Empowering Disabled Dogs: A Workshop in Okinawa Makes Custom Wheelchairs

Imagine if your furry friend became disabled. What would you do? In Okinawa City, a unique workshop called “Agari” is dedicated to making wheelchairs for dogs, helping them live a dignified life.

A Workshop with a Mission

Agari is a small workshop run by a couple who are passionate about supporting dogs with mobility issues. They create custom wheelchairs, taking into account each dog’s condition, body structure, and lifestyle. The workshop’s name, “Agari,” means the direction in which the sun rises, symbolizing hope for dogs who want to stand and walk.

Custom Wheelchairs for a Better Life

Hideki Kuniyoshi, in charge of wheelchair production, explains, “Dogs struggle even when they can’t move their limbs, and move their limbs from various angles, so we try not to hit them.” The workshop’s wheelchairs are designed to provide comfort and support, enabling dogs to live a happy and active life despite their disabilities.

Chiropractic Care for Dogs

Agari also offers chiropractic care for dogs, which helps to loosen up their muscles and improve their posture. Yuko Kuniyoshi, a dog chiropractor, notes, “When you can’t move, you don’t move your muscles, so it’s easy to become unable to stand or walk. By loosening up, you can return to your original body and walk again, and this cycle repeats, so it leads to a body that can move until the end.”

A Success Story: O-chan’s Journey

O-chan, a regular customer at Agari, is a dog who broke both front legs and is disabled. He receives chiropractic care once a month and uses a custom wheelchair made by Hideki. His owner says, “I want him to live a long life. And because he’s so relaxed, I hope his body will loosen up a little from how stiff it is all the time and get into good condition.”

Supporting Dogs and Their Families

Yuko Kuniyoshi emphasizes, “For a dog, standing and walking is a sign of dignity. Being with family is simple but important, and we are here to support that.” Agari’s mission is to empower disabled dogs and their families, enabling them to spend quality time together and live a happy life.

Hideki Kuniyoshi concludes, “Once we introduce wheelchairs, we can spend time together with our families again. I want to spread the word.” Agari’s work is a testament to the power of compassion and innovation, bringing hope to dogs who need it most.