Life-Challenged Goldens
A Message from Rochelle Lesser, School Psychologist Life is filled with challenges. Sometimes, one must overcome obstacles that occur at
birth, while others are met with adversity through accidental or aging processes. Having
worked with the disabled population for over twenty years, first as a special educator and
then school psychologist, my presence in the school system was one of champion and
protector. In turn, I endeavored to advocate for children's' inherent strengths rather
than those apparent deficiencies.
Throwaway dogs or throwaway children the
concept remains the same in a society that oftentimes strives for excellence in narrowly
defined ways. Yet, there is a Golden lesson that needs to be learned about the incredible
struggles and strengths that many must endure and that powerful light that burns
within all beings, humans and Goldens alike.
This page is dedicated to those families who share their
lives with challenged Goldens. The first special story that I learned about was that of
Lucy, a beautiful Golden girl who suffers with Spina Bifida.
Lucy has many many friends, both two and four-footed. Here is friend
Shirley leading her Golden Lucas, who is giving Lucy the ride of her life. Living in New
England's harsh cold climate, though, can create its very own unique challenges. Want to
know what happens when it snows 30 inches, and then another 10 inches? Well, for one
thing, poor little Lucy has to stay in the snow blown paths so she can pish and poop!
Find out more below about this special girl
and how her ability to meet life's challenges is actually setting an example for us
humans. Please take time to experience Lucy's story as well as that of other remarkable
Goldens. And, explore the many resources available for addressing the needs of those with
mobility and sensory challenges.
The following life-improving mobility aids have earned much trust
from professionals and dog owners alike. Please note
that the following Items only ship within the contiguous US.
Track'r Dog Bicycle
Trailers
& Jogging Kit Addition FREE SHIPPING!
The Track'r
Bicycle Trailer is a great way to maintain an active lifestyle with
your dog. If you want to get in a bike ride, but your dog isn’t up
to it, you can still take him/her along. Going to the park to give
your dog a little fun and exercise? Why not get some exercise
yourself on the trip their and back, without tiring them out along
the way? Leashing your dog to the bicycle is inherently unsafe for
dogs and owners alike. The Track’r Bicycle Trailer solves that
problem and your dog will love the ride.
The front door
on the trailer includes a zippered, mesh screen layer, and a
zippered, vinyl layer to block wind and weather. Use them in
different configurations depending on riding conditions. A
removable, washable cushion keeps dogs comfortable on long rides.
Includes two storage pockets on the sides plus a roomy mesh pocket
on the roof. Assembles quickly and easily with no tools, and folds
down for easy storage.
The trailer comes includes a strap to
connect to your dog's harness. Want to
go on a long walk or jog, but not sure your dog can make it all the
way? Convert the Track’r Trailer into a jogger with our
easy-to-install Jogging Kit. Converts from Trailer to Jogger and
back in less than one minute.
Rims are chrome coated steel (easy
release)
Zinc coated steel spokes Hubs are chrome coated steel Hitch attaches to rear axle of all
bicycles Bottom of cabin is made of durable
polyethylene One year warranty.
The dimensions
of the “cabin” on the Large Trailer are 33” x 22” x 26”. When fully
assembled, the overall trailer dimensions (including wheels and
bicycle attachment arm) are 55” x 28” x 36”. The wheel size on the
Large is 20" and it is suitable for dogs up to 115 lbs. With the
jogging kit installed, the overall dimensions are The 60" x 28 " x
40" (the handle is 40" from the ground.)
The dimensions
of the “cabin” on the Medium Trailer are 26" x 17" x 20". When fully
assembled, the overall trailer dimensions (including wheels and
bicycle attachment arm) are 46" x 23" x 28". The wheel size on the
Medium size is 16" and it is suitable for dogs up to 45 lbs. With
the jogging kit installed, the overall dimensions are 50" x 23" x
39" (the handle is 39" from the ground.)
This trailer is the result of the innovation
and studying the behavior of dogs in a bicycle trailer. The lowered
center of gravity ensures stability while the 20-inch wheels provide
a comfortable ride. The two-sectioned front window allows your dog
to stick his/her head out watching the area while correctly
positioned behind you.
Sturdy and stable frame
construction
Entry and exit through the rear
door Two section opening in front
window
with rain/dust layer Pouch and water bottle holder Bottom made of PE for increased
loading
capacity up to 120 lbs Leash hooks for two dogs Includes parking stand Easily converts to crate/tent
Can convert into a
stroller/jogger or buggy
Specifications
Wheel/Tire: 20" x 1.75 with Push Release
Rims: Aluminum alloy
Spokes and hubs: stainless steel
Cabin: 31.5" x 21" x 25.5"
Trailer width: 30.5 inch
Cover: 600D Polyester w/strong mesh windows & roof
opening
Hitch: universal attached to rear axle
Loading capacity: 120 lbs and weight of unit is 32 lbs
The DoggyRide can be used
as a
foldable crate or tent by
removing the wheels via the
quick
release and sliding
them out of the axle holder. Remove the tow bar
by then
unscrewing the quick release
screw or bolt and sliding it out
of
the tube. The cabin stands
on the four stands freely and
securely.
And, to see this great product in action, check out the
Tour de
Dog, with David Sylvester and Chiva. The goal of Tour de Dog is
to become the first canine/human best friend team to bike to and to
climb all 48 lower state highpoints. At the same time, David is
raising funds to address animal cruelty and environment destruction.
DoggyRide
Novel
Price:
$289.00
DoggyRide Novel Conversion Kits & Accessories
DoggyRide
Novel Jogger Conversion Kit The
trailer can be converted to a stroller/jogger with this kit. It is
perfect in
case walking just isn't that easy anymore for your dog. This stroller kit
allows you to take your dog with you to the park or while jogging.
It is a great solution for dog with a muscle disease or other impediments.
Your
dog enjoys the outdoors while you take your exercise. Consists of a
third wheel (12-inch), parking brake, and push bar.
Price:
$64.90
DoggyRide
Novel Buggy Conversion Kit The DoggyRide
easily becomes a buggy with this kit. Here the DoggyRide Novel
is shown as a stroller with a swivel front. This kit consists of a push bar, front swivel wheel, and
a parking brake, thus converting the DoggyRide Novel Trailer to a buggy.
Price:
$64.90
DoggyRide
Novel Dog Mat This mat has a 5 cm thickness of foam and
exactly fits into the DoggyRide Novel. The cover is washable. The
bottom is has anti-slip layer to ensure that moving around of your
dog will keep the mat in place. The top is made of fleece with gives
a soft feeling.
Price:
$19.00
DoggyRide
Novel Leash Set This sturdy leash set enables you to leash
your dog inside the
trailer. This is especially recommended for larger dogs.
Price:
$14.95
DoggyRide
Novel Extra Hitch This extra hitch part attaches
permanently to the bicycle to use for a second bicycle.
Price:
$12.00
DoggyRide
Novel Rain Cover This rain cover is a
protection cover, so you can still ride during the pouring rain. You
dog will sit inside the trailer without him or her getting wet,
yet still have
sufficient air circulation.
Price:
$19.95
DoggyRide
Novel Parking Cover Protect this beautiful trailer from wear from
the sunshine in case
you park it outside.
The interior size of this great stroller is 14.5''W x
28''L x 22.5''H. It has
a capacity up to 60 lbs. A wonderful
product brought to you by a Vermont maker of fine baby products
including strollers since 1936.
Now you can work out with your dog
on walks or jogs through the park, down the street or even a hike
through the woods. Sporty high reflective colors and safety
reflectors offer safe walks even after dark.
Easy-Fold design lets
you store your stroller when not in use. The AT3 folds in seconds
with one hand! Features include:
Parent Tray Large Storage Basket
Ergonomic One Hand
Fold Front and Rear Entry Top, Front & Rear
Ventilation Rear Wheel Shock
Absorbers Mesh windows keep out
Bugs
Waterproof Tray Large 11" Wheels Front Step for Easy
Pet Access Opens and Folds in 5
Seconds Convenient 3 Wheel
Mobility Safety Reflectors for
Nighttime Wind and Rain Cover
included
The ramp is ideal for both small and large dogs that have
difficulty getting in and out of minivans & SUV’s, climbing stairs,
or reaching beds. The Tri-Fold design makes the unit both portable
and compact for storage in small areas, taking up less space than
other ramps.
At 19.5” wide it is the widest full length dog ramp in its class
making for a stable and wide path to walk, and thus easier for
your dog to go up or down. SIZE: 70"L x 19.5"W.
Tri-Fold function makes this
the most portable & compact ramp Skid resistant walking surface Textured skid resistant surface
provides traction and sure footing Raised edges help prevent
slipping off the side Rubberized bottom grippers for
secure placement Safety tether included for
securing ramp to back of most vehicles Folds quickly and easily and
carries like a briefcase For dogs up to 200 lbs but only
weights 22 lbs
Does your big dog need help getting in and out of your
vehicle? The Up and Out Lift Harness is a simple device that will
help him or her in and out quickly and easily.
Safe lifting for both
pet and owner Fits most dogs between
50 to 90 lbs Soft, padded 600 denier
nylon fabric is gentle on the dog Sturdy web handles make
lifting easy and keeps you clean and free from dog hair A quick and lightweight
alternative to pet ramps
Watson's Bottom's Up Leash helps you help your dysplastic,
arthritic, post-surgical, or otherwise disabled dog move more
comfortably and safely. The leash works by supporting a portion
of the dogs hind legs while they walk, or attempt to go up/down
stairs. Unlike a towel under the belly, our product allows your
dog to eliminate and keeps you from having to stoop over. For
quick cleanup, remove only the padded neoprene sleeves and wash
with soap and water. The Sheepy Sleeves are soft, padded sleeves
which fit over the leg loops on the leash to add to the overall
comfort. The sleeves are washable and are made of 100% Neoprene.
This leash will not chafe your dog!
The Bottom's Up Leash is a
quality, 100% nylon, supportive rear end dog harness (dog leash)
designed to assist animals with broken bones, arthritis, hip
dysplasia, or any other skeletal or muscular problems. It allows the
animal to perform bodily functions (urinate and defecate)
unencumbered, while being supported by a person who lifts a portion
of the dog's weight at a 90-degree angle from the top of the back,
in front of the tail area. It works by taking the animal's weight
off its hind legs while you walk your dog from the rear.
Simplicity. Very simple
to put on and to take off. Quality. 2004 Dog Fancy
Magazine Dog Product of the Year Award. Comfort. Padded and will
not chafe or harm your dog. Reputation. It is
endorsed and sold by a long list of veterinarians. Dignity. Most
importantly, it gives your dog his/her dignity back!
Because the straps have a clearance in design off
of the animal's back, the pressure is distributed under the center
of its hind legs. This gives the most complete support of the rear
hips and upper rear legs. By lifting slightly on the leash, the dog
owner can control the amount of weight that is being placed on the
animal's hind legs. The dog will still be going through the walking
motion and will still be applying pressure on its legs, so the leash
acts as an effective therapeutic device.
Learn more about the creation of this wonderful
product, which grew out of an owner’s love for his dog and the need
to reduce his dog’s suffering from spinal myelopathy and arthritis.
Watch the video of Arnie with Wilson, demonstrating the use of the
Bottom's Up Leash.
This ladder is simply great for any dog you want to take
out in the water. This unique dog ladder is also an excellent choice
as a boat ramp for use with arthritic, older or overweight dogs. It
provides an easy exit, so your dog reduces the risk of seriously
straining or injuring joints.
Portable, lightweight, just 18
lbs & is a very durable dog boat ladder Easy to attach and remove from
any boat ladder (measuring 9-14" wide) UV resistant dog boat ladder Includes a universal grip that
fits most ladder designs Reduces pain & strain for dog
owners Measures 16 by 64 inches, and
folds in half for easy storage
Your dog will
find it easy for him to get out of the water and back aboard with
this unique dog boat ladder. Easy to carry, install & store this dog
boat ladder. No more struggling with a wet dog & running the risk of
back injury.
How does the Dog Boat Ladder Work Like a
Boat Ramp?
The ladder/ramp is designed to provide a ramp approach to your
watercraft attaching securely to the ladder of most any boat. The
ladder features a slip-resistant ribbed design that's safe for all
pets. The conveniently designed ramp will detach & float next to the
watercraft when the boat ladder is needed for human use.
This unique Dog Boat Ladder can be attached and removed in seconds
and includes a universal grip that fits almost all boat ladder
designs. The Dog Boat Ladder is rust and corrosion proof & cleans
easily with soap and water. It is made of the highest quality and
workmanship and built to last in all types of weather conditions.
How do I train my dog to use the Dog Boat
Ladder like a boat ramp?
Most dogs learn how to use the Dog Boat Ladder quickly, because it
is just like a ramp that conveniently extends below the surface of
the water to reach a swimming dogs feet. Dogs naturally look for a way to get out of the water once
they are done retrieving a toy, duck or completing a refreshing
swim.
Step #1
Once you have moved out to the water simply attach the ladder to
your craft and begin enticing your dog to use the ramp by placing
treats on the ladder rungs and call your dogs as he is swimming back
to the boat.
Step #2
Gradually move the placement of treats up the ladder rungs until the
only treat left is sitting just above the ramp on the edge of the
boat. Always praise your dog for using the dog boat ladder and
encourage them with verbal commands. Once your dog feels confident
using the dog boat ladder they will start using it to exit the boat
on their own with little to no training needed.