Access Ramps for Loading Your Disabled Dog in Your Car

My dogs love exploring away from home; going for a car ride is the ultimate thrill. But as they grew older, I had to accommodate their declining joint health, and a car access ramp has been an absolute winner. A car access ramp is convenient for letting aged or disabled dogs gain access to elevated areas such as your car, SUV, or camper.

Mobility issues can significantly impact dogs’ quality of life as they age or experience disabilities. Getting in and out of vehicles can become difficult for dogs, and it can also strain you as you try to lift your dog into the car when they can’t get in on their own.

Let’s find out how to use dog access ramps for cars to help your beloved dog get into your car safely and without straining their or your joints. I’ll also look at how to care for your ramp, choose the best ramp, and where to store your ramp. Let’s ramp up!

Why Getting in and out of Vehicles Is Hard for Dogs

For many dogs, jumping in and out of a car is as easy as a walk in the dog park. However, for older dogs or those with disabilities, this simple act can become a daunting task.

Several factors contribute to this difficulty:

Joint Problems and Arthritis: As dogs age, they are prone to joint issues and arthritis, which can cause pain and stiffness. This makes it hard for them to jump or even climb into a vehicle.
Size and Weight: Larger dogs may struggle more with mobility issues due to their weight, putting extra strain on their joints. Similarly, tiny dogs may not have the strength to leap.
Injuries and Surgeries: Dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries must avoid strenuous activities to prevent further damage that could delay healing.
Fear and Anxiety: Some dogs develop fear or anxiety about jumping into vehicles due to previous bad experiences, making them reluctant.

How Access Ramps Help Dogs Remain Mobile

Dog access ramps for cars are designed to provide a gentle incline, allowing dogs to walk into vehicles without jumping. Here are some key benefits of a car access ramp for your dog:

Reduced Joint Strain: Ramps minimize the impact on joints, making it easier for dogs with arthritis or other joint issues to get into the car. You can set the angle of the ramp incline, allowing your dog to walk at their ability level.
Safety and Independence: Ramps provide a safer way for dogs to enter and exit vehicles, reducing the risk of injury. They also allow dogs to maintain some level of independence. Even younger dogs can benefit from using a ramp as it protects their joints from injuries that could cause pain as they grow older.

Smaller dogs often struggle with jumping into tall or raised vehicles. While you can easily scoop them up and help them into the cab, they love being able to use a ramp to get inside on their own.

Post-Surgery Recovery: Dogs recovering from surgeries, such as spaying, neutering, or orthopedic procedures, can use ramps to avoid strain when climbing into cars during recovery.
Convenience for Owners: For dog owners, ramps eliminate the need to lift heavy dogs into the car, which can be strenuous and risky for the dog and owner. Plus, trying to lift a 150-pound (or more) dog into a car can be awkward, which may scare your dog, causing them to thrash about and further injure themselves and you.
Adaptability: Many ramps are adjustable and can be used with various vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and trucks.

What to Look for When Buying a Dog Access Ramp for Your Car

You’ll want to get the best for your dog to help them quickly and safely enter and leave your car. This means you need to consider your type of vehicle, your dog’s size, and the overall features of each ramp.

These are the factors to look out for when choosing a ramp for your dog and car:

Weight Capacity: Ensure the ramp can support your dog’s weight. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for maximum weight limits. If you haven’t weighed your dog recently, head to the vet for a correct weight reading, and don’t use a guesstimate.
Length and Incline: Longer ramps provide a gentler incline, which is easier for dogs to navigate. Measure your vehicle’s height to find the right length. Also, consider the areas where you will likely park your car, as space availability will influence whether a longer ramp will work.
Material and Durability: Look for ramps made of sturdy materials like aluminum or heavy-duty plastic. Ramps should withstand outdoor conditions and frequent use.
Traction: A suitable ramp should have a non-slip surface and base to prevent your dog or the ramp from slipping, especially in wet conditions.
Portability: If you travel frequently, consider a ramp that is lightweight, foldable, and easy to store in your vehicle. Some ramps can even attach to the back of your car, making assembly super easy.
Ease of Use: The ramp should be simple to set up and take down, with features like locking mechanisms for added stability. Ramps should also be lightweight enough to fold and pack them in your car without strain.

Examples of the Best Car Accessibility Ramps for Dogs

Let’s step up with a few of the best vehicle ramps for dogs on the market. These options are chosen due to their functionality, durability, price, and effectiveness to get your dog safely in your car.

Folding Dog Car Ramp – HerCcreta wigge Store’s Dog Ramp for Car

This folding dog ramp is ideal for a truly versatile dog ramp for car access. The ramp is available in an extra-wide model for large or very unstable dogs, and the overall finish is perfect for allowing your dog to grip the ramp as they walk up or down. The longer-length option is also a great choice if your car is quite high off the ground.

I like that it can support up to 250 pounds of weight, but when you fold up the ramp, it’s only 14 pounds to carry or lift into the car. The aluminum frame is also rust-resistant. And with a one-year guarantee, you have peace of mind.

Telescopic Car Ramp – The PetSafe Store’s PetSafe 62461 Solvit Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp

The telescopic car ramp is perfect if you’re scared of pinching fingers in a ramp’s folding joints. Its telescopic function lets you easily slide the ramp into smaller sections without needing to fold. With a weight of less than 13 pounds, the ramp can support a whopping 400 pounds, which can accommodate even a giant dog.

Training Your Dog to Use a Car Access Ramp

Trying to drag your dog up or down the ramp is not great when they’ve never been on it. My advice is to train your dog to use the ramp before you actually need to use it. These steps are ideal for introducing your dog to the ramp and getting it confident enough to use it without supervision.

Prepare the Ramp

Unbox the ramp and assemble it securely, but if it tilts, leave it untilted, so it’s flat on the ground.

Introduce Your Dog to the Ramp

Ensure you keep your dog safe and on their harness or collar, so you can stop them bolting if the ramp scares them. I like to let them sniff it a bit, and then I scatter some yummy dog kibbles over the ramp surface, encouraging my dog to walk onto the ramp.

It’s then a matter of rinse and repeat until your dog is very comfortable walking onto and off the ramp.

Raise the Ramp into Place

Next, adjust the ramp to an inclined slope, ensuring it can carry your dog’s weight and that all parts are correctly installed or assembled. If the ramp is height adjustable, starting with it at the lowest height setting is best. Let your dog walk over the ramp repeatedly, and when it’s no big deal, you can increase the height setting until it’s at the desired height for your vehicle (or sofa or bed).

Use Treats to Motivate Your Dog

If your dog is reluctant to walk over the ramp, remember to take it slow and use treats to motivate them for each step. Praise them outrageously, and always supervise when they use the ramp so they don’t fall and get injured.

How to Maintain Access Ramps for Your Car

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your dog’s ramp remains safe and functional. Here are some tips:

Cleaning: Clean the ramp regularly to remove dirt, debris, and any substances that could affect traction or cause your dog to slip. Use mild soap and water, and allow it to dry completely before use.
Inspection: Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, loose screws, or worn-out traction surfaces. Address these issues immediately to prevent accidents.
Storage: Store the ramp in a dry place when not in use. If it’s foldable, ensure it is properly locked to prevent damage. I like to keep my foldable ramp in the rear storage space as my dog gets in from the back of my SUV.
Lubrication: If the ramp has moving parts, like hinges or telescoping sections, lubricate them periodically to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust.

Alternatives to Ramps: Dog Stairs and Lifts

If you don’t have space for a ramp (such as when you take public transportation like a bus) or your dog simply won’t accept one, you can use other mobility aids in place of or in addition to ramps.

Dog Stairs: Suitable for smaller vehicles or indoor use, dog stairs provide a series of steps for dogs to climb. I always try to get a stair with wide, small steps, which makes it easier for my dogs to use.
Dog Lifts and Slings: These devices help lift dogs into vehicles without putting strain on their bodies. And if your dog has hip dysplasia or serious arthritis, they may need the additional support even when using a ramp. Simply slip on their sling and support their back legs as they walk up or down the ramp.

FAQs

You likely have a few more questions about car ramps for dogs, and here are some answers:

How do I know if my dog needs a ramp?

Signs that your dog needs a ramp include difficulty jumping, hesitation, or visible joint pain. If your dog starts refusing to climb into your car, it could indicate that it experiences pain when it climbs up or jumps down. But don’t wait until your dog has joint issues to get a ramp—get one now to prevent joint problems.

Can ramps be used for other purposes besides vehicles?

Yes, ramps can also be used to easily access beds, couches, and other elevated surfaces where your dog would normally struggle.

How can I ensure my dog’s safety on the ramp?

Ensure the ramp is stable, use positive reinforcement, and never force your dog to use it. For dogs with severe instability, use a sling to assist them as they walk up or down the ramp.

More Jack’s Dacks Articles

Final Ramping

Access ramps for dogs to get into cars and other vehicles are invaluable tools for helping disabled and older dogs maintain mobility and independence. By reducing the strain on their joints and providing a safer way to get in and out of vehicles, ramps can significantly improve the quality of life for our furry friends.

My dogs love their ramp, and they adore still being able to accompany me on a road trip or a short drive to the vet for a checkup. Choose your car ramp carefully, keeping your dog’s age, size, and disability in mind.

With regular maintenance, inspections, and good training practices, your ramp will become your dog’s new best friend.

Helping Your Four-Legged Friend To Age Well