When your dog loses mobility — whether due to injury, age, or illness — you’re suddenly faced with fast decisions. One of the biggest?
"Should I rent or buy a dog wheelchair?"
On the surface, renting seems like the smart move: low upfront cost, flexibility, no long-term commitment. But in the UK, the reality is a bit more nuanced.
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of dog wheelchair rental vs. purchase, explore real price comparisons in 2025, and give you non-obvious insights to help you decide what’s best for your dog and your wallet.
First: Does My Dog Even Need a Wheelchair?
Before you spend a single pound, be sure a wheelchair is actually the right next step. Not all mobility problems require wheels — but when they do, acting early can make a huge difference in recovery.
Read our guide: Dog Wheelchairs in the UK: Does Your Dog Really Need One (and Where to Buy It)
🇬🇧 Renting a Dog Wheelchair in the UK (2025 Reality Check)
There are a handful of UK-based services that rent out dog wheelchairs, usually charging by the week or month. Prices range from:
-
£25–£50 per week
-
£80–£150 per month
But before you jump in, here are important things to consider:
Limited Availability & Sizing
Many rental programs stock only a few sizes — especially for small dogs. If your dog needs an XS or custom fit, you may have to wait weeks.
Hygiene & Wear
You’re getting a used product. While most providers sanitize thoroughly, soft parts may be worn and adjustments could be less reliable.
No Custom Fitting
Rental carts are often fixed or only slightly adjustable. A poor fit can lead to pressure sores, bad posture, and even further injury.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, proper wheelchair fit is crucial to avoid complications like spinal strain or skin breakdown.
Minimum Rental Periods
Some services require a minimum 4-week rental, even if your dog only needs it short-term.
Let’s Do the Math
Say you rent a cart for 6 weeks at £40/week:
That’s £240 — and you return the wheelchair at the end. No long-term asset, no resale value.
Compare that to buying a quality, vet-approved wheelchair — like the Furria Small Dog Wheelchair — for £106 (as of July 2025).
You own it. You adjust it. You can reuse, resell, or donate it when no longer needed.
When Renting Makes Sense
Let’s be fair — there are situations where renting might be the smarter option:
-
Very short-term use (e.g., post-surgery rehab for 2–4 weeks)
-
Testing if a dog tolerates a wheelchair before investing
-
Your vet already offers rentals on-site
-
Large breeds with rapid size changes (puppies, muscle-wasting cases)
Why Buying Is Often Better (Especially in the UK)
Here’s why purchase is the preferred option for most UK dog owners:
No Delays or Waiting Lists
You can order online today and receive it within days — especially from UK-based stores like Furria.
Full Adjustability
Our Furria wheelchair adjusts in height, width, and length. One cart fits different body shapes — ideal for growing or healing dogs.
You’re in Control
No stress about return dates, damage penalties, or re-renting later if symptoms return.
It’s Reusable or Resellable
Finished with it? Sell it on pet mobility forums, donate it to a rescue, or keep it “just in case.” A rental gives you none of that.
Canine Arthritis Management emphasizes long-term support and consistency in mobility aids — something rentals often disrupt.
Not Sure if Your Dog Will Adapt?
It’s a common fear: “What if I buy it and my dog refuses to use it?”
Truth is, most dogs adapt within 2–5 days. They’re resilient. They want to move.
Still nervous? Read this story: Can a Dog Live a Happy Life in a Wheelchair?
You’ll be amazed at what’s possible with a little patience — and the right wheels.
3 Not-So-Obvious Questions to Ask Yourself Before Renting or Buying
-
Will my dog’s condition improve or decline?
If progressive (like degenerative myelopathy), a longer-term solution (buying) makes more sense. -
Is my dog small or hard to fit?
Small dogs (under 10 kg) often don’t have great rental options — buying offers better comfort. -
Will I need to travel with the wheelchair?
Rental models are sometimes bulkier or harder to disassemble. Bought ones, like Furria’s, are designed with portability in mind.
Final Verdict: Buy or Rent?
| Scenario | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Trial use / rehab < 4 weeks | Consider renting (if available nearby) |
| Chronic condition / senior dog | Buy — it’s more cost-effective |
| Small breed dog | Buy — rentals often don’t fit well |
| Want clean, new equipment | Buy — control and hygiene matter |
| Need flexibility / reuse | Buy — better long-term ROI |
Our Mission at Furria
We started Furria because we believe mobility should be accessible. Our wheelchairs are lightweight, adjustable, affordable, and delivered across the UK without delay, customs, or headaches.
If you’re still unsure — message us in chat. We’ll help you measure, choose, and make the best decision for your dog.
Browse the Furria Small Dog Wheelchair
Visit our homepage
Read more in our expert blog
Because when your dog wants to walk again — we’re here to help them roll 💛
