Leashe/harness for the Back End of the dog?

[Abby'sMom]

My Cody is going to be 13 in May. He has a great deal of difficulty getting up on his legs because his back legs are very stiff from arthritis. I saw a harness in a pet catalog for the rear end of the dog - something to hook a leash to for walks to help him stay standing up. Have you ever seen those? Do any of you use them? I am a bit concerned because of his spleen, but once he is up it really wouldn't be any pressure on his belly, just something to help steady him when walking, etc. Do you think it would be a good investment? It was like $40+. dog9

[sap4goldens]

If it works, and allows him the mobility to be where he wants to be...

And I'm sure, like any Golden, that's anywhere you are...

Then I think it would be worth it's weight in gold...

Lysle http://www.topgoldenretrieversites.net/forums/images/smilies/dogbark.gif http://www.topgoldenretrieversites.net/forums/images/smilies/reddogx.gif

[JsMom]

I never heard of a harness strictly for the back end. I did plenty of lifts and scoops during Jake's last year with us. I just straddled him from behind and gently lifted him from the rib cage. (It's wonderful for YOUR back!) :laugh2 We did have a regular harness which helped steady him down steps and if the deck was icy.

Helpful hint - invest in a couple of runners for your kitchen floor - it will take some coaxing to get your dog to use them but the light bulb does turn on and it's easier for them to walk with some traction.

If the back end is really bad you may want to forgo or really shorten your walks with your dog. We stopped walking around the block entirely when Jake was 14 1/2. He made his rounds in the backyard after that point - he just wasn't up to it anymore.

Best wishes - tell us how you do with that new harness!

[waterabbit]

Our Prince used a back end harness for several months before we had to let him go. It worked well, and made it much easier for him to get around. You do have to work with it a little bit to get the hang of it. :)

[CaynCher]

I have never used one but I have seen them in the Wholesale Catalogues. Handicapped pets website has a section where people talk about using the various harnesses for front & rear mobility.

:dogbark :reddogx