So my interest and expertise in dog stairs, dog ramps, and stools comes from a ton of experience with small dogs. My first was a teacup chihuahua, who was all of 5 pounds. As a puppy she weighed 14 oz so the breeder had shared with me that, for her safety and health, I should consider dog stairs for her furniture access. This gave her independence to come and go and it gave me ease of mind that she didn’t hurt herself. And then of course, all of these will aid an injured or elderly pet.
And one other note for this article. The links provided will introduce you to two shopping options for pricing and variety. Chances are you will need more than one set of dog stairs, dog ramp or foot stool. Options are key to ensure you find the right product to compliment your home. You are not limited to shop for the highlighted products either, the link is ‘live’ once you click through for that visit.
As in previous articles, let’s consider the various different values of stairs, ramps and stools. As you begin to explore options, these will help you narrow down the most important attributes for your needs.
- MOST IMPORTANT – Measure the space where you will be placing the stairs, ramp or foot stool. Make sure the top of the stairs work for the height of the furniture, there is ample space for the ramp or the height of the foot stool will give the assistance needed.
- QUANTITY – Unless you plan on moving one item around, and depending on your lifestyle, you will need more than one option. Stairs for beds, ramps for vehicles and foot stool(s) for couch access. Trust me my babies can navigate just about everything in the house.
- OPTIONS – materials (aluminum, hard plastic, wood, dense foam); foldable; treads; removeable covers/treads for cleaning; safety tether; portable (especially good for vehicles).
Pet Stairs
Looking at pet stairs a bit more closely, again there are a variety of designs, colors, and materials. Another point to keep in mind is the depth of the stair and its slope. There were a few models that didn’t work well for my chihuahua because they were too steep. If your pet isn’t comfortable, they won’t use them. And just like when you taught them to use the house stairs (outside or inside), this set of stairs will not come naturally. You will need to help them understand their purpose. It usually doesn’t take much because trust me they will enjoy the freedom too.
Pet Ramps
Now pet ramps have several important roles. Of course you can use a ramp instead of dog stairs if you choose, and have the space. Ramps are also generally easier for older dogs. Ramps are also also a great safety feature for the pool, even if you think they know how to exit. Pool safety is just as important to your dogs as it is for your children. And then of course if you have a larger dog and need to get them in and out of a vehicle, a ramp is a great option.
Foot Stool
You won’t typically find these in pet stores and quite honestly if it wasn’t for the internet, you might not find what you like or need in any store. Foot stools are a nicer way to give your small dog independent access to the couch or a chair or outdoor furniture. Make sure to measure the height of the stool in relation to the piece of furniture where it will go so that it truly offers a step that your dog can make. And another helpful hint….styles such as these allow you to quickly and easily re-upolster when/if your interior design changes. I have done this a few times.
Independent Dog
Our pets are part of the family and in most cases, have free reign of the house. But if size or age impair their access then there isn’t as much independence. The use of dog stairs, dog ramps and/or a foot stool will give your pup the freedom to get up and down.
For Charity’s Sake
Paw Parents are a special breed of people. While my purpose is to provide a website to help others like me to purchase their pet supplies and find unique products, there are far too may fur babies out there that are less fortunate and military personnel who could use your help.
If you are interested in making the difference in the lives of rescue animals, please visit The Animal Rescue Site for a collection of human and pet merchandise where every purchase aids in feeding rescue animals. Select an item and you’ll find out how many rescue pets that it will support. Whether you make a purchase for yourself or you’re looking to find that perfect gift for a friend or loved one, you will find lots of opportunities to show your love of animals and make a great contribution at the same time.
In addition, if you are able to make a donation (one time or ongoing), the following organizations can also use your help:
• Leashes of Valor
• Pets for Vets
• Paws for Purple Hearts
• K9’s for Warriors
• Mission K9 Rescue
New Human Training Command
Paw parenting is a lifelong committment and it would be awesome to provide product information to you for your fur baby on a long term basis. As an affiliate marketing partner to a number of sources, this information is brought to you with a hope that you will use my links within for your shopping needs. My affiliation does not increase your cost and there are some restrictions on the life of the link so each time you begin to shop, just use a current link any time you shop. Be sure to follow us on your favorite social media channel and share it with everyone you know!
Community Chat
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