Don’t Jump!
Dog Ramps, Stairs Save Backs and Joints
Is your dog short-legged or long-backed? Or is he just a dog who likes to jump up on the couch a lot?
Depending on the situation, your dog might really need a set of stairs. Even if getting onto the couch or bed is simple for your dog now, that simple act might be causing a minor strain that can add up over time.
And if you’re asking your dog to make big jumps – like into trucks, onto boats or out of pools – you could be running the risk of a serious injury every time your dog makes the leap.
While some dogs are at a lower risk for joint or spinal injuries due to jumping, dogs that are long with short legs (like corgis, dachshunds and other short dogs) are at the highest risk for back and joint injuries. Dogs that are overweight are also at increased risk for these types of injuries.
Ramps and Steps Help Protect Dogs’ Backs
Pet steps are most commonly used inside the home for helping pets climb into bed, or onto their favorite chair or the couch. Some pet parents also like to pamper their dogs with a set of stairs by a window so they can check out who’s going for their morning or evening stroll around the block.
Installing a set of steps is a simple way to save wear and tear on your dogs’ spine and joints – especially if your dog is too short to handle jumping those small distances with ease.
Pet ramps can also work well indoors, but are great back-and-joint-savers for dogs of all sizes and abilities outdoors. Whether you’re asking your dog to climb out of the pool with ease or manage jumping into the bed of a tall pickup truck, a ramp is a safe way to make the job much easier.
Most types of dog ramps and stairs can be moved to wherever your dog needs them at the time, so you won’t need to buy several.
Important Things to Remember About Dog Ramps and Stairs
Ramps and stairs must be secured before use to prevent movement and slipping. If you are unable to physically latch down the ramp or stairs, consider adding non-skid padding, or even holding down the end of a ramp with your foot before your dog steps on it. Please remember – just because it looks like it’s secured doesn’t mean it will stay in place when your dog steps on it.
Teach puppies how to use ramps and stairs. Don’t just assume your dog is going to get the hang of using stairs when he no longer seems capable of jumping or when he is injured. By then, he may be so in the habit of jumping that using stairs or a ramp may be a very tough battle. Teach your dog how to use ramps and stairs at a young age to ensure his safety and success with ramps and stairs.
By installing ramps and stairs for your dog, you can spare him or her a lifetime of back or hip problems. Take the simple step of investing in pet stairs and ramps, and your dog with thank you later!
