March 27, 2008

How Far Would You Go to Help a Disabled Pet?

Our pets are indeed members of our families. That means we love them in health...and in sickness. We are not so quick anymore to "put them out" when they become seriously ill or disabled. We stand by them.

Sometimes our pets develop a bone cancer in their paw or leg that results in an amputation. Or maybe they are hit by a vehicle. The end result is the same--you made the decision to keep your pet alive as a 3-legged animal.

If you are going that route with a disabled pet that you just cannot let go, here is a book to provide support: Without Regret: A Handbook for Owners of Canine Amputees It will mean a lot down the road to know you gave it your best shot, that you did as much as you could for your faithful buddy.

MSNBC addresses advancements in physical therapy for disabled pets in Custom wheelchairs keep disabled pets moving:

A growing number of pet owners are turning to custom-built wheelchairs to restore mobility to furry friends whose legs, hips or backs don't work. The owners' goals are simple: to reward their pets' unconditional love with whatever it takes for the animals to live normally....
Veterinarian Derek Fox, a University of Missouri professor specializing in orthopedic surgery for dogs, cats and other small animals, said pets that once would have been irreversibly crippled are benefiting from a variety of advancements: improved hip and joint replacements, better physical therapy and wheelchairs.

"Even if a treatment is expensive, these are people who say they'll do anything to keep their pet moving, to keep them happy, to keep their quality of life up," he said.

Read More in: Books & Media | Cats | Dogs | Health and Safety