For some animal companions jumping up or down from furniture and in and out of vehicles can be rough on their joints.  And if your pet is sick, elderly, overweight, plagued with arthritis, or recovering from an injury navigating stairs and steps can be particularly challenging.  It is especially difficult for dogs and cats to bring their back legs up to another level which can result in further pain and injury.

Does your pet have limited mobility for any reason?  A pet ramp such as a heavy-duty Aluminum Ramp or the Pet Step II Ramp can make getting from place to place a lot more comfortable and safer for your furry family members.  The gradual slope of the ramp allows your pet to walk slowly at his own pace and can be especially helpful in many situations.

How Does Your Pet Size Up?
For smaller breeds of dogs getting up and down from certain places in the home can be impossible without assistance from their owners.  The same goes for breeds with long spines and/or short legs.  A pet ramp like the Pet Step II Half Step Ramp can help your little guy get to where he wants to go.

Jump Start (or Stop!)
Although jumping can put tremendous stress on a dog's joints and spine that doesn't seem to stop them from doing it.  However a good pet ramp such as the Pet Step II Half Step Ramp can reduce your pet's need to jump up or down from furniture. This is particularly important for dogs with joint problems such as hip dysplasia or arthritis as well as those who are recovering from an injury.

Golden Oldies
Pet ramps can be especially helpful for canine and feline senior citizens who may not be as flexible as they used to be. Years of wear and tear on bones and joints can break down cartilage and can make jumping, stepping up, and getting up and down more difficult. A pet ramp can give back your elderly pet the freedom and independence to go where he wants. And that's particularly crucial if that involves cuddling with his favorite human on a bed or sofa!

Joint Resolution
Joint problems can affect pets at any age. Arthritis and degenerative joint disease are generally associated with old age but young or active animals may develop joint discomfort due to disease injury or inherited conditions such as canine hip dysplasia. Giant breeds such as Great Danes and Mastiffs as well as working dogs and small breeds are subject to joint injuries during their growth phase or times of extreme activity. Pets who suffer from joint problems will greatly benefit from strategically placed pet ramps including the Pet Step II Half Step Ramp which can prevent injury and limit further damage.

Rolling Right Along
Do you take your dog on frequent car trips? Whether it's a quick trip to the store or a longer weekend adventure a Pet Step II Full Step Ramp can start the journey off on the right paw. Slow-motion studies have shown that dogs who jump into and out of an SUV-type vehicle strike their chests or back legs about 60% of the time which is about as painful and harmful as a person jumping from the kitchen table on to their hands. 

C'mon In -- the Water's Fine!
A pet ramp can also be used to help pets get in and out of swimming pools and is great in assisting pets in their travels from boat to dock and shore. And while you're protecting your companion's bones and joints don't forget basic water safety. Make sure all pets wear flotation devices on boats and do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool. If your dog has never participated in water sports please note that not all canines are good swimmers and should be introduced to this activity gradually.

The Skamper Ramp is the perfect escape ramp in the event should your pet fall into your pool or spa.  Pets can scamper up the perforated ramp to safety!  Simply keep the ramp tied to the side of your pool (hardware and rope included).  The lightweight ribbed plastic ramp floats atop the water until needed.  For convenience the Skamper Ramp simply flips out of the water when not needed.

Teaching an Old (or Young) Dog a New Trick
Most pets take to using their new ramp in no time.  Some however may take a bit longer to become accustomed to it.  If your pet falls into the latter category you can easily teach him what to do.  Simply put the ramp flat on the ground and walk your dog over it; then follow up by offering him his favorite treat upon completion.  It is recommended that you repeat this several times until he is comfortable. Next raise the ramp take your dog by the collar and lead him over the ramp; reward and repeat.  The treats will help of course-and so will showering him with praise when he gets the hang of it!