Watch Dr. Ross’s Review on Dog Ramps
Reasons A Ramp Will Improve Your Dog’s Life
What is the best dog ramp? Are stairs or a ramp better for my dog? These are common questions pet owners ask and we have the answers. Throughout a dog’s life, an owner may consider investing in a dog ramp for many reasons.
With both stairs and ramps used for dogs, ramps have a little bit more flexibility. Not to mention, ramps are beneficial to dogs and equally beneficial to the humans that own them. With those features in mind, here are the top five reasons you need a dog ramp for your fur family!
1. Prevent Injuries
One of the most important reasons to have a dog ramp is to prevent injuries from an accidental fall. While it may seem perfectly fine for your dog to jump on and off furniture, your bed, or any place that’s too high for them to access by walking, it is not.
Imagine your canine friend jumping onto a couch with an unforeseen pillow, remote control, or other object blocking their path. Not only will they stop suddenly, but they could also slip off the surface causing leg injuries, back injuries, or worse.
According to VCA Hospitals, injuries from a dog falling can be very serious, and some dogs may even break one or both their legs in an accidental fall.
2. Prevent IVDD
Another important reason to have a dog ramp is for the prevention of Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). This degenerative disease is debilitating and will severely affect your dog’s mobility. So, what is IVDD? It is described as a ruptured, slipped, bulging, or herniated disk.
At least 2% of the canine population will suffer IVDD, and smaller dogs including (but not limited to) American Cocker Spaniels, Shih Tzus, and Dachshunds are more prone to this disease.
In Dachshunds, the IVDD infection rate increases to 24%. Because of their elongated spines, they have an increased risk of being afflicted with Intervertebral Disc Disease.
While smaller dogs have a higher risk of being afflicted with the disease, dogs of all breeds and sizes have suffered from IVDD.
Improve Mobility Issues
As much as we’d love for our furry friends to live forever, our time is limited with them. Even with the best nutrition, dog vitamins, and a good reason (like the bouncy fish toy) for them to get active each day, Just like humans, they will start to feel the aches and pains that come with aging.
Many senior dogs develop stiffness and arthritis as they age. Dogs that used to jump on and off furniture without issue may start having more trouble doing so as they become older.
With the addition of a dog ramp, our furry friends can live comfortably as they enter their golden years. The dog ramp will allow them to keep their independence and sense of freedom just as they always have.
Additionally, ramps improve the lives of dogs who may have birth defects or leg injuries. A dog ramp helps alleviate this inconvenience in scenarios where a dog is mobile but needs a little extra help. The smooth transition from floor to furniture allows for a comfortable experience even when mobility is a concern.
IVDD Survivor Story – Hannah & Louis
4. Exercise
Obesity in dogs is a very real health threat. According to a recent study, more than half of dogs seen at the Banfield Pet Hospital were obese. The vet hospital has more than 1,000 locations across the US. With statistics that high, chances are your four-legged buddy could be carrying some extra weight themselves.
A dog is considered overweight if they are 10 to 20% heavier than their ideal weight. Having a dog ramp forces the dog to go walk more, therefore increasing their physical exercise. Instead of lifting your four-legged best friend, allow them to walk up the ramp to the couch, bed, or other high places by themselves.
While the extra effort to get to where they want to be may not seem much, every bit of physical exertion helps when it comes to combating obesity in dogs.
5. Prevent Back Strain and Injury For Pet Parents
It may come as a surprise, but a dog ramp can also be beneficial for you, the owner. We don’t realize the amount of extra wear and tear we put on our bodies for the love of our pets. While it may seem silly lifting your dog puts you at risk for injury, it is a real issue.
Over time, that constant lifting (especially if the dog is larger) will strain your back. Furthermore, one wrong move while lifting your canine friend and injury can occur. A pulled muscle is painful and can lead to more injuries.
The Future of Dog Ramps
Whether you decide to get your fur family member a dog ramp or not, they’re here to stay. Share your thoughts and leave a comment!
