Dog Ramps: Handy Tools that Make Your Pet's Life Easier

 

Travelling hits different when you’ve got an ageing dog, one that’s in recovery or has mobility issues. On the one side you can’t imagine going on a trip without enjoying his or her company, yet on the other side you know how difficult it can be for them to get in and out the vehicle. 

As dog owners or parents, whichever you prefer, we want the best for our furry friends so they can be their happy and healthy selves. That’s where pet supplies come in handy, and in the case of mobility and adventuring it’s sturdy dog ramps with non-slip surface that are the go-to solution. 

Is a ramp or stairs better for dogs? It depends on the case, but in general a ramp can be more helpful as it doesn’t put a strain on the joints quite like the stairs. It’s often an underrated accessory but one that should be on your list for how useful it is. Here are some benefits that shed light on this aspect. 

Support

Like it or not, our pups age same like us. Even if they’re healthy as they age, the years can change their mobility. All of a sudden those energetic walks become a burden, and jumping becomes challenging and/or painful. The dog ramps are helpful tools you can use to support your dog both outside and at home, as this kind of tool can be used for vehicle access as much as for access to Fido’s favourite spots in the house, be it the bed or the sofa.

Protection

Certain breeds and certain ages can mean trouble with joints and the development of conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia. Repetitive impact from jumping can make for wear and tear of joints, making pain worse and leading to injury. A little support from a dog ramp can provide the protection your pet needs when getting up or down the vehicle, couch or bed. 

Assistance

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with age or health problems but rather size; smaller dog breeds in the likes of Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus and Dachshunds require our assistance to climb to higher surfaces. This is where a suitable ramp can come in handy. It’s a great tool for puppies too. The dog ramp for car gives them the assistance they need to get high up on their favourite spot without you having to help out. Besides making them more independent, there’s an additional benefit here for you which is a reduction in the strain of constant lifting.

Versatility

These are tools that are designed to be lightweight and portable yet sturdy and durable so you can use them both inside and outside, on the road or at home as you see fit. Whether your pooch has to climb onto the vehicle or the grooming table, a versatile ramp makes everyday life easier for everyone. 

Shopping Considerations

With so many options of dog ramps, making the right choice can be a bit overwhelming. To count on a hassle-free experience, be sure to consider the following aspects:

Capacity

There are different designs of ramps based on the capacity of weight they’re designed to withstand. For smaller breeds, lighter and shorter ramps are more than enough, which isn’t the case with larger breeds that require something sturdier designed for 90kg or more. If you have more than one dog, consider the weight of the heavier one as the guiding point. Length-wise, usually longer ramps are better for supporting and protecting the joints as they don’t put a strain. 

Surface

Safety is an aspect of utmost importance, which is why the choice of surface is not to be overlooked either. Invest in car ramps that have a non-slip surface with a grip tape that’s textured to secure the dogs as they move up or down when using it and prevent unwanted slips and falls that could result in injuries. 

Use

Do you plan on using it only with the car? Or maybe you’d like to extend its use at home too, for the porch, deck, or sofa? You have to determine the purpose to be able to make the right choice on the design. This is especially the case with picking from the adjustable or regular design. The adjustable lets you set the ideal length based on what you use the ramp with. 

Portability

Again, how and where you plan on using the ramp can be a decisive factor, but usually you’d benefit more from a lightweight and portable design that lets you carry it and set it up easily. At the same time, these are ramps that make for easy storage. 

Cleaning

The choice of material is another essential consideration, especially when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. Waterproof finishes, rust and corrosion-resistant materials like sturdy aluminium are low in maintenance and can do with simple wipe up with a cloth to remove dirt.