Walking your dog when you have a disability may seem complicated at first sight. However, we must not forget that the dog is reputed to be man’s best friend and even his most faithful companion. It is often a pillar in the life of a person with a disability.
Go for Less Energy Breeds
Some breeds have more moderate exercise needs. If walking your dog is difficult for you, it may help to avoid dog breeds that have the energy to spare. In your case, favor more home-loving breeds such as:
- The Bichon Maltese
- The Cavalier King Charles
- Poodle
- Tibetan Dogs
- The Chihuahua
These breeds are ideal because they generally have a rather calm temperament, are easily trainable and tolerate a sedentary lifestyle better. Vigilance all the same: a moderate need to exercise does not mean that your dog can do without daily walks. These are essential for development, even if it is a homebody and does not need to run for hours in the park.
Hire a Dog Sitter to Walk Your Dog
Do you already have a dog which is not very homey? Don’t panic. This is no reason to part with your most faithful companion! Even if your handicap makes it more difficult to go out for a walk, there are solutions.
If it’s impossible for you to take your furry friend out, using the services of a dog sitter to take your dog for a walk is a good solution. You will thus allow your animal to take its daily walk and to spend itself properly.
The dog walker comes to your home and takes care of exercising your pet. They take charge of your dog’s walk for one or more hours and organize the walk route beforehand. Dog walkers are, in general, enthusiasts. So, no worries about entrusting your pet to them. Then, by rubbing shoulders with your dog regularly, they may become friends and bond.
Assistance Dogs, Trained to Adapt to the Lifestyle of People With Disabilities
Assistance dogs are trained to adapt to people who are visually impaired, hearing impaired or have a physical disability by helping them in their daily life. In addition, the latter adapt well to your handicap situation. Gestures are taught to them during their training, such as:
- Walk beside the wheelchair
- Walk in front of the wheelchair to clear a path for their master
- Pulling their master’s wheelchair (over short distances, of course)
Walking your dog when you have a disability is, at first sight, not an easy thing. But, as we have seen, there are many solutions. The main thing is not to skip the weekly walk.
