walking aids for dogs. What do you feel about this?

[ginger899]

I watched a TV program a few weeks back about dogs who were finding it hard to walk, because of old injuries, or paralysis. These dogs were well otherwise, and happy. Not in pain. Their owners got them wheelie-aids, and the dogs' lives were suddenly transformed. From dragging their back legs around or not being able to walk at all to 'running' about having such fun!
At first I was sceptical, and wondered why these dogs hadn't just been put to sleep, as their disabilities were so bad. Then I looked at the results and saw they were very happy dogs. I do not know what I would choose to do if (God forbid!) my dog was afflicted. I wondered if anyone had any experience of this, or feelings about these walking aids.

[ginger899]

Yes that's true. At first I wondered if these owners were keeping their dogs alive at all costs, because they couldn't bear to be parted from them, and projecting their own human ideas of what was right on to their dogs. But I did see the dogs seemed ok, and enjoying a new start. It didn't take one of them too long to get used to the wheelie-contraption. It was obviously happy though, to be rushing about again. Mind you it was a Jack Russell, and they're up for anything!!
True, dogs do live for now, and what's real, and what's happening NOW.  I have learned a lot from my dog. She has shown me how to be more real, and a lot less self-pitying.

[arachnaphob]

I wouldn't even question it.  If my dog needed an aid, I'd do it. ( As long as there was no pain or discomfort.)  Don't get me wrong. I'm a realist. If there is no hope, then you do what's right for the animal, not what makes you feel better.

Chirley

[Jaybay]

I've seen stories on TV about dogs with these devices and they look well and happy.  All the owners said it took some time for the dogs to get used to, but ultimately it was worth it.  I think much depends on the injury and the individual dog's personality.  Dogs are also more accepting of their limitations than humans.  They don't spend time looking back at what "was".  They just deal with what is in front of them.  Wish I could do that!