Pets are icons of unconditional companionship, loyalty, and comfort. Their presence alone makes life so much better, knowing they're always waiting at the doorstep on a long day. But wonderful as it may sound, sometimes they need support more than you do.
If you happen to be an owner of pets with disabilities, you know how tough it can be to take care of them. For one, they need more attention and detailed care than other pets. It's hard, but that doesn't mean they can't have a good life with you!
Pets with special needs deserve the same love and devotion as any other pet. By enhancing the quality of their lives, you're also enriching your own! Here are seven thoughtful ways to give them a healthy and happy life.
Pets can fill your empty days with joy. They can make you laugh when you want to cry and are always by your side regardless of whether you need them. But what if it's the other way around?
When this time comes, you should know what to do to make their lives more convenient, help alleviate their pain and suffering, and maybe even extend their life! For today's Perfect Petzzz blog, let's break down seven wonderful things you can do to make their lives easier (and yours, too).
Your pet might be experiencing mobility issues due to a weak or paralyzed limb. This keeps them from moving freely, which can be a huge challenge. In fact, it could even lead to poor eating habits, depression, or lethargy.
Fortunately, you can do something about that. You can get your pet a mobility device like wheelchairs, harnesses, or slings. These act as supporting legs to compensate for the fractured or lost ones. With a little practice and proper care, your pet will learn how to control its movements with the aid of the apparatus.
A disabled pet lacks something normal pets have—it's either the ability to walk, see, or hear. So they have no choice but to be more susceptible to potential environmental hazards. As the pet parent, you're responsible for providing them with a safe place to avoid accidents.
Find anything that could cause them to trip, slip, or fall, and fix or remove it for prevention. You can also get your deaf dog a secure yard, so they don't wander off and not hear you calling. When they're asleep, don't let anyone approach and surprise them. Another example is using a leash for a blind cat since they can't pick up your hand signals.
You might think your disabled pet shouldn't engage in physical activities, but that's not how it works. Of course, there are limitations, but regular exercise should always be a part of their routine. It's critical for disabled pets because it prevents health decline. They will lose their mobility and strength if you just let them sit around.
Start with low-impact exercises to avoid putting a strain on their body. Examples are short walks around the neighborhood, playing fetch, dog yoga, water therapy, and other forms of physical therapy. Start from small, easy obstacles until they feel comfortable enough to overcome them. Also, don't forget to take breaks and keep your furry friend hydrated!
Physical disabilities also affect your pet's mental well-being. When their movements are restricted, it can also cause cognitive deterioration. You don't want that to happen to your furry companion, so always engage them in mind activities.
What activities can you try? Maybe take regular walks in the park for a change of environment and stimuli. Or you can buy interactive pet toys, so that they don't get bored at home. You can also teach them new tricks or games (while considering their condition to avoid accidents).
It goes to say that caring for a disabled pet isn't going to be an easy journey. This is especially tough for a newbie pet owner; you might feel clueless or helpless about what to do. So naturally, you must regularly keep in touch with a trusted veterinarian. You need a reliable source for advice on how to overcome this challenge.
You can get by with online research, but that's only the tip of the iceberg. It is best if you can hear directly from the expert. If you notice any strange behavior or are unsure about your pet's treatment and routine, consult their vet immediately. Don't wait for an emergency to happen!
A disabled dog or cat will have difficulty cleaning and relieving themselves, especially if they can't move their limbs well. You have to assist them, so they're always clean, comfortable, and energized despite their health condition.
Learn how to give them a proper and regular bath. Pick an appropriate frequency (depends on the lifestyle), pet-safe shampoo, and water temperature (preferably warm) to ensure they're comfortable throughout. If you're unsure which product to use, consult your vet for advice.
Caring for a disabled furry friend requires a lot of patience. You might get frustrated sometimes, but imagine how tough it is for your pet to live in such a condition. It will be twice as tough for them—the agony, restrictions, discomfort, and everything else.
It will not be easy, but always choose to be patient and gentle. Even if you're taking things slowly and day by day, know that it will make a significant difference in your and your pet's lives. When things are difficult, there will also be moments of happiness, encouragement, and healing. Cherish every memory you make with them.
We hope these tips can help enrich your lovely pet's life easier and more enjoyable! Remember, just because they have a disability doesn't mean they can no longer live happily and healthily for a long time. They just need extra love and care to make it through, and it starts with you!
Meanwhile, are you a casual reader about to get a pet adoption but not confident enough with your pet parenting skills? That's fine! It's better to adopt a pet only when you're ready rather than risk their life with your lack of experience.
In that case, consider a pet alternative from Perfect Petzzz! We offer lifelike dogs and cats, big and small, that need nothing but sleep and unlimited cuddles from you. Never worry about food, water, and health bills!
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