Ramps vs. Stairs – What To Consider?
Do you notice your pet struggling to hop onto the couch or into the car? Jumping on and off elevated surfaces can put a strain on your pet’s joints and spine—especially if they’re arthritic, recovering from surgery, or simply dealing with the effects of aging. Ramps or stairs can help reduce that strain and prevent injuries. Which option is best for your pet?
Ramps or stairs can help reduce that strain and prevent injuries
What’s Going On With Your Pet?
Mobility & Comfort: Stairs require more hip, spine, and joint flexibility. If your pet is recovering from an injury or dealing with joint issues, ramps often feel easier on the body.
Safety & Confidence: Pets with limited mobility may rush up stairs, increasing the risk of slips or stumbles. A ramp’s gentle incline can help them move at their own pace.
Choosing the Right Option
Size & Setup: Measure the space next to furniture or the car. Pets often do better with ramps or steps placed parallel to the furniture so they have a visual “railing.”
Surface Material: Look for non-slip surfaces like carpet or turf. Plastic can be slippery and discourage use.
Proper Width & Incline: Make sure the ramp or steps are wide enough (especially for larger dogs) and not too steep.
Portability: If you’ll use it for the car, consider models that fold or collapse easily.
Pro Tip: Nail Trims Matter
Long nails shift a pet’s weight backward—like walking uphill all the time. Keep nails at a comfortable length to help them navigate ramps or steps with ease.
Scale Matters
For a small dog, a couch is more than twice their height. That’s like a person climbing onto or jumping off of a counter top multiple times a day. Ramps and stairs can protect your best friends spine, hips, and knees.
Start Early, Stay Safe Even if your pet is young and spry, introducing ramps or steps now can help prevent injuries later. Getting them comfortable with these tools early gives them a “leg up” on healthy habits for life.Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Overall Pick
High quality with a railing to guide your pet, and comes in a variety of colors to better go with your decor.
Best For Couches
Adjustable hight short ramp perfect for a sofa and can easily moved during the day.
Top Pick For Little Dogs
A great budget friendly options for small dogs and cats that don’t need a full ramp.