CLAWGS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS PAWS:
We're determined to improve the lives of as many dogs as possible, including dogs with amputated toes, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and neurological conditions, such as knuckling.
This page is dedicated to solutions that have worked for dogs with special paw needs with the hope that the same solutions can help others. Please consult with your dogs' veterinarians for their opinions regarding your dog utilizing these solutions and feel free to contact us if you're looking for a solution that's not listed.
KNUCKLING DOGS:
Knuckling is a neurological condition that causes dogs to walk on the tops of their paws instead of their pads.
Clawgs are a huge help for all dogs who struggle to grip on slick surfaces. They may also provide protection over knuckles if dogs drag paws because Clawgs' slider and front straps cover front knuckles.
Standard Clawgs' heel straps hold paws right along their paw joints' pivot line, which lets paws bend and straighten freely.
For dogs whose proprioception is really struggling and are knuckling badly, holding paws in their bent, standing position may be beneficial.
To alter Clawgs to hold paws in their standing position, you'll need two Velcro straps with hard Velcro on one side and soft Velcro on the other side, similar to what's often used as cable ties. You may need to trim one or both of the Velcro straps to lengths that suit your dog.
Slide one of the Velcro straps around the slider's top bar, as shown above.
Put the altered Clawg on knuckling paws the same way you would with standard Clawgs, but don't fasten the side straps. Then, hold the Velcro that's connected to the slider up against the upper paw while wrapping the second Velcro strap around the paw and slider attached Velcro strap - above the dew claw. Then, push the paw up to its standing position while fastening the slider attached Velcro tight, which should hold the paw in the bent, standing position.
Note that overtightening the top Velcro strap around paws my cause swelling. We recommend putting Clawgs on while dogs are most active, but removing them when dogs are inactive, if possible. Holding paws in this bent position prevents dogs from straightening their "wrists / ankles."