer, degenerative myelopathy (DM), arthritis, and a number of spinal problems and diseases. Often, it's as simple as a dog's back goes out. In the past, when a dog could no longer walk, the pet was put to sleep. This is no longer necessary, especially if the dog is otherwise healthy and happy. With the help of a Dog Wheelchair, these animals can live long, happy, healthy lives as they run, play, swim, and more. At the end of this article is a link to a video of a Golden Retriever running through the woods and jumping in the lake in a dog wheelchair.

There are several brands of Dog Wheelchairs, also called Dog Carts and Canine Carts (K9 Carts), on the market. Major manufacturers include HandicappedPets.com, WalkinWheels.com, DogKarts.com, and More. In the past, these had to be custom made; fitted precisely to the dog. The dog's owner would have to take up to 13 exact measurements and wait two to three weeks for the wheelchair to arrive. Now, with the invention of the Walkin Wheels dog wheelchair by HandicappedPets.com, this is not the case only one approximate measurement is needed and wheelchairs can be delivered next day.

Custom pet wheelchairs have several serious drawbacks. ¢ They require a large number of exact measurements.

¢ They do not always fit when they arrive, involving shipping back to the manufacturer. ¢ If the dog's health changes, the wheelchairs need to be re-built.

¢ Because they are custom made, they are not returnable.

¢ Larger dog wheelchairs are bulky and difficult to take with you. Many will not even fit in the back seat or trunk of a car.

¢ They are difficult to re-sell because they are made for one specific size dog

¢ They do not tend to look very good; made of PVC or tubing.

All of the problems have now been solved. Ever since the invention of the Walkin Wheels in 2008, dog wheelchairs have become an entirely different type of product. Because they are adjustable, they are available immediately, have a decent return policy, and a great re-sale value. They can be adjusted, without tools, if the dog's health changes and fold flat with the twist of a knob so they are really easy to take with you.

Some of the most common questions include:

Will My Dog Be Comfortable in wheelchair?

YES: The Adjustable wheelchair can be fit to the dog. Options in harnessing systems allow for any dogs comfort.

Can my Dog do his business in a dog wheelchair?

YES: The harnesses are designed to allow for elimination.

Will a dog wheelchair cure my dog?

You will need to ask your veterinarian. The purpose of the wheelchair is to allow the animal to get the exercise he or she needs to stay healthy.

What do I do when I no longer need the wheelchair.

If you have a custom wheelchair, you will need to find a dog with the exact same measurements. If you have an adjustable wheelchair you can sell it on ebay or donate it to a shelter.

To learn more about dog wheelchairs: http://www.HandicappedPets.com http://www.dogwheelchairreviews.com/

For a great video of a dog in a wheelchair hiking and swimming, see: http://blip.tv/file/2438581

Handicapped Dog Hikes and Swims in a Dog Wheelchair

2009-08-04T21:59:00.002-04:00

Click to Play

This loving dog is able to hike in the woods and swim in the lake with his Walkin' Wheels Dog Wheelchair -- the only Fully Adjustable, Fold Flat, No Tools Mobility Wheels for Pets.

Dog Gets in her Wheels

2009-08-04T21:58:00.002-04:00

Click to Play

Watch Lucy, a Puerto Rico Rescue Dog, get into her Walkin' Wheels dog Wheelchair. It's completely adjustable, without tools, and folds flat for easy transportation.

Handicapped Pet's Keep Pets Safe

2009-07-31T20:15:00.007-04:00

A Life Jacket keeps pets safe on the water. It provides ultimate buoyancy and high visibility to keep dogs and other animals safe on the water. Constructed to provide buoyancy, warmth and comfort, the Life Jackets features an advanced mesh underbelly for proper draining and drying, which provides your dog more comfort and healthier conditions than traditional pet life jackets. Safety features include the new reflective strips for maximum visibility, the new, bright neon-yellow color and the handle on top for quick and easy grabbing.

Other features include adjustable nylon straps, quick-release buckles, along with a heavy-duty yet more comfortable Velcro® fastening system around the belly and neck to keep securely fastened.

I am sending a picture of my dog Sophie wearing the life-vest. When I put the vest on her, she didn't even notice it!!She loves retrieving sticks, and as soon as she got in the water she suddenly noticed she could float. It was funny to watch as she stopped all the dog paddling for a moment and seemed to enjoy just floating in the water. She now uses it to enjoy the coolness of the water without all the effort of paddling all the time. The importance of having a life-vest on her, became apparent when we had her out to open sea in our boat for the first time ..She had no idea how deep the water was, as she was up to this point, only use to slowly walking into the water from a beach. My husband and myself had no idea that she would just suddenly jump overboard in open sea!! The waves were fairly rough, and because she is only 10 lbs to begin with, the waves started washing over her, and we had to act fast to pull her from the water by using the convenient handle attached to the vest.It is definitely the best purchase I have ever made for her and needless to say, she will be wearing her life vest whenever she is around any water from now on! I was so pleased with my life vest, order I also bought the rain-suit. She has worn it many times here in St. Johns , Newfoundland <> and it was great. For the first time ever, I actually walked my shih tzu in the rain and she didn't require a full bath when she got home. Denise and Sophie

From: "Clarine Lee" I wanted to comment on the wonderful lifejacket you created that we had a chance to buy for our little shih tzu Jaq! Marvin, Jaq and I are avid canoeists and a lifejacket for Jaq is a must. Marvin and I love the extra chest piece for extra buoyancy and security. I know dogs are natural swimmers but you can never be too safe. The picture was taken at Earl Rowe Provincial Park where we went camping and canoeing this past summer. I wanted to send you the picture so that you can see Jaq is super happy and comfortable wearing the life vest.

Handicappedpets.com's Help and Advice Forum

2009-07-27T13:19:00.005-04:00

Quite often I am asked questions which I just can not answer. Mostly by friends or followers in need of advise or others who just need to surround themselves with people living parallel lives dealing with senior or handicapped pets. I am posting this link to Handicappedpets.com's Help and Advise Forum for this purpose.

This forum allows you to post questions and follow along with other people's personal journeys. There are also sections dealing with adoption and rescue, financial aid, and other medical issues.

Please go to Handicappedpets.com's Help and Advise Forum and check it out. This is a great community and this forum is loaded with priceless information.

Handicapped Pets Wants to Help Lil' Bella Get Some Walkin' Wheels

2009-07-21T12:29:00.009-04:00

The list of animals in need of our help both physically, financially, and spiritually is endless. There is no blog that could ever cover their needs. I have never been more aware of this, until I took on the job of Handicappedpets.com's social net worker. I look at posts and photos from our network sites with my hand over my eyes as if I'm watching my first scary movie. Ignorance is blind. I personally felt like I was some superhero due to the fact that I cared for my own special needs pet and grew up with parents forever mending a broken wing, a cat damaged chipmunk or whatever came across our path. To be exposed to this world's ignorance has been both shocking and eye opening.

Handicapped pets fell into my lap, literally. A stay at home mom who coincidentally was searching for a way to make extra money to help with the financial strain of a senior pet stricken with diabetes, allergies, lameness, and deafness. The list goes on and so do the bills. How ironic - to find a job from Handicapped Pets for my own handicapped pet. You can't make that stuff up!

So here is my plea, my own social networking goal. I want to help another pet in need. Click on the link below and read Bella's story. Please consider donating. If you can not donate then share this with others, because maybe they can. Let's help this puppy that has not had the best life so far. To be born healthy and now suddenly paralyzed at a time when she should be running, jumping, and yes, causing chaos! If I had the chance to have my senior lab young enough again to be putting holes in my son's sweatshirt from tugging at him, digging holes in my gardens without my knowledge, and escaping our boundaries to greet neighbors I'd do it in a heart beat. Lets let Bella be a puppy - she can do that with the adjustable Walkin' Wheels from Handicappedpets.com thanks to Mark C. Robinson.

Please go to http://hpets.org/pets-who-need-help/10-lil-bella-needs-a-dog-wheelchair.html heelchair.html and read her story. Contribute whatever you can and share this blog or link with as many as you can. Make sure you put Bella's name on the purpose line of your contribution. She has the right to be a puppy too!

I have never used my networking for such begging, but I think my passion stems from seeing my own friend, Sasha, literally in her final days. The thoughts of another just coming into her prime with so many cards stacked against her breaks my heart. Please consider contributing to Bella's wheels!

The Handicapped Pet Help Fund

2009-07-16T15:44:00.006-04:00

From time to time, HandicappedPets.com recognizes a caretaker of handicapped pets that need some special attention, and a little extra help. There are those who are so selflessly dedicated to their animal families that they give up a little more than they can afford.
This special fund is used to provide support to those people.

Our Commitments:
1 - 100% of all money donated goes directly to the person or people in need. There are NO handling, overhead, or administrative charges deducted from your contribution.
2 - HandicappedPets.com provides help only to those people whom we have personal, direct knowledge of. WE WILL NOT BE SCAMMED. We research all of our donations carefully.
3- We will maintain a complete accounting, available to anyone who asks, of money received (without the names of the donors), and where it goes.
To Donate to this special fund, you can call, send a check to the address on the left of our web page, or we can charge your credit card.
To contribute an amount not listed on our website, and to write your dedication, you can enter the amount in the section marked "Where did you hear about us?" at the bottom of the form. Or, of course, call or email. Please visit The Handicapped Pet Help Fund.

Walkin' Wheels Adjustable Wheelchair for Dogs

2009-07-15T08:46:00.004-04:00

AS SEEN ON GOOD MORNING AMERICA

A wheelchair can enable your dog to run and play again, get the exercise he (or she) needs, and live a happy, healthy life. Designed to help animals with hip and leg problems including degenerative myelopathy (DM), hip dysplasia, arthritis, paralysis, slipped disc, soreness, spinal and neurological problems, surgical recovery, and more.

A Walkin' Wheels dog wheelchair can be shipped next day, requires only approximate measurements (our cart wizard does all the work), folds flat, comes fully assembled and is adjusted, without tools, to fit your dog, or any other dog. In some cases, such as for animals under 20 lbs or over 100 lbs, some customization may be required.

"We have thoroughly tested and evaluated the Walkin' Wheels Dog Wheelchair..."Read More

Meet Klondike in his New Walkin' Wheels from Handicappedpets.com

2009-07-10T08:23:00.001-04:00

Another Happy Customer - Meet Klondike in his new Walkin' Wheels

Dog walks again in Walkin Wheels Dog Wheelchair

2009-07-10T08:08:00.002-04:00

Dog walks again in Walkin Wheels Dog Wheelchair
Video sent by markcrobinson

Walkin' Wheels for Handicapped Pets Dog Wheelchair helps an injured golden walk again

Handicappedpets.com is Proud to be a Sponsor of the Integrative Health Pet Expo

2009-07-08T08:17:00.003-04:00

Integrative Health Pet Expo

Bringing together pet caretakers and veterinarians for healthier and happier pets
Fitchburg, Massachusetts September 10-11, 2009
Courtyard by Marriott - Fitchburg
Thursday, September 10, 2009 • 2:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Friday, September 11, 2009 • 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
There will be time to reflect on the anniversary of 9/11
This inaugural event will give the public the opportunity to hear cutting edge information on integrative health care options for their animals including acupuncture, homeopathy, nutrition, vaccinations and more.

Have you ever wondered how your pet can have access to the same treatments such as acupuncture and homeopathy that make you a healthier person? How about nutrition? What are the fresh organic options available for your dog, cat, horse, bird? At the Integrative Health Pet Expo, you will learn answers to these questions and many more!
Don't miss this unique event for you and your pets!
This two day health and wellness event includes:
Lecture Series - Lectures from leaders in integrative health care for pets
Exhibition Hall - Exhibitors from natural and healthful products companies
Resources - Non-profit organizations that support holistic animal care
Silent Auction - Featuring a wealth of integrative health care products
All proceeds raised through the Integrative Pet Health Expo will benefit the following non-profit organizations:
The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) explores and supports alternative and complementary approaches to veterinary healthcare and is dedicated to integrating all aspects of animal wellness in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. All fundraising proceeds support student scholarships and research for integrative humane education.
The Center for Integrative Veterinary Care is a non-profit organization that is committed to educting and informing the general public, animal caretakers and the veterinary community about the integrative healthcare options available for the benefit of both animals and their caretakers.
The Dr. DoMore™ Project is a documentary film series that highlights the significance of integrative veterinary medicine and the importance of it becoming a mainstream model of veterinary care. The Dr. DoMore Project is sponsored by the non-profit Center for Integrative Veterinary Care.

go to: http://www.ihpe.info/ for more information.

Walkin' Wheels Adjustable Dog Wheelchair Receives Patent!

2009-07-07T20:20:00.004-04:00

Pet Industry’s First Fully Adjustable Dog Wheelchair Receives Patent
Walkin’ Wheels is Transforming Mobility for Handicapped Pets

Amherst, NH - (July 1, 2009) Mark C. Robinson, President and Founder of HandicappedPets.com, set out over five years ago to design the ideal solution for dogs who could not walk - an adjustable dog wheelchair. HandicappedPets.com customers and contributors to the Help & Advice forum provided their insights and ideas.

“I wanted our customers to have a product that was fully adjustable, stylish and transportable so that the wheelchair would provide comfort yet still accommodate a dog’s changing needs,” Robinson explained.

Dog owners are often in emergency situations and want to assist their companions as quickly as possible, but customized dog wheelchairs require complicated measurements and can take up to two weeks to design and build.

The newly patented Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair requires only four simple measurements, can be ordered online, and is available for next day delivery.

“Being awarded this patent after 5 years of work is a significant accomplishment, and I find myself frequently glancing over at the framed certificate. But the real joy is in the knowledge that today there are more than a thousand dogs walking and playing with their families because of the work of the engineers, vendors, and team members who made this happen with me,” commented Robinson.

About HandicappedPets.com

HandicappedPets.com provides everything – products, services and support – thatpet caretakers need to help their disabled, injured or elderly petsenjoy healthy, happy, active lives. The company’s signature product is the Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair – the industry’s only fully adjustable dog wheelchair that can be ordered online and is available for next day delivery. The veterinarian approved Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair is comfortable and stylish, and it folds flat for convenient travel with your canine companion. Additional information is available online at http://www.handicappedpets.com/ or call (888) 811-PETS(7387)

Handicappedpets.com's Pet of the Week!

2009-07-07T09:22:00.006-04:00

I am forwarding this email below from one of our network friends. We need to find a home for this beautiful little handicapped pet!

Statesboro GA -Paralyzed Ihasa Boy Needs New Home/Owner Threats To EuthHere is all the email about Titus the lhasa and all contact info - -Jennifer Hearing is the owner. Email isjennifer...hearing@ gmail.com

Bottom line - they had a baby, they are moving to OHIO and the dog is becoming a burden - sigh -- she is considering euthanasia so if anyone can give TItus another chance, please do so. THe sanctuary she wrote to is full, lhasa rescue has no one to foster -- PLEASE if you can help contact her ASAP - here is Titus!