Tierisch Anders both sells and rents wheels:
You might consider renting just to see how your dog takes to wheels.
One of my collies loved his wheels, they gave him two years of fun and adventures, he was a happy boy as he cruised along in his wheels, no doubt.
My second DM collie was a different character altogether and never really took to the wheels. I used them mostly to help him get to the vet, but nonetheless I am glad we tried.
With DM it's all about quality of life, and that is something only you can judge for your old friend.
FYI, our wheels came from Eddie's Wheels in the US. www.eddieswheels.com
These are outstanding, and they will ship worldwide. There is a lot of good information on their site, tips for DM dogs (and their people) included, well worth a look if only or that. The folks at Eddie's Wheels were extremely helpful.
But before you go that far, perhaps look into rental at first to make sure your dog agrees.
Be aware that wheels need to fit correctly, ideally should be measured for the individual and be appropriate for the dog's condition. Eddie's Wheels generally recommends variable axel carts for DM dogs.
By the way, have you tried shoes for support and protection?
Does your vet have experience with wheels? If not, I can recommend an orthopedic vet who could advise you.
Another resource that might be of interest is the Verein für Behinderte Hunde:
https://www.behinderte-hunde.ch
This is a group of owners of handicapped dogs, a great source of information and support. A group I very much respect and admire. Connecting with other owners, sharing experiences and ideas, can be a godsend.
Again, wishing you and your dog all the very best.
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The trial is a really good option. I hope you find a good solution. It is very difficult when our canine companions age and we want to still ensure they have a good quality of life.
Even though we have a large fenced garden dogs still enjoy a walk as everyday there are new smells.
Hogan is a 10 year old Golden Retriever who was diagnosed DM roughly 2 years ago. He's remained fairly stable until the last couple of weeks when he's noticeably gone downhill. He has difficulty standing without help, can't make it up stairs and falls much more frequently.
While I realize a cart can't stave off the progression of this awful disease, hopefully it can keep him mobile for a while longer.
Thanks again for the referral. It really was a godsend.
I had researched Eddie's Wheels back when we were still stateside but I like the option to rent from Tierisch-Anders.
We've tried booties on him to help with the nails but they only make him fall more frequently.
As Hogan is roughly 100 lbs, physically managing him is difficult. Plus, I've got another 2 year old golden to contend with and we live in an apartment without a yard so walks are a necessity of life (and enjoyment!) We live by the lake and he loves to swim. He has a floaty that makes it very easy for him. Unfortunately our normal 1 hour swim last week was obviously too much and he's had significantly more difficulty since.
This disease stinks.
I've been quite impressed with Tierish Anders, they are a wonderful resource.
I'm so pleased that resources for handicapped pets are finally becoming available in Switzerland; my first experience with DM was over 15 years ago and back then nothing like this existed.
More importantly, I am so happy that attitudes to handicapped pets are changing here.
Towards that end, if you and your dogs are in the mood for it, stop by the Verein Für Behinderte Hunde Open Day, Sunday 10 Sept at the Trainingplatz Reckenholz in Zürich:
https://www.behinderte-hunde.ch/handicap-day-2017
Tierish Anders has been there at past events (which is how I learned about them) and I hope will be there this year as well. Several resources for handicapped dogs will have set up information booths. There will be fun events for the dogs, and of course a chance to meet many other owners of handicapped dogs. It's a great way to swap information, ideas, support. And a lot of fun for the dogs and their people.
Everyone on two or four (or three ) legs is welcome.
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I know how tough it is watching this awful disease progress. If I learned anything going through it, it is to take things one day at a time. Enjoy today, deal with tomorrow as it comes.
Wishing you and your goldie all the very best.
While not an advocacy group, nor specifically dedicated to handicapped dogs, the good folks running Oasis des Vétérans might be a place to ask. They run a shelter dedicated to elderly dogs, and so might be more aware of what is available out your way. (Also an admirable group, much deserving of support.)
I'll ask around, but most of my experience is in central/eastern Switzerland.
So a plea to all you in the Romandie out there - do any of you know of an advocacy group across the Rostigaben?
ETA:
Of course if anyone interested, from any corner of Switzerland or beyond, happens to be in the Zürich area on 10 Sept, why not stop by the Open Day?
We use Ruffwear Webmaster harnesses for all the dogs. These have a handle on the back that makes it easy to lift and guide, good for seniors who need a hand as well as youngsters on a mountain hike.
http://www.ruffwear.com/30102-web-master-harness
Ruffwear has another harness, the double-back, that I've had my eye on for some time now. It was not available when my DM dogs were with me so I can't speak from experience, but because it has back leg loops I would think it might be a possibility as an aid/guide for a dog with weak back legs. It looks like you could attach a lead at both the back and front to help lift. If Heffalump ever needs extra help, I'll likely try this. (He is not DM, thank doG, we've done the DNA test. He's just wonky.)
http://www.ruffwear.com/Doubleback-Harness-Dog-Harness
The double back is actually a belaying harness - most of Ruffwear's products were originally designed as sports equipment. But owners of handicapped dogs soon discovered that they also are an excellent aid for our pets.
Many Ruffwear products are available on Amazon. A limited selection can be found at Meiko.
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How's your goldie doing, Jlcerock?