What to Do When Your Pet Can No Longer Walk: Options for Mobility and Comfort

By Andrea Kapetan

It can be heartbreaking when your pet starts to lose mobility and struggles to walk. Seeing your furry companion in discomfort is difficult. But there are ways to help your pet stay mobile and comfortable even when they have trouble walking on their own. Here are some options to consider when your pet can no longer walk normally.

Assess the Situation

The first step is to take your pet to the veterinarian for a full exam. The vet can help determine why your pet is having mobility issues. Some common causes include arthritis, joint problems, injuries, neurological conditions, or age-related decline. Getting an accurate diagnosis will allow you to better understand the prognosis and options for helping your pet. The vet can prescribe medication for pain and inflammation. They may also recommend lab tests, X-rays, or other diagnostics.

Physical Therapy

Animal physical therapy can help pets regain strength, balance, and range of motion. A certified canine or feline rehabilitation therapist can design an individualized exercise program. This may involve stretching, range of motion exercises, use of balance equipment, therapeutic laser, massage, and other techniques. Physical therapy can help delay progression of mobility issues and keep pets active longer. It also aids recovery from injuries or surgery. Many clinics offer both inpatient and at-home therapy options.

Assistive Devices

There are various products available to help pets who struggle with walking and standing. Dog wheelchairs, harnesses, and slings allow pets to maintain mobility while reducing strain on their limbs. Booties can improve traction and protect paws. Orthopedic dog beds provide soft, supportive surfaces for resting painful joints. Ramps and stairs assist pets in climbing up into cars, beds, or furniture. Handles can aid human assistance for calming, steadying, or lifting pets. Consulting your vet on appropriate support devices for your pet’s needs is recommended.

Medications

Medications can maximize your pet’s comfort, reduce pain, support joint health, and control related conditions. Anti-inflammatories and analgesics offer pain relief. Joint supplements help cushion and protect joints. Muscle relaxants ease muscle tightness and tension. Drugs that support neurological function may also be options. Work closely with your veterinarian to find the right medications to keep your pet as comfortable as possible.

Home Care Adjustments

Making some changes at home can further support mobility. Confine your pet to one level of the house. Avoid hard floors by adding carpet runners, yoga mats or doggy socks. Place water and food bowls close by so your pet does not have to walk far. Open doors and clear pathways to make movement easier. Help your pet avoid activities like jumping on furniture. Provide ramps for access into cars or beds. Keep sessions short if you attempt to walk an unsteady pet. Create a calm, safe environment.

Euthanasia

If your pet’s quality of life is very poor and treatments are not helping, euthanasia may be an option to consider. This deeply personal decision is made between you and your vet. You may even decide to use a service like CodaPet, as they perform the service in your home, meaning your pet will remain in familiar surroundings as they pass. Important factors include if your pet is in unrelenting pain, unable to move on their own, not responding to treatment, or experiencing a poor quality of life. Euthanasia humanely ends incurable suffering so your pet can have a peaceful passing. It is a final act of love and kindness.

When a pet loses the ability to walk, there are ways to support them for more comfortable, mobile final years. Work closely with your veterinarian to accurately diagnose the issue and create a treatment plan. With some adjustments, many pets can still enjoy life despite mobility challenges. Focus on maximizing your pet's quality of life and comfort.