Dogs in Wheelchairs Enjoy the Beach

Dogs who have lost use of their back legs because of an accident or illness can use special carts to help them carry on with life as normally as they can — and even enjoy the beach! In this article, we’ll tell you some stories about these dogs in wheelchairs. It’s a beautiful picture of being happy in the face of adversity and a great lesson to us on how to live life!

Dogs in wheelchairs at La Caleta dels Gossets

The association “Bichos raros” (literally, “Misfits”), has taken it upon themselves to make dreams come true, specifically, the dream of spending a sunny day playing on the beach and splashing around in the waves. But the special thing here is that all of the dogs have mobility problems. They use wheelchairs specially fitted for their needs.

The location chosen was La Caleta dels Gossets in Alicante, Spain. It’s a beach in the Santa Pola region that allows dogs all year round. It’s the first canine beach in the area and the second in the region (the other is at El Campello). There the little guys can have a little vacation and lots of crazy fun.

The foundation in charge of these dogs relies on the generosity and donations of individuals. They don’t have a shelter. The dogs, all of which have disabilities, live in foster homes. With the support of volunteers, they can afford to take them to the beach.

In total, there have been 17 dogs who have travelled from Madrid to the canine beach at Alicante. There they enjoy beautiful day in the sun and fresh air, playing like puppies despite the wheelchair.

All the other beachgoers on the recent trip approached to congratulate the organisation on their good work. The dogs, aside from the sea and the sand, also enjoyed a bit of affection and attention.

Other dogs in wheelchairs on the beach

The Spanish program has earned its admiration and praise. Fortunately, it’s not the only one of its kind. In Peru, an organization called “Milagros Perrunos” (“Dog Miracles”) founded by Sara Morán, raises money not only to treat and feed dogs, but also to take them on  trips to the beach.

The idea is that until they can be re-homed the dogs can still enjoy life, despite being in a wheelchair. This association, found in the city of Chorrillos, has around 40 dogs who are missing hind legs or are paraplegics. Volunteers help give them what they need and, with donations, even an occasional trip to the beach.

Why adopt dogs in wheelchairs?

When a family goes to a dog shelter, they usually choose a young, healthy dog. Older, ill, or disabled dogs are almost always left to wait. If we could understand that a pet with “problems” is just as (if not more) loving and faithful, perhaps we wouldn’t dismiss the option of adopting one.

If you want to take a disabled dog home, you’ll have to learn how to take care of them. But in all other aspects it’s exactly the same as having any other pet. Any shelter you go to will be sure to have professionals to guide and help you with whatever you need. Understanding your dog well is important so you can help them with their disability.

Taking a disabled dog home might also mean you’ll need to make a few changes. For example, you might need larger open spaces so that they can turn around, or a ramp so they can get onto the patio. You’ll also need to pay particular attention to their special needs, like ongoing treatment or maintenance for the wheelchair.

Remember that disability means nothing to the dogs themselves. It’s a human concept. That’s why they’ll just be so happy to have a family, without giving a second thought to their limbs or wheels. No prejudice, no fear. Adopting a disabled dog is one of the greatest acts of love that exists.