Valentino modeling one of his belly bands
It’s a topic we don’t often discuss – at least not in public! But for a variety of reasons, animals can become incontinent. Sometimes incontinence sets in as animals age, or there may be a physical/medical reason for the leakage. No matter the reason, and as understanding as we are regarding the circumstances, its not fun cleaning up and over time odor can become a problem.
I’m speaking from first-hand knowledge. My boy-dog, Valentino, has been living with a degenerative neurological condition for more than five years. It started slowly at about age six, and now at almost 12 years old he is still a very happy boy but has lost nearly all control of his rear quarters.
After experimenting with natural treatments (chiropractic, acupuncture, homeopathic remedies for increased bladder control, etc.) there came a time when we needed to recognize this as a stage in his journey and simply accept it. We started with doggy diapers. They were a step in the right direction, but it was a challenge to keep them on. Valentino had very little muscle mass left in his hips, thighs, and lower back by the time his incontinence began, so there wasn’t much for the diaper to hang on to. His dignity didn’t deal with it very well either – “a diaper, really mom? Okay but promise no one will see me in it but you!”
Styles of belly bands
Thankfully while flipping through an animal product catalog I learned about “belly bands” for boy dogs. They have been a lifesaver. Valentino doesn’t even mind going out in public now, especially with his very manly camouflage band on. He’s such a tough guy! There are a couple of styles of which I am familiar, and if you find yourself in need of trying a belly band you may find pros and cons for your own particular needs and the breed of the dog. I found both of these styles (pictured) in animal product catalogs, and now my local boutique pet store is carrying one of the styles as well. You should be able to find a belly band that fits your needs easily.
My needs have focused on a small-breed male dog, so if you have a similar solution for females and/or larger breeds, please leave a comment for the benefit of all!
Photo: Earlier in Valentino’s journey the band pictured on the left by Susan Lanci Designs was perfect as it is self-contained with an absorbent swatch of fabric sewn in.
Later, he needed more protection and we found the Kennel Komforts band with elasticized sides in which we lay in our own absorbent pad.
