A partially paralysed dog requires a big adjustment – for pet and owner alike.

Because there are varying degrees of paralysis, it doesn't necessarily mean the end of the road for your much-loved pet. Indeed, with the right sort of care and preparation at home, your dog can continue to lead a rich and fulfilling life.

If your dog should become paralysed, your vet will be able to offer you detailed advice on how you can both adapt to the new circumstances.
 
Needless to say, the extent of paralysis will dictate the degree to which your dog's mobility is affected. Sadly, in cases where the animal is left severely disabled, putting your dog to sleep is the most humane option.

But in some circumstances, healing or at least adapting to the situation are certainly possible. In general, the smaller the dog, the easier it is to compensate for paralysis.

Dogs that suffer spinal injuries and any subsequent loss of voluntary bladder control will require assistance with emptying the bladder. In time, however, many develop a 'reflex' bladder that empties on its own.

It is essential that your pet is kept clean and dry, and also routinely repositioned to prevent the development of skin ulcers. For this reason, it is usually suggested that paralysed tails are amputated.

Believe it or not, wheelchairs are available for animals with hind limb paralysis, permitting a welcome return of movement. In fact, thanks to such inventions, many dogs learn to jog, fetch and play as happily as they did before their injury.

For smaller dogs, inspired owners can assemble ramps for access to raised porches and other areas that were previously inaccessible to wheels.