DIY Dog Sling - Support Your Older Dog with a Grocery Bag Dog Sling

Homemade Dog Sling

As our dogs age, their legs may not carry them like they used to.

I always found with my dog Sasha that stairs were the worst, and she was too heavy to carry.  So instead of sleeping in my room at night as she always had, she stayed downstairs, which caused stress.

You can purchase dog slings, but I came across this video that shows you how to make a very simple one that costs you NOTHING (if you have those reusable shopping bags at home) and can save your back.

Check it out:

DIY Shopping Bag Dog Sling/Harness

You simply cut out the sides of the bag (instruction in this quick video) and then you can give your dog some support, whether the issue is with the rear legs or the front legs. 

This will also be easier on your own back especially if you are trying to navigate stairs with your dog.  This can be a dangerous scenario if your pooch is not confident on the stairs.  He/she may panic and either fall or pull you as well.

Simply hanging onto their collar is not enough.  That puts you at a bent position.  If you use some kind of harness (homemade or purchased) this will keep you upright and save your back. 

Senior Dog Moments

If you have a senior dog, there is this site that caters to older dogs to help give them an awesome retirement and let you enjoy their old age too! 

Some things are investments like ramps and other aids, but some are homemade such as the above DIY grocery bag sling.  Worth checking it out.

Get More Life Out of Your Senior Dog

Many older dogs will quickly limit their activities if they don't feel confident, which can lead to depressions. 

As the dog parents you will be aware that he/she has slowed down on their usual walks.  Get them checked out at Veterinarian and if he tells you it is simply age.  Then check out the site above for ideas and products that can help your older dog have a happy and pain free retirement.

Alter a Few Routines to Aid Your Older Dog

You may need to change a few procedures in your day, such as an extra pee break during the day, maybe change the food to a more senior formula to help with digestion or add some glucosomine for aching joints, breaking up the walks into shorter ones... 

Just like us humans, things can change as we age, so if we keep on top of the changes, then our beloved pooches can be happy, healthy and strong well into their golden years.