67 – Special Needs Pets Are Not Handicapped

The inspiration for this column came from an email forwarded to me by Kim Kuykendall. A note was attached to watch the video of Lucky Loois from the website: http://almostperfectpets.blogspot.com/ .
The video is not just about a dog whose hindquarters are paralyzed, but about the care the owner provides for him and the bond that exists between the two. What's refreshing is the owner does not feel sorry for Loois, but instead, he recognizes the canine's spirit and all that is right with the dog.

Why on earth would anyone want a pet with special needs? There are plenty of animals in need of adoption who are “perfect.” It would be quite easy to have a pet euthanized if it developed a problem such as blindness, deafness, or loss of a limb. What would possess someone to bring home or keep a handicapped pet? For those of us blessed with a “less-than-whole” pet, the question is why people wouldn't want one of these special animals.

Sheila and Jason Rinks rescued Jack Jack, a kitten with a birth defect that prevented him from using his front leg. Sheila writes: “Jack Jack has taught me that there is no reason to feel sorry for these animals or fear the loss of a limb. He does not know he is missing something. He runs, jumps, climbs and plays more than most cats I've known. He holds his own against 4 large breeds dogs who could easily fit him into their mouths. He is the first animal to greet strangers when they come over, and quickly makes friends; he sings to me, and finds the fun in every mundane act. I do not pity Jack Jack, nor do I allow anyone else to. He is not different or handicapped. When people notice he has 3 legs or when we tell people he has 3 legs, they automatically feel different toward him. I immediately tell them that he is my most well adjusted animal and a fighter.”

Pets who are blind, deaf, or without use of a limb or two might be considered handicapped by some, but I agree with Sheila: these pets are not “handicapped.” The term 'handicapped' implies one is disadvantaged or disabled. As with people, nothing could be further from the truth. They only need some adjustments made so they can participate fully in life. When we provide accommodations for our special needs pets, we give them the opportunity to do almost all the things other pets do. The gifts they give us in return are nothing short of miraculous.

A blind pet will often rely on another pet to help guide its way. Placing a bell on a companion animal will help the blind pet follow along outside as well as inside the home. (I do believe animals practice compassion with each other). The cat or dog may have a heightened sense of taste, smell, and touch, so don't hesitate to use scented articles and bits of food to lay out a pathway for the pet. A little peanut butter on a toy will provide a double delight. Providing a massage for your pet is a great bonding tool as well as a way for the pet to learn to relax when he detects your scent.

Many people teach their pets to respond to hand and body cues when training. Animals communicate through body posture, so teaching a deaf pet to respond to your hand signals is natural. Get her attention first by teaching her that the beam from a flashlight means look to you for a reward. Once she connects with you visually, other behaviors can be put on cue through lure and reward. Many folks like to use sign language as the cues.

Penny Craighead shares her thoughts on caring for Peaches, her 12 year old paralyzed Peke. “After consulting with the veterinarians at UT Vet Hospital, I was told surgery was not an option. My choices: 1. have her euthanized; 2. learn to live with her disabilities. #1 was NEVER an option. Is it easy caring for a handicapped pet...No. Is it a struggle...Yes. You will need a level of understanding that will allow you to learn and interpret their language for feeding, comfort, and potty needs. It requires love, commitment, and full time dedication to caring for the one that will love you unconditionally. Is it worth it? Yes, Yes, Yes!”

Though rather pricey, there are wheelchairs and carts available for paralyzed pets in need. K-9 Carts (http://www.k9-carts.com/), DogKarts (http://dogkarts.com/), and Eddie's Wheels (http://www.eddieswheels.com/) are just a few of the companies that sell custom wheels for dogs and cats. Some companies have a rental option. There are also online sites like http://wheelsfordogs.com/content/view/2/2/ which offer plans for homemade pet wheelchairs.

Euthanasia should not be the automatic response when faced with a physically challenged pet. My own tripod dog, Dodi, sets an example for me daily, waking each day without complaint, ready for every new experience that may come his way. Take the opportunity to learn how special these animals can be. You'll find them to be extraordinary teachers of the art of living life to its fullest.