10 Must-Have Assistive Dog Care Products For The Elderly And Disabled

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Dogs make perfect companions for the elderly and disabled, but they require a lot of care. But, with the right dog care products, the elderly and disabled can enjoy the bond of pet ownership without making their lives more painful or difficult.

I was in my early thirties when fibromyalgia, psoriatic arthritis, and endometriosis decided to make my life a living hell. Being a mom to a tween and a toddler was chaotic enough without adding daily pain and unpredictable fatigue.

At that time we had the best dog ever. An Australian Shepherd and Border Collie mix, that was the sweetest most even-tempered animal I have ever loved. Dakota was the best. He never barked without cause and loved everyone, with the exception of the plumber who tried overcharging me. Ha Ha!

As my pain and disabilities increased, my issues of caring for Dakota began to escalate. Letting him out to go potty was never an issue until my mobility and energy took a hit. Having several indoor-only cats, a doggy door was out of the question.

With my husband traveling weekly for work, Dakota’s final years were extremely tough on me. It was also why after he passed, I swore NO MORE dogs.

Six years later, a friend who was dying from cancer shared that she wanted me have her Chihuahua. Not able to turn down my friend’s dying wish, Zeva joined our family.

With the help of some assistive pet products, I am able to care for Zeva, even when my husband and daughter are away.

Whether you are considering getting a dog or already have a furry pal, the assistive products in the post will help make your life easier and less painful!

Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission to fund my coffee drinking habit if you use these links to make a purchase. You will not be charged extra, and you’ll keep me supplied with caffeine. It’s a win for everyone. I am not a medical professional and nothing stated in this article is to be mistaken for medical advice.

Dog Bowl with Handle

Bending to fill a water and food bowl can be dangerous for someone with balance, back, or knee issues. Using a dog bowl with a handle may be able to prevent injury or falling.

Elevated Dog Bowl Stand

If lifting a dog bowl is an issue, an elevated stand may be the solution. Of course, this option is only suitable for larger dogs. See option number three for a smaller dog feeding solution.

Dog Stairs

For smaller dogs, I would recommend placing their food bowls on a low-level table and using dog stairs for them to use to reach their feeding area.

Dog stairs are also perfect for assisting your furry friend into your bed. Lifting a pet when you have physical limitations or chronic pain can be dangerous for both you and your pet.

Continuous Feeding System

Whether your dog eats and drinks on the floor or a table, using a continuous feeding system makes sure your pet has plenty to eat and drink in the case of your not being able to keep up while flaring. One of the issues I had with Dakota was constantly having to fill his water and food bowls. Using a continuous feeding and drinking system makes me feel less guilty when down a day or two with a chronic illness flare. With this system, my pets only miss out on their wet food, but won’t starve because they still have access to their dry food.

Long-Handled Dog Poop Scooper

Cleaning up after your pet doesn’t have to be a painful chore. Using a long-handled dog poop scooper makes it easy to keep your patio and backyard area clean.

There are different option to fit whatever hand pain or mobility issues you may have.

Indoor Doggy Potty Options

Whether you live in an apartment or having a doggy door isn’t an option, there are times when your pet is going to need an indoor potty option. Pain, illness, and fatigue can make it difficult to keep up with your dog’s potty schedule. Having a backup option that allows your pet to relieve themselves indoors will make life for you both less stressful.

Robotic Vacuum

Dogs are messy! They shed! I thought Zeva with her short hair would shed less than Dakota and his long hair, but I was wrong! There is hair everywhere! Sweeping and vacuuming became a problem soon after I was first diagnosed. Thankfully we now live in a time where we can clean our floors without touching a broom or vacuum. For me, a robotic vacuum is a must-have for keeping floors free of dog hair.

Rolling Pet Carrier

A rolling pet carrier makes transporting your small to a mid-size furry friend easy! No lifting or worrying about being able to carry them. Make trips to the vet and groomer safer and easier with a wheeled pet carrier.

Dog Grooming Glove

Holding a dog brush handle can be difficult for those with arthritis in their hands. For those with fibromyalgia, the motion of brushing can also trigger pain. A dog grooming glove makes it easy and less painful to keep your dog looking its best. Make grooming a part of everyday life by petting them with one of these gloves.

Assistive Dog Exercise Toys

Playing fetch with Fido is not an option for those with arthritic hands or shoulders that become inflamed with repetitive motion. Play with and give your dog the exercise they need with an assistive dog exercise toy like these various automatic fetch toys.

Final Thoughts on Assistive Dog Products for the Elderly and Disabled

I will be forever grateful to my friend who wouldn’t take no for an answer. While I thought I never wanted another dog, she knew that I needed one. Bringing a dog into our lives does require a lot of work, but with the right tools caring for them doesn’t have to make our lives more painful. Knowing what assistive dog products are available for the elderly and disabled makes it easier for them to find the perfect furry companion.