Stairway to Dog Heaven - Dog Steps

As dogs get older, their ability to get to places they found cozy is limited. It gets harder for them to jump up on sofas or beds, and, for an older dog, that’s the time of life when he needs to comfort of being off the cold floor and away from drafts.

To make your dog’s life easier, you can purchase dog stairs or steps to help him get up on the places he enjoys for a nice restful slumber.

Dog steps are also perfect for puppies, injured or sick dogs or dogs with physical ailments like arthritis, degenerative disc disease, back problems, hip dysplasia or wobbler’s syndrome. Dog steps are also good for dogs that are built with long backs and short legs as these dogs can suffer injury when jumping down from high places. These steps are excellent health care preventative tools by saving your dog from injury or further injury.

And what about you? Are you finding it harder to lift your dog? Maybe you have arthritis as well and your large dog is hard for you to lift. Instead of risking your health, a dog ramp or step can help get your dog to where he needs to go.

Typically, dog steps are cushioned ramps or steps that encourage your dog to step up or down on them to their favorite places.

Pet steps or ramps can be used to get up on furniture, up or down a small flight of stairs, into a car or truck or motor home or elsewhere. You should find a model that is easy for you to move.

Most dog stairs are lightweight cubes or sectional cubes that can be grouped together. They are typically about 2 pounds a piece and modular for easy assembly. This keeps them from being wobbly. They are usually easy to store in a regular closet or in the trunk of your car. Some dog ramps, especially those made for smaller dogs or puppies, are even made of very light weight foam. You can sometimes find used pet ramps and stairs on the internet through sites like craigslist.org.

Pet steps or ramps can be made or purchased. Many internet sites and large pet stores sell them or you can choose to build your own. If you build your own, ensure that you use items that are easily moveable for you and won’t tip over on your dog. The surface needs to be nonskid on both floors and the base that your dog will be walking over. Heavy duty outdoor or industrial carpeting can be used on the base and on the walking surface.

Whichever way you choose—homemade or store bought—you’ll be helping to keep your dog more comfortable as he ages or recuperates and will keep you from spending more money at the veterinary clinic.

Next article: Giving Your Dog the Step Up He Needs