How to Make a Supportive Dog Sling

Using a sling can help stabilize and support the hind end mobility of a pet with weakness or a pet healing from surgery (e.g., knee or hip surgery). Sometimes these slings are hard to find in pet stores, and an online order can result in a sling that arrives too late to help with post-surgical support.

The following is an inexpensive way to construct a comfortable sling for your dog. This method enables pets with hind leg and lower back mobility issues to move comfortably, and also can be helpful during post-operative rehabilitation while improving mobility and strength. The sling can help pets to move up and down stairs and ramps. Be sure to use a strong bag, such as a reusable fabric or heavy plastic grocery tote with sturdy, well-attached handles.

1) Stand the bag upright.

2) Cut the bag along the middle of each side from top to bottom.

3) Bag should be able to lie flat like this after cutting.

4) Place the bag around the dog’s lower abdomen, and gently provide support by holding the handles.