A STEM project that started with a problem — and now needs a community to help solve it.
At Valley Catholic Middle School, the Eighth Grade Dog Mobility Project brings together engineering, design thinking, and compassion to address a real and meaningful challenge: restoring comfort, independence, and mobility for dogs who can no longer move easily on their own. Through this student-driven, service-learning initiative, students design and build custom mobility devices, including carts and prosthetic supports, tailored to the unique needs of individual dogs.
We are proud to partner with Portland Dachshund Rescue, an organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dachshunds and dachshund mixes. Because of their long backs and unique anatomy, many dachshunds experience mobility challenges due to injury, age, or congenital conditions. This partnership ensures students are not designing in the abstract, but responding to the real needs of real dogs.
Throughout the project, students engage in every phase of the design process. They research canine anatomy and biomechanics, prototype and test multiple iterations, refine designs for safety and comfort, and learn firsthand the responsibility that comes with ethical, human-centered and animal-centered design. The result is more than a mobility device. It is a powerful lesson in empathy, problem solving, and service to others.
How You Can Help
Projects like this are only possible with community support. We are seeking donations of materials from businesses, organizations, and community members to help bring these student designs to life. Items such as wheels, hardware, straps, padding, PVC, plastics, and light fabrication supplies make an immediate difference.
Supplies may be dropped off at the VCMS Front Office during school hours by February 20.
If your organization has larger quantities of materials, limited pick-up may be arranged depending on location and availability.
Mobility Device – Materials and Supply Needs
A community-supported prosthetic and mobility build for a small dog
Many items may be donated new or gently used. Recycled materials are welcomed whenever safe and appropriate.
Structural and Frame Components
Materials that form the supporting frame:
- PVC pipe (½”–1½” diameter) — various lengths
- PVC connectors (1” diameter), corner and 90° connectors
- Square aluminum tubing, any usable lengths
- Metal rods or axles (6–8 in, 5/16”–½” diameter)
- HDPE or reinforced plastic board (approx. 1″ × 6″ × 12″)
- Plywood sheet (½” thick or greater, minimum 2’ × 2’)
Wheels and Motion Components
Durable, stable, non-slip wheels for a ~21 lb dog:
- Rubber or high-grip wheels (2 in to 8 in)
- Ball bearings (½”, quantity 2)
- Wheel connectors or axle mounts
Harnesses, Straps, and Fasteners
All contact points must be adjustable and comfortable:
- Small or medium dog harnesses (new or gently used)
- Backpack straps with adjusters
- Heavy-duty Velcro straps
- Side-release buckles and strap adjusters
- Bungee cords or elastic resistance bands
Padding and Comfort Materials
To prevent chafing and pressure points:
- Medical-grade foam padding
- Memory foam or polyethylene foam
- Microfiber towels or soft blankets
- Neoprene fabric
Fabric and Protective Materials
Durable and non-abrasive:
- Nylon webbing or ripstop fabric
- Waterproof or raincoat material
- Cotton blend or bamboo fleece
Fabrication and Build Supplies
For custom components and secure assembly:
- 3D printing filament (TPU)
- Moldable plastic sheets
- Hot glue gun and refills
- Non-toxic spray paint (mint green, black)
Recycled and Repurposed Items (Highly Encouraged)
Help reduce cost and support sustainability:
- Old backpacks (buckles and straps)
- Used wheel toys
- Toy car or stroller wheels
- Old dog harnesses
- Plastic rings or key rings
- Bicycle or scooter components
Every contribution, large or small, helps students turn care into action. Donated materials will be used thoughtfully and safely to build a custom mobility device that gives a deserving dog greater comfort, independence, and quality of life.
Thank you for being part of this meaningful work and for supporting our students as they use innovation, empathy, and service to make a difference.
