Dr. Sharma Answers Your Questions
Meet Dr. Anya Sharma, DVM
"I see two patients in every exam room. The pet who needs medical care, and the person who's terrified of making the wrong choice."
— Dr. Anya Sharma, DVM
Specialist in Small Animal Rehabilitation & Geriatric Care
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP)
- 15+ years specializing in rehabilitation medicine
- Regular conference speaker on mobility and geriatric care
Medical Basics
When should I consider a wheelchair for my pet?
Based on my diagnostic findings over the years, I look for three categories of signs:
Requires immediate veterinary attention:
- Sudden inability to bear weight on hind legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Obvious signs of acute pain or distress
Time to explore mobility support:
- Difficulty rising but able to walk once standing
- Tiring quickly on previously manageable walks
- Avoiding activities they used to enjoy
- Dragging feet or knuckling paws
My clinical recommendation:
Don't wait for complete immobility. Early intervention prevents muscle atrophy, maintains cardiovascular health, and—critically—preserves mental well-being. I've seen too many cases where delayed intervention made adaptation significantly harder.
Will a wheelchair make my pet dependent and stop trying to walk on their own?
This is the number one concern I hear, and I completely understand the fear behind it.
The clinical reality:
A properly fitted wheelchair typically:
- Maintains existing muscle function through continued activity
- Prevents atrophy that occurs from prolonged inactivity
- Provides support during critical recovery periods
What I observe in practice:
Many partially paralyzed dogs actually regain some hind leg function with wheelchair support—because the chair keeps them active, allowing nerves and muscles the opportunity to slowly reconnect.
Think of it this way:
When humans fracture a leg, we use crutches. The crutches don't make us "forget" how to walk—they enable mobility during healing. Same principle applies here.
How do I know if my pet's condition is suitable for a wheelchair?
Based on our diagnostic findings, ideal candidates typically include pets with:
✔️ Spinal injuries or neurological conditions affecting hind limbs
✔️Severe arthritis in hips, knees, or elbows
✔️Degenerative myelopathy or similar progressive conditions
✔️Post-surgical recovery requiring temporary support
✔️Age-related weakness with maintained front leg strength
Less suitable candidates:
- Pets with severe front leg weakness (different support needed)
- Those with acute, untreated pain (address pain first)
- Pets showing no interest in activity or food (quality of life assessment needed)
My recommendation:
Schedule a comprehensive mobility assessment with your veterinarian. We need to evaluate gait, pain levels, overall health status, and—importantly—your pet's motivation to remain active.
Choosing & Fitting
As a veterinarian, what do you look for when evaluating a wheelchair?
I use what I call the 5C Assessment Framework:
1. CUSTOMIZABILITY
Your pet's body will change—weight fluctuations, muscle mass shifts, recovery progress. The wheelchair must adapt accordingly.
I look for: Multiple adjustment points for height, length, width, and harness positioning.
2. COMFORT
If it's uncomfortable, your pet will resist using it, and we lose the therapeutic benefit.
I check: Padded contact points, breathable materials, no rubbing on sensitive areas, appropriate pressure distribution.
3. CONTROL
Your pet needs to turn, stop, back up, and navigate independently. Loss of control creates anxiety.
I test: Can they maneuver in tight spaces? Can they stop when desired? Do wheels move smoothly without catching?
4. CONSTRUCTION
Weight capacity must match your pet's size, and materials should withstand daily use.
I verify: Sturdy but lightweight frame (aluminum preferred), durable wheel mechanisms, secure connection points.
5. CLEANLINESS
Pets in recovery often have accidents. Difficult maintenance leads to decreased usage.
I ensure: Washable harness components, easy disassembly for cleaning, materials that won't harbor bacteria.
How important is proper fit, really?
It's absolutely critical. This is where I see most problems in practice.
Too high:
- Pet walks on tiptoes
- Cannot achieve natural gait
- Front legs bear excessive compensatory weight
Too low:
- Pet drags, scraping paws
- Harness rides up uncomfortably
- Increased risk of friction injuries
Proper fit:
- Paws contact ground with natural foot placement
- Weight distributed appropriately
- Pet moves confidently without hesitation
My clinical protocol:
Take careful measurements following provided guidelines, but expect minor adjustments during the first week. Every pet's proportions are unique. I tell owners: "We're looking for comfortable function, not theoretical perfection."
Safety & Daily Use
What are the most common mistakes you see pet owners make?
After fifteen years, these patterns emerge consistently:
❌ MISTAKE 1: Improper initial fit
Solution: Measure carefully, check fit daily during first week, adjust as needed.
❌ MISTAKE 2: Over-reliance without breaks
Some owners keep pets in wheelchairs all day.
Solution: Use for activity periods, remove for rest. Muscles need recovery time.
❌ MISTAKE 3: Neglecting skin checks
Even excellent padding can cause friction over time.
Solution: Inspect all harness contact points daily. Address any redness immediately.
❌ MISTAKE 4: Using wheelchair as sole treatment
Solution: Integrate with veterinary supervision, appropriate pain management, physical therapy exercises, and nutritional support.
❌ MISTAKE 5: Rushing adaptation
Forcing immediate acceptance creates negative associations.
Solution: Gradual introduction with positive reinforcement. Let the pet set the pace.
How often should I reassess the fit?
Here's my recommended monitoring schedule:
FIRST WEEK: Daily inspection
- Skin condition at all contact points
- Paw placement and gait quality
- Pet's willingness to use the device
- Any signs of discomfort or resistance
WEEKS 2-4: Every three days
- Check for rubbing or pressure points
- Assess adaptation progress
- Adjust as pet gains confidence
AFTER MONTH 1: Weekly checks
- Monitor for weight changes
- Check equipment wear
- Ensure continued proper fit
🚨 Contact your veterinarian immediately if:
- Pet suddenly refuses to use wheelchair
- You notice any skin irritation or wounds
- Gait changes or appears unnatural
- Pet shows signs of pain or distress
EMOTIONAL & PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS
I feel so guilty. Am I being selfish by wanting to keep them mobile?
Let me address this directly, because I have this conversation almost daily.
First, separate two questions:
- Does your pet still want to engage with life?
(Watch for: appetite, interest in surroundings, desire for interaction) - Does their body just need support to do that?
(Physical limitation vs. loss of will to live)
If both answers are yes—then mobility support isn't selfish. It's respecting their desire to keep participating in life.
I see owners grappling with this constantly. They worry they're prolonging suffering. But here's what I observe clinically:
A body that doesn't work like it used to ≠ A spirit that's ready to quit
My role is helping you see that difference clearly, so you can make choices that honor your pet's actual quality of life, not your fear of loss.
How do I know when it's still quality of life versus just... existing?
This is the hardest question in veterinary medicine, and there's no single answer. But I can offer a framework:
Indicators of continued quality of life:
- Shows interest when you come home
- Maintains appetite (even if preferences change)
- Seeks comfort and connection
- Displays curiosity about surroundings
- Experiences more good days than bad days
Warning signs to discuss with your vet:
- Complete loss of interest in food or favorite activities
- No longer seeks interaction
- Appears anxious or distressed most of the time
- More bad days than good, consistently
Trust your knowledge of your pet. You know their personality, their quirks, what brings them joy. A mobility aid should enhance that joy, not mask suffering.
What's the typical adaptation period like?
Based on my clinical observations, adaptation usually follows three phases:
DAYS 1-3: Resistance & Uncertainty
Pet doesn't understand this strange contraption. May freeze, try to escape, or simply stand confused.
What owners feel: "This was a mistake. They hate it."
What I tell them: "Give them time. You're asking them to learn something completely new."
DAYS 4-7: Small Breakthroughs
First voluntary steps. First time walking to food bowl independently. First moment of seeming to "forget" they're wearing it.
What owners feel: Cautious hope.
What I tell them: "They're learning. Keep sessions short and positive."
WEEKS 2-4: New Normal
Pet begins showing personality in the wheelchair—attempting to play, choosing where to go, waiting by it for walks.
What owners feel: Relief and renewed connection.
What I see clinically: Integration. The wheelchair becomes a tool, not a burden.
My job isn't just prescribing devices—it's supporting both of you through this entire emotional and physical adjustment.
Clinical Case Study
From My Practice: Max's Recovery Journey
Let me share a case that illustrates what's possible with proper intervention.
Patient: Max, 13-year-old Labrador Retriever
Diagnosis: Progressive hip dysplasia + spinal arthritis
Initial presentation: Unable to stand independently, showing behavioral signs of depression
Treatment approach:
- Pain management (NSAIDs + joint supplements)
- Hydrotherapy twice weekly
- Custom wheelchair, 30-minute daily sessions
- Home physical therapy protocol
Timeline:
Week 1: Max resisted the wheelchair intensely. Could tolerate only 5 minutes. Owner called in tears: "He hates it. Did we make a mistake?"
My response: "We're asking him to trust us with something unfamiliar while his body doesn't feel good. Patience."
Week 3: Breakthrough. Max began walking toward the wheelchair voluntarily. Usage increased to 15 minutes. Owner reported: "He seems... lighter somehow."
Week 6: Max chased a tennis ball in the yard—first time in two years. Owner sent video. Even I got emotional watching it.
Month 3: Visible muscle mass improvement. Pain assessment scores decreased 40%. Max had integrated the wheelchair into his daily routine—waiting eagerly for his "walking time."
Owner's
reflection
"I thought we only had months left. Now Max participates in family life again—not a burden we care for, but a beloved member who engages with us."
Clinical
observation
The psychological benefits (renewed purpose, social engagement, sense of autonomy) were as therapeutically significant as the physical support (reduced joint stress). This is what quality-of-life medicine looks like.
Your Questions Answered
Have a specific question about your pet's mobility needs?
While I cannot provide individual medical advice without examining your pet, I welcome questions that might help other pet owners facing similar decisions.
Common topics I can address:
- General guidance on mobility aid selection
- Understanding specific diagnoses and mobility implications
- Rehabilitation exercise principles
- Adaptation strategies and troubleshooting
- Quality of life assessment frameworks
Submit your question and I'll consider addressing it in future updates to this resource.
Resources from Dr. Sharma's Practice
These are the same educational materials I provide to my own patients:
Continue Exploring
Get the Perfect Fit: Measuring Guide
Your First Week: Day-by-Day Guide
Care Guides & Real Stories
A Final Word from Dr. Sharma
"After fifteen years in rehabilitation medicine, here's what I know:
The 'right' mobility solution isn't about the most expensive device or the latest technology. It's about matching the tool to your pet's specific needs and using it as part of comprehensive care.
I see owners carrying enormous guilt over these decisions. Let me be clear: wanting to help your pet stay active and engaged is an act of love, not selfishness.
Trust your veterinarian. Trust your knowledge of your pet. And trust that adapting to their changing needs—rather than clinging to how things used to be—is one of the most compassionate things you can do.
You're not alone in this. And your pet is lucky to have someone who cares enough to seek guidance and make thoughtful choices on their behalf."
— Dr. Anya Sharma, DVM
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. All decisions regarding your pet's health should be made in consultation with a licensed veterinarian who can examine your pet and assess their individual needs.
About This Resource:
Dr. Anya Sharma is a practicing veterinarian specializing in small animal rehabilitation and geriatric care. The insights shared here are based on her clinical experience and current veterinary science. She has no financial relationship with Pei's Corner and provides this guidance solely for educational purposes.