Dog Ramps – Homemade vs. Pre-made

By Admin - Deanna, on September 8th, 2007 |

If you have a dog that is in need of a little help climbing up you can always install a ramp or stairs for them. Now you have two choices, you can make a ramp or buy one.

Making one isn’t very difficult as the instructions below from Handicapped Pets show.

Ramp Depending on distance and size of dog, use 1 x 1 or 2 x 1 supports along sides of ply board or use 1/8 or 1/4 inch ply board. Measure distance you will need, ie. if your dog is strong the angle can be quite short.

One 1 x 1 (or 1 x 2) on each side, and along top and bottom edge – nail or screw in place Length of indoor/outdoor carpet or carpet grass which will cover the breadth of the ply board and wrap along the 1 x 1s nail or staple gun in place OR a Carpet Runner which exceeds length of ramp by at least foot on each end.

BEVEL THE EDGES OF THE BOTTOM 1 x 1s at an angle that will accommodate the ground, if you are so inclined. The top 1 x 1s can be steadied with a good bottom bevel and the carpet runner over the top, or for the bigger dog, get an L bracket and bend to the required angle. Affix a rubberized surface to the L bracket to prevent slippage.

Or you can check out the selection of ramps and stairs that are ready to use.

The ‘Basic Pet Ramp‘ is a free standing indoor pet ramp is designed to give your dogÂ full access to your furniture without jumping or climbing.	The Folding Pet Ramp is Easy open, easy close, lightweight, weighs 18.5 pounds, 70 inches long (35 inches folded), 18 inches wide with raised edges. Holds up to 500 lbs	Wider and more stable than a ramp. Pet Loaderâ€™sâ„¢ lower angle of ascent/decent and greater traction eliminates your dogâ€™s fear of entering your vehicle. Yet Pet Loaderâ„¢ is light in weight and folds down to a mere 7-1/4â€ for easy portability and storage. Available in Aluminum or ABS Plastic
Free-standing Platform Pet Ramps provide a level landing at the top	Flat Ramps holds up to 100 lb dogs and attaches under the cushion or mattress	Flat Ramp with Side Rails, Side Rails are 4″ high to help keep the pet on track.