Pet strollers during healing
Pet strollers are very useful during the recovery period of a disc episode. They allow the dog a change in views. You can easily take them from room to room to be by your side so they don’t feel isolated. It is best to use a sturdy “pet” stroller with a mesh enclosure which securely closes to prevent the dog from suddenly attempting to jump out. Never leave a dog alone in a pet stroller.
Limit stroller use to indoors or on your deck during the conservative medical management phase of 8 weeks or for post-op IVDD dogs on 6 weeks of post-op rest.
Limit stroller use to indoors or on your deck during the conservative medical management phase of 8 weeks or for post-op IVDD dogs on 6 weeks of post-op rest.
⚠️Stroller Cautions
- No stroller ride outside until the dog is no longer on any medications and there is no evidence of pain whatsoever. Even then, stroller rides should only be on smooth flat surfaces. Stroller rides outside can undo healing because roads and sidewalks or other terrains are not smooth and therefore the jostling causes movement in the back which can worsen the disc episode or cause a setback. Waiting until crate rest is over for a stroll would be best.
- Never leave a dog unattended in a stroller. They are crafty, sly, and yes – talented and skilled! They can nose open the zippered mesh closure and escape. Secure the zipper handles with a twist tie. Unattended, they may decide to get rambunctious and inadvertently tip the stroller over.
- Make sure the interior of the stroller is large enough for the dog to fully and comfortably stretch his legs. Measure your dog from nose to tail and then add about 6 inches more. Compare the dimension you get with that of the stroller’s interior dimensions. Be careful and make sure you are reading interior dimensions and you are sure which of the measurements are the length, width, and height. Usually the largest dimension is the height not length.
👍🏽Stroller Positives
- It may be easier for us to lift them in and out of.
- The dog may also accept the environment better than a traditional wire crate.
- It is more convenient for moving the dog easily from room to room.
- It can also help to prevent boredom by wheeling the dog up to a window or the couch or chair where they feel closer to us and we can slip our arm in.
- Many dogs like being up high to see all around the house.
Other considerations.
- For in home use, there is no need to spend a lot of money on a stroller as you might if intending to use after graduation on rugged outdoor terrain.
Dodgerslist members discussion/review of pet strollers: http://dodgerslist.boards.net/thread/3017/dog-strollers-recovery-suites