How To Reduce Stumbling In An Old Or Injured Dog
September 19, 2009
You probably already know that your older injured dog faces different kinds of mobility issues. One of these issues is stumbling. Stumbling in an elderly dog often occurs because the dog walks with less confidence than when he was young. He tends to feel his way more as he ages. And, he simply has less energy. Instead of picking up his paws he may stumble over things or hit the floor.
Preventing Stumbling
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to prevent stumbling in your senior dog and some of them involve your home.
If you have area rugs in your home it’s a good idea to make sure they are tacked down to prevent your older dog from stumbling over them, or remove them completely. Many aging dogs do stumble over loose rugs. Older dogs can also stumble over toys and other things left out by children so encourage your kids to put things away. Electrical cords, computer cords and other wires should be taped down so your elderly dog doesn’t stumble or trip over them.
If you have steps, especially low steps of an inch or two, you may want to pay attention when your elderly dog walks over them. Your dog will probably pay attention to a staircase but he may not notice a small step and he could trip.
You should also remember that as your dog gets older his eyesight may change. He may not see steps as well as he used to so plan on helping him with stairs even if he is usually quite mobile in order to prevent stumbling.
If your dog is having frequent stumbles you may want to invest in a set of booties. Booties can be expensive but they are a good investment for your dog. Get a set that has a good grip on the soles. The traction on the soles can prevent your dog from stumbling and give him added confidence when he walks.
If the stumbling continues and your dog is having weakness in his legs then you can check into dog carts and wheelchairs for dogs. These wheels allow dogs to be very mobile on their own and there won’t be anymore stumbles.
Supplements
If your dog is stumbling because of arthritis or other weakness then you may want to consider adding some supplements to your dog’s diet. There is no firm scientific proof that they work but many people swear that they do help. Glucosamine-chondroitin, shark cartilage and other supplements are claimed to help dogs with arthritis and other joint problems. Adding some of these supplements to your dog’s diet may help firm up his gait.
Stumbling is often a sign that your elderly dog is walking with less confidence and that he has less energy than he once did. There are a number of things you can do in your home to prevent stumbling. You can also help your senior dog with a few other changes, such as adding some booties or possibly adding some supplements to his diet. Think ahead and you can prevent a lot of stumbles.
Summary
Stumbling is another sign that your dog is having mobility problems. Luckily there are some good ways to prevent your older injured dog from stumbling. Remove area rugs, pick up toys, tape down cords. Think ahead and you can prevent your dog from stumbling.
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