Carts give disabled pets ability to move again
By STEPHANIE BLANCHARD
May, 2005
Editor
AMHERST, N.H., - Anyone with a disabled pet knows the emotional toll could be staggering. How to help, what to do in such a situation. Which is why Handicappedpets.com aims to make its site a complete resource.
"We want to be known as finally a place where people understand what we're going through," said Deb Winters, Vice President of Operations. "A feel good place to go when you don't know there are choices. We like to be able to help them and lead in the right direction."
Partnering with several companies, Handicappedpets.com offers an incredibly diverse range of products for both disabled and elderly animals.
"There has definitely been a need for them," Winters said of the variety of products available.
More and more people are treating pets as family members, and realizing that what used to be an accepted option, euthanasia, "is no longer the answer," she said.
Mark Robinson, founder of Handicappedpets, dedicates his company to his dog, Mercedes, and "to all of the animals who have been 'put to sleep' before their time."
Winters said she has received requests from all types of animal companions, for dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, and even a duck. "We try to accommodate whatever the need is," she said. One client, for example, had requested a custom made harness for his colt, who was born with a deformity.
"We've been told by some customers that their animals now have a new lease on life," she said. The most popular cart, Winters noted, is the Rear Wheel which is used for those with hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and arthritis. The cart is geared for animals whose front legs are strong but rear legs are unable to provide support.
Quad Chairs are available for pets who are weak in all four limbs, for those with enough strength to move their legs but not hold itself up. Harnesses are available for rear support and back support, while combo harnesses offer support for both areas. The rear harness support is the most popular in that category, Winters said.
Use of a harness can also help minimize the backstrain that may result from lifting or carrying a heavy animal. Harnesses for amputees can provide both stability and confidence for the animals wearing them, Winters said.
A very detailed measurement chart helps clients decide on which cart is correct. Custom carts are based on even tighter specifications.
"It's amazing the amount of different situations we have," Winters said. Professionals and individuals alike are excited to come across this site, she added, and discover the number of options available.
In addition, Handicapped.com offers a message board for those who wish to write about their animals and how they are doing; it serves as both a support group and forum.
Handicapped.com visits trade shows around the country to market awareness of disabled pets and what can be done to help them. In the process, Winters has noticed more veterinarians are carrying a variety of products for pets who go though surgery.
Rehab in general is becoming more popular, she said, including acupuncture, chiropractors, massage therapy and water therapy. Handicapped.com also offers splints for localized injuries that can be healed. For more information about what is available, visit online at www.handicappedpets.com.
