Yes,<\/strong> the prescription of a wheelchair recommended by veterinarians<\/strong> is part of the treatment protocol in multiple neurological and orthopedic pathologies. Far from being a last resort, canine wheelchairs are functional rehabilitation devices recognized by modern veterinary medicine. The indication may come from different profiles within the veterinary team:<\/p>\n A study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science<\/em> (2024) concluded that dogs with paralysis that are kept active with a wheelchair have a better quality of life and less muscle atrophy than those that remain at rest. You can consult this study in PubMed Central – PMC11551849<\/a>.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\n The main clinical indications for which a veterinarian may prescribe a wheelchair are:<\/p>\n The most frequent cause of paralysis in chondrodystrophic breeds such as the Dachshund, Dachshund, Teckel or French Bulldog. The wheelchair allows mobility to be maintained while the spinal cord function recovers, acting as a support during physiotherapy. If you want to know the most frequent causes of paralysis in dogs<\/a>, we explain it in detail in our specific guide. <\/p>\n A progressive disease that mainly affects German Shepherds and large breeds. There is no cure, but the wheelchair recommended by veterinarians<\/strong> significantly extends the period of autonomous mobility and improves the animal’s well-being. <\/p>\n In cases where surgery is not feasible due to the patient’s age or condition, the rear chair relieves the load on the joint and reduces pain during ambulation.<\/p>\n Traffic accidents, falls from heights or injuries affecting the spinal cord. When neurological recovery is possible, the chair acts as a support during active rehabilitation. <\/p>\n Compression of the lumbosacral nerve roots causing progressive weakness or paralysis of the hind limb. Especially frequent in large middle-aged breeds.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”100852″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\n There are situations in which the veterinarian may not indicate the use of a wheelchair or may recommend waiting before incorporating it:<\/p>\n The American Kennel Club lists in its guide to wheelchairs for dogs<\/a> when and how to integrate these devices into the care plan.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\n Depending on the pathology and the extremities affected, the veterinarian may indicate one of two main types:<\/p>\n If your veterinarian has already recommended a chair and you want to know which model is best suited to your dog, you can see the full range of wheelchairs for dogs made in Spain<\/a> in the Mihapi store. Before purchasing any device, these are the questions that will help you make the best decision together with your veterinary team:<\/p>\n If you have questions about the adaptation process or want to know how the day to day will be, we explain everything in our guide on the day to day care with a wheelchair<\/a>. Once the veterinarian confirms the indication, the next step is to choose the right model. The most important factors are the size of the dog, the type of paralysis and whether the chair should be rear or front<\/strong>. Don’t know how much the whole process might cost? We break it down for you in our article on how much a dog wheelchair costs<\/a> and if your dog will be comfortable, we solve that doubt for you on if the dog will be happy with the chair<\/a>. Not all general veterinarians have direct experience with these devices. Specialists in neurology, orthopedics and veterinary rehabilitation are the profiles with the most training in their prescription. If your regular veterinarian does not know them in depth, asking for a referral to a specialist in veterinary physiotherapy is a valid option. <\/p>\n It depends on the diagnosis. In progressive diseases such as degenerative myelopathy, the chair becomes a permanent device. In acute processes with the possibility of recovery (such as certain herniated discs), it can be a temporary support during rehabilitation. The veterinarian is the best person to advise on the prognosis. <\/p>\n Technically yes, but it is not recommended. The choice of the type of chair (rear or front), the time of daily use and the adaptation plan should be aligned with the diagnosis. Using a chair without veterinary guidance can generate postural compensations or aggravate existing injuries. <\/p>\n Most dogs begin to move with the chair in the first few sessions, although complete adaptation may take 1 to 4 weeks. It is recommended to start with short sessions of 10-15 minutes and increase progressively. The dog’s level of motivation is the best indicator that the adaptation is going well. <\/p>\n Yes, Dachshunds, Corgi, Basset Hounds and French Bulldogs are more predisposed to herniated disc disease (IVDD). German Shepherds, Labradors and Boxers are the breeds most affected by degenerative myelopathy. In these breeds, the prescription of a wheelchair is relatively frequent in specialized veterinarians. The veterinary recommended wheelchair<\/strong> is not a whim or a minor palliative solution. It is a functional rehabilitation device backed by scientific evidence and used routinely in neurology, orthopedics and veterinary physical therapy. [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px”…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":101716,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-101715","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/101715","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=101715"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/101715\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":101742,"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/101715\/revisions\/101742"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/101716"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=101715"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=101715"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mihapi.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=101715"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
\nIn this article we explain in which cases veterinarians recommend a wheelchair for dogs, which specialists prescribe them and what questions you should ask your veterinarian before purchasing one.
\nVeterinarians recommend wheelchairs for dogs with posterior paralysis, severe dysplasia or herniated discs. Mobility support improves quality of life and prevents muscle deterioration.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”100986″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\nWhat type of veterinarian recommends a wheelchair?<\/h2>\n
\n
In which pathologies is a dog wheelchair recommended?<\/h2>\n
Herniated disc (IVDD)<\/h3>\n
Degenerative myelopathy<\/h3>\n
Severe hip dysplasia<\/h3>\n
Post-traumatic paralysis<\/h3>\n
Cauda equina syndrome<\/h3>\n
When does a veterinarian NOT recommend a wheelchair?<\/h2>\n
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Types of wheelchairs that can be prescribed by veterinarians<\/h2>\n
\n
\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=”” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column column_padding=”padding-5-percent” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color=”#E9F5FA” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”20px” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” content_layout=”default” gradient_type=”default”][nectar_single_testimonial testimonial_style=”bold” color=”Accent-Color” quote=”A veterinarian-recommended wheelchair is not the end of the road: it is the device that allows your dog to continue moving, rehabilitating and enjoying his life with dignity.”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\n5 key questions you should ask your veterinarian<\/h2>\n
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\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\nHow to choose the right wheelchair once prescribed?<\/h2>\n
\nAt Mihapi we work with a technical sizing system based on precise anatomical measurements, not on the weight of the animal. This guarantees that the saddle adapts to the real morphology of your dog, reducing the risk of chafing or incorrect adjustments.
\nIf you already have the recommendation of your veterinarian, we invite you to explore the available options: <\/p>\n\n
\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\nFrequently asked questions about wheelchairs recommended by veterinarians<\/h2>\n
Are all veterinarians familiar with dog wheelchairs?<\/h3>\n
Is the wheelchair permanent or temporary?<\/h3>\n
Can my dog use the chair without being prescribed by a veterinarian?<\/h3>\n
How long does it take a dog to adapt to a wheelchair?<\/h3>\n
Are there breeds for which veterinarians recommend the saddle more often?<\/h3>\n
\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” row_position_desktop=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” flex_gap_desktop=”10px” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”” text_direction=”default”]\nConclusion: the wheelchair as a validated clinical tool.<\/h2>\n
\nIf your veterinarian has mentioned this possibility, or if your dog shows signs of weakness or paralysis, the first step is a specialized evaluation. From there, choosing the right chair with the right measurements will make the difference between a useful device and one that generates problems.
\nIn Mihapi we manufacture wheelchairs for dogs in Spain, with technical sizing system and personalized attention. See models of wheelchairs for dogs \u2192<\/strong><\/a>
\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"