1. Mobility Impairments

Examples: Paralysis (partial/full), amputations, arthritis, hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy

Support Options:

  • Dog wheelchairs or mobility carts
  • Support harnesses for stairs or potty breaks
  • Physical therapy / hydrotherapy
  • Anti-slip flooring, ramps, and orthopedic beds
  • Joint supplements or pain management medications
  • Massage and chiropractic care (veterinary-approved)

2. Neurological Disorders

Examples: Cerebellar hypoplasia, epilepsy, degenerative diseases, vestibular disease

Support Options:

  • Medication management (e.g., anticonvulsants for epilepsy)
  • Safety-proofing the home (soft corners, floor padding)
  • Consistent routines and low-stress environments
  • Feeding support (raised bowls or hand feeding if coordination is poor)
  • Gentle, guided movement activities to reduce disorientation

3. Cognitive Dysfunction (Canine Dementia)

Typically in senior dogs

Support Options:

  • Cognitive enrichment games tailored to their level
  • Routine and predictability to reduce anxiety
  • Night lights to reduce disorientation
  • Medications or supplements (e.g., Selegiline, SAM-e)
  • Interactive care (gentle touch, sniff walks, supervised exploration)

4. Chronic Illnesses

Examples: Diabetes, kidney disease, cancer, heart disease

Support Options:

  • Prescription diets and close vet monitoring
  • Timed medication routines
  • Low-impact exercise and enrichment
  • Palliative care/hospice planning for comfort
  • Training cooperative care skills for injections or treatments

5. Skin and Immune Disorders

Examples: Severe allergies, autoimmune conditions (e.g., lupus, pemphigus)

Support Options:

  • Barrier protection (e.g., booties, protective wear)
  • Environmental management (air filters, hypoallergenic bedding)
  • Topical treatments and regular vet care
  • Low-stress grooming routines
  • Nutritional support or elimination diets

6. Incontinence (Urinary or Fecal)

Often due to spinal injuries, age, or neurological issues

Support Options:

  • Dog diapers or washable belly bands
  • Scheduled potty routines
  • Sanitary grooming/hygiene routines
  • Supportive bedding and washable surfaces
  • Veterinary evaluation for medication support

7. Congenital Conditions

Examples: Cleft palate, limb deformities, hydrocephalus

Support Options:

  • Custom feeding setups (e.g., upright feeding chairs for megaesophagus)
  • Modified training methods
  • Veterinary surgical consultations if applicable
  • Support from breed-specific or disability-focused rescue groups

8. Sensory Processing Disorders / Hyperarousal

Examples: Dogs with extreme sensitivity to sound, touch, or movement, not explained by deafness/blindness

Support Options:

  • Behavior modification with a certified professional
  • Desensitization and counterconditioning
  • Body wraps or calming gear (e.g., Thundershirts)
  • Environmental management to reduce triggers
  • Anxiety-reducing supplements or medications

🛠️ General Support Tools Across Disabilities

  • Training for cooperative care & body handling
  • Adaptive gear (e.g., slings, ramps, non-slip booties)
  • Veterinary behaviorist support for medical/behavioral overlaps
  • Disability-savvy trainers using fear-free, positive methods
  • Support communities and resources (e.g., “HandicappedPets,” “Deaf Dogs Rock,” “Tripawds”)