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”)