Pets

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is one of the most common spinal conditions in dogs, especially among certain breeds with distinct physical features. If you’re a dog parent, breeder, vet tech, or animal care specialist, knowing which breeds are genetically more prone to IVDD can help you spot early signs and take proactive steps to manage…

Pit bulls are strong, loyal dogs. Many live long, healthy lives. But like all breeds, they face certain health problems as they age. Knowing what risks they face helps owners catch signs early and give the best care possible. This can add years to their lives and make those years better. On this page, we’ll…

As dogs get older, they go through physical changes that can make walking harder. If your senior dog has started to trip, stumble, or fall while walking, you’re not alone. This can be upsetting to watch, especially if your dog used to move easily. The good news is that many causes of this are manageable,…

Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects many dogs, especially as they age. It’s something no pet parent wants to hear, but it’s also not a death sentence. With the right care, dogs with hip dysplasia can live long, happy lives. Let’s break this down simply. We’ll look at what hip dysplasia is, how it…

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) can be hard for any dog and owner to face. Beagles, known for their cheerful energy, are sadly among the breeds more likely to have IVDD. Knowing how this condition works, how to spot it early, and how to help your Beagle stay comfortable and active can make a big difference….

When a dog is diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), it can be stressful for everyone involved. Stage 5 IVDD is the most severe form of this condition. Understanding what this stage means and what options are available can help you make the best decisions for your dog’s comfort and quality of life. What is…

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a spinal condition that can affect many dog breeds, but Shih Tzus are especially prone to it. If you share your life with a Shih Tzu or plan to welcome one soon, knowing the facts about IVDD can help you spot early signs and give your dog the best care…

When a dog is diagnosed with Stage 4 Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), it can feel overwhelming. But clear information helps you stay calm and know what steps to take. This guide explains Stage 4 IVDD in simple terms. You will learn what it means, how to spot it, how it is treated, and what recovery…

If your dog has back pain or can’t walk well, your vet may talk about hemilaminectomy. This surgery can help dogs who have a slipped or ruptured disc in their spine. Many dogs recover well if they get the right care. Here’s what you need to know. What is hemilaminectomy? A hemilaminectomy is a surgery…

Corgis are charming, smart, and loyal dogs. But because of their long backs and short legs, they’re more likely to develop a spinal condition called IVDD—short for intervertebral disc disease. IVDD can be serious. It affects a dog’s ability to move and walk, and sometimes it causes pain or even paralysis. This page explains what…

Intervertebral Disc Disease, or IVDD, is a condition that affects the spinal cord of dogs when one or more of the cushioning discs between the vertebrae slip or burst. This can cause compression of the spinal cord, leading to pain, nerve damage, and in more serious cases, difficulty walking or even paralysis. Stage 3 IVDD…

Vision loss in dogs can be sudden and life-changing. That’s why finding the right support tools is crucial in helping blind dogs stay safe and confident. While Walkin’ Pets no longer sells its own Blind Dog Halo, we continue to support the blind dog community by recommending Muffin’s Halo for Blind Dogs, a well-respected product…

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) can cause sudden pain, weakness, or even paralysis in dogs. If your dog has been diagnosed with IVDD and your vet has recommended surgery, it’s important to understand what that means. This page will walk you through everything you need to know about IVDD surgery, including how successful it is, the…

French Bulldogs are loved for their playful, affectionate nature and compact bodies. But many owners don’t realize that this breed is also at high risk for a spinal condition called intervertebral disc disease, or IVDD. It’s a serious problem that affects the discs in the spine and can lead to pain, weakness, or even paralysis….

Intervertebral disc disease, often called IVDD, is a spine condition that affects many dogs, especially smaller breeds with long backs. If your dog has been diagnosed with Stage 2 IVDD, it means the disc has started to press on the spinal cord, but your dog is still able to walk, although they may be in…

Blog Is IVDD in Dogs Fatal? Can the Disease Kill a Dog? Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is one of the most common neurological disorders affecting dogs. It impacts the spine and can lead to varying levels of pain, mobility issues, and in some cases, paralysis. For dog owners, hearing the diagnosis can be upsetting and…

Dachshunds are a breed many people adore for their personality and unique shape. But their long back puts them at high risk for a spinal condition called Intervertebral Disc Disease, or IVDD. If you have a Dachshund, it’s important to know how IVDD works, what the early signs look like, how it progresses, and what…

Intervertebral Disc Disease, or IVDD, is a spinal condition that affects many dogs. Some dogs are more likely to develop it because of their breed or body shape, but it can happen to any dog. When a dog is diagnosed with Stage 1 IVDD, it means the issue has just started. At this point, the…

Blog New Wheelchair Leash for Walkin’ Wheels Wheelchair

Tina Roe was carjacked in St. Louis while doing volunteer work to help lost pets; her own dog’s wheelchair was in the stolen car. Did this dampen Tina’s spirit? Heck, no! This powerhouse of an animal lover was out the next day, helping animals once again. Here’s the story: Just an Ordinary Day Tina, who…

I have to tell you how absolutely THRILLED I am with the Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair now!!!

Blind or visually impaired dogs can be helped with the Blind Dog Halo from Walkin’ Pets by walkinpets.com. The Blind Dog Halo is an easy way for blind dogs to gain confidence in navigating their surroundings. Meet Sterling, Our First Product Tester Kelly Arsenault brought her dog, Sterling, to Walkin’ Pets to inquire about any…

Pet goats were the topic of discussion on a recent Happy, Healthy Pets radio podcast, featuring Sarah Ericson, owner of Champ the Goat. Sarah and her family are part of the farm-to-table movement and raise dairy goats and ducks for eggs. Born to a rescue goat on their farm, Champ has some special needs. Champ…

Looking for a new home is a time-consuming process, and it can be a stressful one if you’re not sure what you want. Having a good plan in place and thinking about your needs ahead of time will ensure that you don’t waste valuable hours searching for the perfect place and finding disappointment everywhere you…

It all started with a text from my grown daughter, Molly, who is living in Mexico: “Mom! I have a dog you guys should adopt! The sweetest angel ever. She’s a tiny puppy with a slightly disabled back leg. She can walk, but she also sits a lot because of it. Can we take her…

The Manchester Animal Shelter in New Hampshire was on the “Happy, Healthy Pets” radio podcast, sharing news about their upcoming “Mutt Strut” and more. This cat and dog shelter needs the ongoing help of the community to do the great work it does! Municipal V. Private Shelters What’s the difference between a municipal versus a…

Dog and cat photos and videos have practically taken over social media these days! Three media experts shared their pet photo and video tips with Walkin’ Pets blogger and Marketing Director Lisa Murray on the “Happy, Healthy Pets” radio podcast. Pet Stars! Nowadays, there are many social media stars with four paws — or hooves….

Anyone who owns a cat knows the loving bond that can form between owner and pet, but scientific research now shows just how powerful this bond can be. For thousands of years, humans have taken in and looked after unwell and disabled animals. However, it appears that the potential for healing can be reciprocated by…

Blog What You Need to Know About Dog Supplements Dog supplements abound in the marketplace, so how do you know which ones to choose? Russell Phillips weighed in on the subject on the recent “Happy, Healthy Pets” radio podcast. Why Give Dog Supplements? Always consult with your veterinarian before providing supplements for your dog to…

T.J. Jordi was interviewed on the “Happy, Healthy Pets” radio podcast, speaking about his role as director of the Cheatham County Animal Controloffice in Tennessee. This man is an inspiration! An animal lover extraordinaire, T.J. works tirelessly to save dogs and other animals. He has five dogs of his own, including two disabled dogs in…

Panthers should not be pets! Lest anyone should get the idea that a panther would make a great pet, the answer is a firm “no.” Panthers are wild animals.

My daughter purchased some doggy “Walkin’ Wheels” from you, for her boxer, Boags, who has degenerative myelopathy. Because Michael lives in the bustling city of Arlington, VA, and works days in DC, she was just about to give up on ever getting Boags acclimated to his new wheels. She’d even repacked them in the box…

Having a pet dog that lives a long time can be one of the most fulfilling things in the world. Senior dogs offer all the same benefits of having a younger pet, such as companionship and protection. But they also offer more wisdom and less energy than younger dogs. This means that senior dogs often…

Thank you JDWard for this guest blog post A long time ago, I decided that all life was sacred, and that I would do whatever possible to help an animal in need, regardless of size or type — or in the case of actually rescuing animals, the type of injury or illness. Providing more time…

FIDO Friendly magazine’s 9th annual Get Your Licks on Route 66 Pet Adoption Tour is hitting the road! Greg and Susan Sims, (respective president and publisher of FIDO Friendly), organize the annual event in support of cat and dog adoption from shelters across the country. The effort is all about raising awareness and helping dogs…

Kelly Arsenault, the founder and president of Pronepups.org, talks to Mark Robinson about rescuing Papillons and Pomeranians on the “Happy, Healthy Pets” radio podcast. They were joined by Bryanna Santoro, a Jr. volunteer at P.R.O.N.E. who donates her time to the rescue. Humane Breeders Humane breeders do not sell their puppies to pet shops. Nor…

Adopting a dog is joyous experience as well as a huge responsibility. Adopting a dog with a disability adds yet another layer of complexity. These animals require special care and attention to ensure that their unique medical, physical, social, and psychological needs are met. Think about how much energy and time a typical dog requires…

Blog Lift Support Harness that Really Helps Dog Mobility Do you need dog mobility support for your best friend? If your dog has trouble getting up from lying down, or has difficulty getting up or down stairs, a harness can help. The same harness can be used to help your dog transition to getting in…

Blog Dog Diapers an Easy Solution to Accidents and Incontinence If your pet is incontinent, leaks, or is having too many accidents, disposable dog diapers might be the answer. What to Do? Aging, injured, or disabled dogs often have incontinence issues. When a dog leaks, or has frequent accidents, it can become an impediment to…

Why is my dog suddenly having trouble walking? A gradual onset limp and a dog’s sudden inability to stand up or walk on its own can be caused by many different factors. Although old age may play a part, there is likely another cause for a dog’s hind leg weakness. Sudden mobility changes in dogs…

Although many mobility conditions progressively worsen over time, sometimes canine paralysis can occur suddenly. Where it seems like overnight, a previously healthy dog wakes up and is completely unable to walk. There was a time not so long ago when a diagnosis of paralysis would automatically mean euthanizing your dog. Thankfully, the opinions are changing,…

When pets experience involuntary muscle trembling, they are experiencing a repetitive muscle movement that they can not control. Trembling and shaking legs are unpredictable and may impact only one limb or several. Shaking back legs, twitching, and leg tremors in dogs are likely caused by a medical condition. Although shaking can be a sign of…

Blog Giant Disabled Tortoise Has Something to Shell-ebrate It’s A Wonderful Tortoise What would you do to give your pet the best life possible? Jaime Loebener saved her 11- year old Sulcata Tortoise from an exotic animal rescue in Knoxville, TN. George Bailey the Tortoise was born with a metabolic bone disease that caused his…

Blog Pet care “Sanctuary” in need of loving home On a cold February night, three pit bull puppies who appeared to have neurological conditions were found dumped in a box in an alleyway in St. Louis, MO, at just six weeks old. Due to their condition, the puppies spent several weeks at the Stray Rescue…

The purpose of the dog wheelchair is to help the dog get exercise. At Walkin’ Pets we’ve gone to great lengths to make sure our wheelchair never collapses on the dog. This is for the health and safety of the dog. We did thoroughly investigate the possibilities of creating a sit-down chair but have not…

Hit the road and bring your furry companion along for the ride! Living the digital nomad lifestyle means freedom is key, but when you’re traveling with a pet, things can get a bit more complex. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! By planning ahead and staying adaptable, you can embrace this thrilling way of…

The Schnauzer is a playful, affectionate breed that loves their family. With their distinctive look, most people know the Schnauzer for their mustached faces and thick eyebrows. This is one breed with a lot of personality! This unique breed is available in Miniature and Standard sizes, with the Miniature Schnauzer weighing between 11 to 20…

Owning a handicapped pet can be challenging. They require much care but can also be some of the most loving, impressive companions. You might sometimes feel you’re not doing enough for your extra-special animal friend, but owners of handicapped pets can draw inspiration from para-athletes who overcome daily obstacles. Here are some lessons to inspire…

Maintaining your dog’s mobility and activity levels is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Assistive devices, such as a dog wheelchair, were developed specifically for this purpose. Although the idea of a dog wheelchair may have seemed ludicrous a few years ago, it now plays a vital role in helping countless dogs that struggle…

The lively and energetic Beagle is an adventurous and family-friendly dog. Naturally curious and originally bred for hunting, Beagles love the outdoors. Characterized by their incredible sense of smell, this medium-sized dog needs a lot of exercise and may bark when excited. They can be a bit independent, especially when on the trail of a…

Taking care of a newly paralyzed dog can be a challenging experience for your entire family. Your once self-sufficient and active dog now requires your assistance, even for the most basic tasks. It can be overwhelming to know where to begin, and it’s normal to place a lot of pressure on yourself because you want…

Helping an injured dog get back on its feet is a vital part of the recovery process. A  dog wheelchair can play an integral role in a dog’s rehabilitation. A cart allows the dog to stand upright instead of lying down, and it can also improve recovery times. Adding a five to ten-minute cart walk…

As devoted pet owners, we often find ourselves facing uncharted territories when our best friend encounters life-altering circumstances. When your first bring home a pet with mobility issues, there are a lot of unknowns and unforeseen challenges. In this article, we will explore the essential aspects of caring for a paralyzed pet, and highlight a…

Frigid temperatures and wet weather can make cause our joints to ache or cause them to stiffen; the same thing happens to dogs. Cold weather can have a significant impact on a dog’s movements. The impact can be even more drastic on an arthritic dog. A dog with arthritis already experiences joint inflammation, and the…

Collies are an intelligent, friendly dog breed that makes an excellent family pet. Classified as a larger dog, Collies can weigh between 50 and 75 pounds and live for 12 to 14 years. As a whole, Collie’s are a relatively healthy breed, but there are a few health conditions that every Collie pet parent should…

Collies are an intelligent, friendly dog breed that makes an excellent family pet. Classified as a larger dog, Collies can weigh between 50 and 75 pounds and live for 12 to 14 years. As a whole, Collie’s are a relatively healthy breed, but there are a few health conditions that every Collie pet parent should…

Frigid temperatures and wet weather can make cause our joints to ache or cause them to stiffen; the same thing happens to dogs. Cold weather can have a significant impact on a dog’s movements. The impact can be even more drastic on an arthritic dog. A dog with arthritis already experiences joint inflammation, and the…

As devoted pet owners, we often find ourselves facing uncharted territories when our best friend encounters life-altering circumstances. When your first bring home a pet with mobility issues, there are a lot of unknowns and unforeseen challenges. In this article, we will explore the essential aspects of caring for a paralyzed pet, and highlight a…

Helping an injured dog get back on its feet is a vital part of the recovery process. A  dog wheelchair can play an integral role in a dog’s rehabilitation. A cart allows the dog to stand upright instead of lying down, and it can also improve recovery times. Adding a five to ten-minute cart walk…

Taking care of a newly paralyzed dog can be a challenging experience for your entire family. Your once self-sufficient and active dog now requires your assistance, even for the most basic tasks. It can be overwhelming to know where to begin, and it’s normal to place a lot of pressure on yourself because you want…

The lively and energetic Beagle is an adventurous and family-friendly dog. Naturally curious and originally bred for hunting, Beagles love the outdoors. Characterized by their incredible sense of smell, this medium-sized dog needs a lot of exercise and may bark when excited. They can be a bit independent, especially when on the trail of a…

Maintaining your dog’s mobility and activity levels is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Assistive devices, such as a dog wheelchair, were developed specifically for this purpose. Although the idea of a dog wheelchair may have seemed ludicrous a few years ago, it now plays a vital role in helping countless dogs that struggle…

Owning a handicapped pet can be challenging. They require much care but can also be some of the most loving, impressive companions. You might sometimes feel you’re not doing enough for your extra-special animal friend, but owners of handicapped pets can draw inspiration from para-athletes who overcome daily obstacles. Here are some lessons to inspire…

The Schnauzer is a playful, affectionate breed that loves their family. With their distinctive look, most people know the Schnauzer for their mustached faces and thick eyebrows. This is one breed with a lot of personality! This unique breed is available in Miniature and Standard sizes, with the Miniature Schnauzer weighing between 11 to 20…

Hit the road and bring your furry companion along for the ride! Living the digital nomad lifestyle means freedom is key, but when you’re traveling with a pet, things can get a bit more complex. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! By planning ahead and staying adaptable, you can embrace this thrilling way of…

It’s not always easy to spot the signs that your dog’s mobility is changing. Many of the signs of mobility loss begin very slowly and may even seem like a normal part of the aging process. Whether your dog has a hard time standing up after a nap, is less active than they once were,…

What is Lumbosacral Disc Disease? Lumbosacral disc disease is degeneration compression of the associated nerves of the lumbosacral joint. In humans, the lumbosacral joint is where we feel low back pain. In dogs, the lumbosacral junction is one of the highest-motion joints of the spine. It is also the connection between the highly mobile lumbar…

CL tears and cruciate injuries are common injuries for dogs. In fact, ACL ruptures occur more often in dogs than in humans! According to the National Library of Medicine, out of 100,000 dogs, approximately 2,610 will suffer from an ACL tear annually compared to under 75 humans in the same size group. In 73% of these…

Being a parent to a large dog means there’s more to love, but when that dog is unable to walk on their own, you’re left with a difficult problem. How do you lift and support a large dog without hurting yourself? Picking up your dog and carrying them isn’t always an option when your dog…

Dog wheelchairs, also known as canine carts, are specially designed devices that can help dogs with mobility issues to move around easier and more comfortably. These devices come in different sizes and types to accommodate dogs of various breeds and sizes. The decision to get your dog a wheelchair, is an investment in your dog’s continued…

It is vitally important for a paralyzed dog or cat to be able to get the exercise they need and to maintain their independence as much as possible. A wheelchair is crucial for your best friend to get outside, enjoy their daily walk, and play. But what does your pet use indoors or when your…

In a world where every cat deserves a paw-some life, providing specialized care for physically handicapped cats is of utmost importance. Whether they were born with a disability or acquired it later in life, these exceptional felines require extra attention and support to thrive. From understanding their unique needs to creating an accessible environment, we’ll…

As a pet parent, you have a lot of oversight about what your furry friends eat, drink and play with throughout the day. However, some things are less in your control. For example, the air quality in your area could be subpar or detrimental to human and pet health. What can you do in this…

The first time a dog owner hears about dog wheelchairs might be because their dog has become paralyzed or is having a hard time getting around. And that can mean a lot of unanswered questions. Here are some of the more common questions that pet parents have about dog wheelchairs and how they work: Why…

The Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair is a mobility assist device that provides dogs with the support they need to stay active. The Walkin’ Wheels wheelchair features full adjustability in length, width, and height to offer pets a customized fit. Many injured or paralyzed dogs will use a wheelchair during recovery and for additional support during…

A dog wheelchair plays a pivotal role in a dog’s degenerative myelopathy journey. Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a progressive neurological disease that takes its toll on a dog’s mobility. As DM progresses, a dog’s back legs will slowly weaken before the hind legs become fully paralyzed. Eventually, the mobility loss progresses up a dog’s spine…

As the temperature drops and winter sets in, our canine companions face a unique set of challenges. For them, cold weather is not just picturesque snowfall and cozy evenings. But it also marks the beginning of the season where they deal with lots of health risks. As pet owners, it falls upon us to ensure…