Hi! My girl uses wheels and they have been great! We used Eddie's Wheels, but their website seems to be down at the moment! If you are on Facebook, they also have a Facebook page. They make custom wheelchairs based on your dog's measurements. They are a little more expensive, but I did research on all of the different companies out there (and there are a lot!!!) and I found Eddie's Wheels to be the best.
My dog has a different situation because she has a genetic disorder in her spine. I'm not sure how to go about making sure your little girl is healed from her injury. I would think though that she should probably be kept still as much as possible. It is a spinal injury and they can be very touchy. I would ask your vet about this or get another opinion if possible. Then, after time, slowly ease into using a cart.
Your baby no longer has control of her bladder or bowels, so you will need to learn how to express. The bowels aren't a big issue, because it will come out on its own and will not cause any health problems. But you do need to express her bladder at least every 8 hours or so, and more often while she is on medications. We express our girl three times a day. It is a steep learning curve to figure out how to do it, and do it well. Your vet should be able to show you how to properly express her. If you need help, let me know! This is extremely important because infections happen quickly in the bladder if urine is staying there, and they can spiral out of control very fast and be very dangerous. She is peeing now, because her bladder is stretching and overflowing. It is important to express at regular intervals to make sure the bladder doesn't stretch out. Your vet may also prescribe a medication that helps keep the bladder from stretching while you are learning to express. I can find out what medication we used if you want me to!
This is probably overwhelming and it sounds like a lot of work but in the end, it's NOT! It's just an adjustment. For us, it's just a normal part of life! Two of our dogs go outside to pee, and one pees in the toilet now lol! She is just as happy and playful as ever. You are wonderful for still trying to give your baby a great life, and your vet is great for not giving up on her. I am so sorry you have to go through this, and I just want to tell you that it does get better, as long as your baby is not in pain.
Talk to your vet about if it's best to keep her still for now. She may need to be put on crate rest until she is healed up. But like I said, I don't know about her type of injury.
__________________ Lindsey and Layla, Lucy, and Kash |