A dog with a sore back gives themselves away on the stairs first: a pause at the bottom, a bunny hop, a refusal to take the jump into the boot they used to take without thinking. Something that supports the spine and also gives you a handle to take weight off it turns those moments from a daily struggle into a lift, for the dog and for whoever is doing the lifting.

The brace is padded neoprene, which holds its shape against the body, keeps the area warm and can be pulled snug without cutting in. Even pressure across the lower back is the whole point, rather than a strap biting into one spot. It wraps and fastens around the midsection, reflective trim keeps an assisted evening walk visible, and the handle sits on top so you can take part of your dog's weight without bending double and hurting your own back.

• Padded neoprene wrap supporting the spine and lower back
• Lift handle for stairs, kerbs and getting into the car
• Reflective trim for darker walks
• Adjustable fastening for a snug fit
• Two sizes, L and XL
• Black, the only colour offered

Two things worth knowing. And nothing worn is a treatment for IVDD: suspected disc pain needs a vet the same day, because early rest and treatment are what protect the spinal cord.

Who it's for: Senior dogs, post-operative dogs and long-backed breeds who need help with stairs and cars while a vet-led plan does the real work.