How to Tell If Your Paralyzed Dog is Happy
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Caring for a sick canine can be incredibly emotionally painful, particularly when that sickness seems to impact the dog’s quality of life. How can you tell whether or not a dog is really happy? At K9 Carts, we’ve made it our mission to help pets struggling with mobility issues. Paralysis is one such issue that can drastically affect a pet’s daily activities. Some pet parents view paralysis as a tipping of the scales, a point at which their dog can no longer enjoy life. But that isn’t necessarily true. So, what is the truth? Can a paralyzed dog live a happy life? The short answer—it depends on the dog’s individual condition and unique health needs. Overall, it’s very possible for a paralyzed or partially paralyzed dog to continue to live a full, happy life. Mobility aids like dog wheel chairs and handheld slings can allow paralyzed canines to regain mobility, improving their mood, returning their independence, and ultimately giving them a new lease on life! Let’s dive deeper into the potential quality of life of paralyzed dogs.
Causes and Severity of Paralysis in Dogs
Certain diseases and health conditions can lead to different levels and severity of paralysis in canines. Sometimes, a dog may slowly lose the use of her back legs, eventually resorting to dragging herself around using her front limbs. That dog just wants to move, but this can cause further damage to the spine and back legs. Other illnesses may result in total limb weakness, leaving your dog completely incapable of moving around on her own. Here are a few causes of paralysis in dogs:- Degenerative myelopathy (DM)
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
- Cancerous tumors affecting the spine or brain
- Tick paralysis
- Spinal trauma
- Canine distemper
Is My Paralyzed Dog Happy?
Loss of mobility can lead to depression and further health issues for your pup, such as obesity. Before making any difficult decisions, you should consult your vet to fully understand your dog’s condition, as well as to agree on a treatment plan. Depending on the cause of paralysis, your canine may respond to rehabilitation, remain stable, or continue to lose the use of his limbs. To understand your dog’s current lifestyle and level of happiness, it can be helpful to monitor his behavior and compare it to how he acted when he was fully mobile. Ask yourself questions like:- Does my dog eat an appropriate amount?
- Is he energized or lethargic?
- Does he still show interest in playing or going for walks?
- Is he experiencing discomfort or pain?
- Does he appear alert?
- Is he acting like his “usual self,” or does he seem “off?”