Just
because you are dealing with a disability does not mean you can’t have a dog in
your life. Studies indicate doing so
will benefit you and the dog. There are
some things you can do to make the experience easier.
If you need help giving your dog medicine,
fluids, or shots, ask your veterinarian if he or she knows of anyone who will
make home visits. If not, contact local pet-sitters to find ones who will
assist you. Many pet-sitters are trained to perform these functions for the
sick pet for owners who cannot perform them for themselves or for owners when
they are away.
To
play with your dog, use flashlights or laser pointers. Dogs love chasing the
light, and you won't have to make a move.
An alternative is a remote control car for him to chase. He gets exercise and you do not get
over-exhausted.
If you have difficulty performing basic
functions for yourself, investigate the use of a service or assistance dog.
Assistance dogs are trained to help people with physical limitations perform
their everyday functions. Assistance dogs are accepted in public places just as
guide dogs and hearing dogs are.
Divide large bags of food into smaller containers to help with lifting and
filling dishes. If you get large dishes,
you will spend less time and energy filling them. There are dog food stands
that raise the bowls above floor so you
won’t have to bend as much when you fill them.
Walking
a dog when you are disabled can be difficult.
Consider hiring a neighborhood teen to do this or have a pet sitter come
in and walk your dog each day. Fenced-in
yards are another alternative to consider.
Having
a disability doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the companionship of a dog. It takes just a little adjusting for you both
to be happy.
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