Are dog shoes necessary? Many pet owners buy dog shoes for their pets, believing it is essential as it protects their pet’s paws. Others question the necessity. Some feel that dog shoes are simply fashion accessories that owners impose on their dogs. For disabled dogs, this question becomes even more critical.
For dogs without mobility issues, the need for dog shoes may depend on their living environment. The weather or terrain might make dog shoes necessary. Suppose the weather is extremely cold or the walking surfaces are slippery or muddy. Dog shoes may be sensible.
It may be even more necessary for disabled pets due to the challenges they have to live with daily. Below are some of the benefits of dog shoes for disabled dogs.
- It helps prevent slips and falls – Dog shoes typically have non-slip soles, giving disabled dogs added stability while standing as it keeps their legs from slipping apart.
- It improves traction – Non-slip dog shoes gives disabled dogs a better hold on the walking surface, especially when they are in a dog wheelchair.
- It gives added leg support – Many dog shoes wrap around and support the paw joint area.
- It prevents injuries – The best thing about dog shoes for disabled dogs is it protects the paws from injuries. Most dogs with mobility issues tend to drag their weak limbs behind them, damaging the nails and causing scrapes and cuts on the skin.
- It helps with healing – Dog shoes can benefit dogs undergoing physical therapy by providing added support during treatment.
Choosing the Right Dog Shoes
Not all dog shoes are created equal, however, just like pet wheelchairs. In choosing the right dog shoes for your disabled dog, check the following:
- Comfort – Make sure the material is comfortable. We wouldn’t want something that’s supposed to prevent scrapes cause more of it. Ensure it fits your dog snugly but not too tight, which can impede or cut off circulation. This is a bad thing.
- Non-slip – Check that the paw area does not slip easily. Test in on a smooth surface that would typically make items slide on the surface. Make sure that it grips.
- Support – Look for dog shoes that prevent scrapes and help support their legs. Most dog shoes keep the paw joint area, but others are also designed to support the mid-leg area.
- Waterproof – it may also help to look for dog shoes made of waterproof material so that you won’t have a problem if your dog walks on wet surfaces.
These are just some advantages of dog shoes, especially for disabled dogs. We hope this helps you better care for your disabled best friend.