The Flophouse Foam Pad from Ruff Wear is a firm, low profile, completely washable dog bed ideal for tripawds on the mend from amputation surgery.
Please read our full product review for complete details, and enjoy this demonstration video featuring Tripawds spokespup Wyatt Ray Dawg and his pack putting the Flophouse to the test in the Colorado mountains near Jerry’s Acres …
Ruff Wear Flophouse™ Foam Pad:
Perfect for post-surgery recovery, the Flophouse is a completely washable waterproof bed designed for quick drying. Multiple layers of non-crush foam gives firm support with a low 1.5 inch profile that allows easy maneuvering for new Tripawds.
[ product review | return policy ]
Tagged: bed, mattress, recovery, Ruff Wear, surgery, video
Ruff Wear has done it again! The new DoubleBack harness is a strength-rated belay harness designed for technical climbing with adventurous dogs. It provides an increased level of safety, comfort, and convenience – and as with the Web Master harness, we found it works well for assisting three legged dogs.
Ruff Wear DoubleBack:
Strength rated belay harness designed for technical climbing with dogs provides direct hip support using padded leg loops that stow in convenient zippered pocket when not being used.
[ video pending | size chart | return policy ]
Product Review at a Glance
Wags:
- Great for front-leg Tripawds
- Stays put; no slipping or spinning
- Full padded belly support
- Rear leg loops enable hip-lift and even weight dispersion
- Stow away leg loops
- Allows multi-point adjustments for a custom fit
- Rugged, durable design
- Strength-rated to 2,000lbf (8.9kN)
- Two handles, one providing direct hip support
Whimpers:
- Not ideal for rear-leg Tripawds with small or no stump
- No quick release buckles
- Narrow top handle
- Weighs more than the Web Master harness
The DoubleBack: Hind-Leg Support for Front Leg Tripawds
When we discovered the Ruff Wear Web Master Harness for our front leg Tripawd Jerry, we fell in love with it. Although it was originally intended for mountaineering dogs, the Web Master is one of the best assistive devices for three legged dogs.
The Web Master harness helps pawrents assist their tripods when they need it most, like getting into cars, navigating slippery surfaces, or lifting up off the floor. The Web Master only has one drawback; on front-leg Tripawds, the harness will periodically shift to one side, requiring an occasional adjustment. Still, we’ve always felt that it’s a small inconvenience for a great assistive harness for three legged dogs.
Earlier this year, Ruff Wear introduced the DoubleBack Harness. We heard great things about it, and couldn’t wait to test it. Pawrents of front leg Tripawds say the DoubleBack doesn’t require adjustments to stay upright. And for Tripawds with compromised hind legs, the rear leg loops give a boost by enabling simultaneous hoisting of both front and rear ends.
Ruff Wear was kind enough to send us a demo model recently, and here’s what we learned …
DoubleBack Harness Key Features
The DoubleBack harness was created for hard-core mountaineering dogs. The strength-rated durable design was intended for hoisting dogs using ropes and pulleys, and getting them into otherwise inaccessible areas.
Rated at 2,000lbf or 8.9kN, Ruff Wear wasn’t messing around when they designed this super safety harness. This is why the DoubleBack weighs a bit more than other harnessess: the fabric is heavier than the Web Master, there is fully padded belly support, and the lace-back buckles are made of anodized aluminum instead of plastic.
Wyatt Tests the DoubleBack
Why We Love It
Putting the DoubleBack on a dog can be done whether the dog is laying down or standing up. The leg loops don’t have to be used and they stow away inside a convenient zippered pocket when not in use. Getting a good fit on Wyatt didn’t take long, even without quick release buckles. Although the extra-strength straps must be “double backed” through the buckles for each use, getting the hang of it doesn’t take long, even with a squirmy dog. And they provide much stronger support for hoisting heavy dogs when necessary.
We also loved the under-belly padding. It looked comfortable when we lifted him up and down stairs, and we can appreciate how this would be beneficial for less mobile dogs. It would be wonderful if Ruff Wear could integrate this padded belly support into the Web Master harness.
Wyatt wore the harness all morning while playing fetch. The DoubleBack fit great, and no adjustments were necessary. Removal took the same amount of time as putting it on him.
Some Things to Consider
We discovered the biggest downside of the DoubleBack when we attempted to put the leg loops on Wyatt. We assumed that since he has a fair amount of stump left on his amputation side, the loops would stay put. While running around however, the loop slipped off his side with the missing leg a couple times.
After making many adjustments without success, it was an easy conclusion; the DoubleBack leg loops do not work well on a rear-leg Tripawd.
But, if a rear-leg Tripawd pawrent still wants to use the DoubleBack for its great belly padding features and ultra-durable design, the leg loops neatly pack away. However, our gut feeling is that if you’re not going to utilize the leg loops, you’re better off sticking with the lower-priced Web Master harness instead … unless of course you intend to hoist your pup into a helicopter or lower him off a cliff! 
The only other drawback to the DoubleBack we noticed was the small size of the handle on the harness. They seem to be designed more as attachment points for climbing ropes instead of actual hand grips. Those with small hands can fully grasp the handles, but larger hands may have to squeeze inside.
The Tripawds Conclusion
Ruff Wear has done it again, by creating another high quality, multi-use dog support harness. While there are many assistive devices available for handicapped dogs, no other company creates a user-friendly harness that’s rugged enough for the more active, three legged dogs of the world.
And now, for less-active front-leg Tripawds who require rear-end hip support, the DoubleBack Harness by Ruff Wear is the perfect fit. Stay tuned for upcoming demonstration video!
Please measure carefully! Girth measurements that determine proper fit for the DoubleBack are different than those for the Web Master. For dogs in between sizes, Ruff Wear recommends selecting the smaller harness for an active performance fit.
PLEASE NOTE: Ruff Wear will not ship outside the U.S. and no P.O. Boxes or military addresses are permitted. Please see this list of online retailers for international orders and review the Ruff Wear shipping and return policies for complete details.
Ruff Wear DoubleBack:
Strength rated belay harness designed for technical climbing with dogs provides direct hip support using padded leg loops that stow in convenient zippered pocket when not being used.
[ video pending | return policy ]
Tagged: amputation, DoubleBack, handicapped, harness, hip-lift, large dogs, Mobility, Ruff Wear, sling, support, three legged dogs, Web Master
Don’t let the weather slow you down! Keep tripawds warm and dry in winter weather with the K-9 Overcoat all weather dog jacket from Ruff Wear. Read on for complete review and sizing instructions.
Ruff Wear K-9 Overcoat:
For Tripawds in the coldest weather, this fleece-lined two-layer overcoat repels light moisture and wind.
[ sizing | return policy ]
When you layer up to head outdoors, protect your best friend as well with the K-9 Overcoat. Compared to their Climate Changer fleece dog sweater, the K-9 Overcoat is Ruff Wear’s most abrasion resistant coat – best for cold days with slight precipitation, or when light rain or snow is a possibility.
Designed to be warm and durable…wind and water-resistant. The recycled fleece insulating layer is enclosed in a durable recycled polyester shell, keeping body heat in, and the elements out. Auto-lock buckles on each side of the jacket provide easy on/off.
Ideal for use during any cold weather activity, the K-9 Overcoat provides warmth and comfort for tripawds in the coldest of climates. This two-layer overcoat repels light moisture and wind.
Stays-put with elastic stay-fit webbing, and provides a custom fit with auto-lock buckles. Fleece lining adds extra warmth for new Tripawds still growing in their fur. Available in Lichen Green or Red Currant and six sizes to fit dogs large and small.
K-9 Overcoat KEY FEATURES
- Abrasion-resistant outer shell resists damage from brush
- Recycled polyester outer repels rain, snow, and wind
- Recycled inner fleece layer insulates from the cold
- Easy on/off with durable quick released closures
- Elastic stay-fit webbing and Duraflex® auto-lock buckles adjust for a custom fit
- Integrated chest panel insulates the belly and keeps the coat in place
- 3M Scotchlite™ reflective trim for enhanced visibility
Product Care and Cleaning
- Secure all buckles
- Machine wash separately
- Cold water, gentle cycle
- Use mild detergent
- Do not bleach
- Hang dry
- Do not iron
- Do not dry clean
Please be sure to understand the Ruff Wear shipping and return policies prior to your purchase. See all Tripawds Gear blog Ruff Wear product reviews.
Ruff Wear K-9 Overcoat:
For Tripawds in the coldest weather, this fleece-lined two-layer overcoat repels light moisture and wind.
[ sizing | return policy ]
Tagged: apparel, jacket, Ruff Wear, weather, winter
With this ongoing discussion about car ramps in the discussion forums, we thought we would share another solution we recently discovered for assisting tripawds into and out of vehicles.
Pet Loader® is the safe way to get dogs into your car, SUV, van, truck, trailer, or camper.
Wider and more stable than a ramp, Pet Loader’s lower angle of ascent/decent and greater traction eliminates the fear man dog’s have about entering a vehicle or using a ramp. Pet Loader is lightweight and folds down to a mere 7-1/4” high for easy portability and storage.
Tripawds, elderly dogs, and handicapped pets will especially appreciate Pet Loader’s adjustable incline.
Most dogs will instinctively know how to use the Pet Loader steps as opposed to becoming familiar with using a new ramp.
With its accordion fold and built-in hand holds, Pet Loader is easy to pick up and transfer to another vehicle, or store.
Weighing only 21 pounds, Pet Loader folds to just 22” long, 18” wide and an amazingly short 7.5” high, small enough to fit in the under-the-seat compartment of many vans.
Dakota, A 90 pound Golden Retriever on the Pet Loader Mini for the small spaces and tight side entries of cross-over vehicles, the lightest Pet Loader
Pet Loader is available in three styles with various step counts. Visit PetLoader.com for complete details, order information and a demonstration video. This solution is ideal for SUVs, trucks, and other high step vehicles. An optional 5th step is available for exceptionally high trucks.
Do you have a favorite pet product you would like us to review? Would you like to write a testimonial or product review of your own? Contact Tripawds Today!
Tagged: cars, handicapped, ramp, stairs, steps, vehicle
When Jerry wrote about Xena and Her Big Dog Stroller in June of 2009, he was sharing feedback about the The Solvit HoundAbout Pet Stroller for Big Dogs from Xena and her pack.
That post has received numerous comments including this recent reply from Xena’s mom …
Xena is doing really well and I truly can’t say enough about this product. You would think I’m a salesperson for them but I’m not. This “buggy” has made such a difference in our lives. It lets Xena still get out and enjoy life and it allows us to wander a little farther from our home than just a block. Having gone through so many health issues with Xena, if anyone is in the same situation I will be happy to give you any info I have or just simply some support. Thank you all again for your well wishes.
More recently, we met Tri-Pug Maggie and admired her luxurious coach. And how could we forget Shelby’s red wagon?
So we thought we’d share this selection of dog strollers available for helping tripawds large and small get out and enjoy life …
Big Dog Strollers
Large Dog Bicycle Trailers
Cyclists with large dogs might consider these available options for taking tripawds for a ride …
The Hound Bicycle Dog Trailer available from fetchdog.com can also be easily converted to a large dog stroller with their Hound Bicycle Dog Stroller Kit.
The Extended Space Wagon from Next Day Pets can be converted into a large dog stroller using the Space Wagon Stroller Kit.
Strollers for Small Dogs
Tagged: bike trailer, cart, handicapped, large dogs, small dogs, stroller
The Whole Dog Journal has selected the Bella’s Hot/Cold Pain Relief Pack for dogs as one of their top Products That Rock – favorite dog gear of 2010.
Here is what WDJ had to say about this wonderful therapeutic product available at BellasPainRelief.com …
Bella’s Pain Relief Pack
Heat and cold therapy are vital components of any physical therapy and pain relief program. This 8 x 11-inch gel pack can be frozen (stays flexible) or heated in a microwave (only use with protective cover) to deliver the type of temperature therapy your dog’s PT or vet recommends. Elastic straps with Velcro fasteners on the washable cover help keep the pack in place, wherever it needs to be on your dog’s body.
Bella’s Pain Relief Pack – $40
Allentown, NJ
(866) 689-2679
BellasPainRelief.com
Be sure to check out our original product review for Bella’s Hot/Cold Pain Relief Pack and the demonstration video featuring Jerry. We believe this product helped relieve Jerry of pain both in his aging hips and from his partial ACL tear. It can be safely used as both a heating pad, or cold compress, and can aide in recovery after amputation to ease pain and reduce swelling.
Don’t forget to use the TRIPAWDS coupon code for 10% off the Pain Relief Pack at BellasPainRelief.com. Or, call in your order and just tell them Tripawds sent you!
PS: Read the Story of Bella and Hope to learn about the namesake for Bella’s Pain Relief products – a three legged Great Dane – and her legacy, a three legged great Dane puppy. Both were born with deformed limbs.
Tagged: Bella's, pain relief, recovery, supplies, surgery, therapeutic
Here is a brief video featuring rear leg amputee Wyatt Ray Dawg demonstrating use of the Help ‘Em Up harness from Blue Dog Designs …
The unique “hip-lift” design of this harness provides direct pelvic support where it is needed for aging or heavy dogs with hip dysplasia, arthritis or other rear leg issues. This convenient two-piece harness can be worn together or separately as needed.
Please read our full product review of the Help ‘Em Up harness for complete details and sizing instructions.
Blue Dog Designs Help ‘em Up Harness
This complete shoulder and hip harness system can benefit less mobile dogs, with a “Hip Lift” feature that allows you to safely and comfortably support the pelvis.
[ product review | return policy ]
Visit the Tripawds Gear shop for a selection of harnesses and other products for making the most of life with your three legged dog!
Tagged: Blue Dog Designs, handicapped, harness, hips, video
The Get A Grip Harness from Animal Suspension Technologies is an excellent product for those who need to provide extra support for large breed, heavy, or ailing three legged amputee dogs. Read our product review for complete details and watch this demonstration video featuring Wyatt to see the Get A Grip in use for a rear leg amputee dog.
AST Get A Grip Harness:
For deep chested, heavyweight or more physically challenged Tripawds, the AST provides superior under-belly support.
[ product review | return policy ]
The Tripawds Gear Shop has a selection of helpful support harnesses and other products recommended for making the most of life for three legged dogs. Please search the discussion forums for user testimonials, or submit your own here.
Tagged: AST, harness, large dogs, sling, support, video
Many Tripawd pawrents wonder if dog booties can help their three legged friend get around a little easier. Our experience has been that booties help Tripawds who are willing to get used to them.
Some dogs easily adapt after just a couple of short sessions wearing them, but some hate them forever and will do whatever it takes to get them off their feet. Some dogs have feet just the right size for them, and other paws are impawsible to fit.
Ruff Wear Grip Trex & Skyliner Bark’n Boots for Dogs
Demo Video | Order Now | Return Policy
Product Review at a Glance
Wags
- Durable materials, high-traction soles
- Relatively easy to put on
- Good range of sizes make them easy to fit
- Sock liners are available for secure fit and added comfort
- Single boots available or sets of four
Whimpers
- Certain dog pawss impossible to fit
- Some dogs may refuse to wear them
- Sock liners recommended for best fit and comfort
Wyatt turned out to be the ideal candidate for booties. We happened to have a pair of Ruff Wear Grip Trex dog shoes around to try out, thanks to his gal pal Codie Rae, who did not like wearing them.
To introduce Wyatt to the concept of wearing shoes, we laid him down with tons of dog treats ready. We simultaneously fed him and put the shoes on quickly, before he could run away. We were happy to see that Wyatt’s big paws easily fit into the Ruff Wear Grip Trex booties. The shoes stayed on as long as we securely fastened the Velcro ankle straps, and he wore the matching sock linerss underneath.
Bark’n Boots Demo Video
We weren’t sure if Wyatt would adapt, but after two short hikes wearing them, he walked as if he was born wearing shoes. We recommend putting the boots on your dog for a few brief sessions, before leaving them on for a long time.
We like the Ruff Wear Grip Trex Bark’n Boots because of their rugged quality and high-traction soles. As long as you fit them properly for your dog, they will stay on without a problem. Be sure to review the sizing chart below and measure carefully before you order.
The funny thing about these booties is that they actually slowed Wyatt down a little. Unlike his usual gallop pace, he slowed down enough to not pull on his leash. That was a real unexpected bonus!
Bark’n Boots are great indoors too! They provide the added traction needed by most tripawds on hardwood floors and other slippery surfaces.
We discovered this when Wyatt refused to walk across the slick floors when visiting family for Christmas. When he returned wearing his dog boots, he pranced around and played without pause.
Grip Trex and Skyliner Bark’n Boot Styles
Best of all, Ruff Wear Bark’n Boots come in two styles to meet the needs of dogs with varying needs and activity levels. The hearty tread on Grip Trex dog boots make them perfect for all terrain, all season use. The Grip Trex design is intended for hiking, and walking on steep, rough or rocky terrain to prevent paw damage. Also for traction on slippery surfaces. Their non-marking sole is safe for indoor and nautical use.
Skyliner dog boots provide ample traction and improve mobility indoors while protecting paws from pressure sores. Intended for walking on paved streets or roads where hot pavement, street chemicals or other hazards are a concern, Skyliner boots are designed for everyday use and are a great option for wet or rainy conditions. They also have a safe non-marking sole.
We like Ruff Wear’s booties out of others that we’ve tried before, but if you have a favorite brand, write to us and let us know, we’ll try to demo it here.
Size and Order Ruff Wear Bark’n Boots
Ruff Wear Grip Trex™ Bark’n Boots:
For active Tripawds needing extra traction in rain, snow or on the trail. Grip Trex boots feature an upper inspired by human shoes, and a high performance Vibram® sole. Go anywhere with Grip Trex, and get back to outdoorsy fun!
Ruff Wear Skyliner Bark’n Boots:
Skyliner boots provide everyday traction for slippery floors and paw protection from heat, cold, abrasive surfaces, road chemicals/salt, and unseen hazards. Try them on your pup, and get outdoors on a walk around the block or on the trail.
PLEASE NOTE: XXS Charcoal Skyliner Boots are currently out of stock.
Ruff Wear Bark’n Boot Liners:
We recommend Bark’n Boot Liners for both types of Ruff Wear boots. They enhance the fit, upgrade the performance, and improve the comfort. They’ll help your Ruff Wear boots stay on your Tripawds feet a much better while insulating from the cold and wicking sweat in hot weather.
Tagged: booties, boots, paws, protection, Ruff Wear, supplies, traction
Tagged: apparel, clothing, coat, fleece, jacket, surgery, sweater, warmth
Perfect for post-surgery recovery, the Flophouse is a completely washable waterproof bed designed for quick drying. Multiple layers of non-crush foam gives firm support with a low 1.5 inch profile that allows easy maneuvering for new Tripawds.
