If your dog already suffers from a joint condition, Dog Ramps will help. If your pet is more at risk of hereditary issues, you’ll probably already know the risks involved in jumping and unnecessary strain. The benefits of dog ramps

can prevent these issues. Unfortunately, not everyone understands the risks involved. A recent study looks to change this by highlighting the dangers of letting dogs jump unaided from vehicles and other heights.

Jumping without Dog Ramps can harm dogs.

Leading vets studied the effects of jumping from various heights, including those of a standard 4×4, on 15 dogs. A force plate recorded the impact on the dogs’ legs. Discovered that even an incremental increase in height resulted in significantly more force on the legs and joints. In fact, the most significant jump measured at around the height of a standard 4×4 boot and was four times the impact of normal walking for the dogs.

But what does this mean for the animals themselves?

It’s already well known that this type of force can exacerbate and encourage the natural hereditary joint problems many dog breeds have. Still, all dogs can suffer from injuries and musculoskeletal issues with regular wear and tear of the joints. This includes elbow or hip dysplasia and painful arthritic problems like osteoarthritis.

Unlike agility activities, dogs are often in cars for extended periods with little to no movement before jumping out. With no warm-up, jumping from a static position like the back of a vehicle can put even more strain on their joints. While some owners will help their dogs by lifting them. This can be dangerous for both the owner and dog who could suffer from subsequent back problems.

There are currently no regulations about how dogs enter and exit a vehicle, so it’s up to owners to take a right.

Solving the problem: The benefits of a pet ramps

WeatherTech EasyRamp Pet Ramp for Larger Vehicles & Older Pets

Because of studies just like this one, the British Veterinary Association and other leading experts recommend using a ramp for vehicles and different heights. Pet ramps can minimize the strain on your dog’s joints. It perfect for preventing breed-related problems. As well as assisting older dogs that are more at risk of injury. Here are just some of the benefits of a dog ramp.

Easier for the dog

Smaller dogs might naturally have problems getting in and out of taller vehicles, while bigger dogs may simply be reluctant. Dog ramps can make life easier for all types of dogs, including puppies. Who might struggle with these heights or be scared to make the leap as well as older dogs? Who may lose their confidence in making big jumps?

Easier for you

With pet ramps, there is no lifting, which can be dangerous for you and the dog, especially if it’s a bigger breed. You’ll especially notice the difference if your dog is sick and needs to be taken to the vet. Instead of struggling to lift a poorly dog, you can make life a lot easier with a pet ramps to assist them in the car.

With A Pet Ramps Less stress on joints

The most significant benefit of a ramp if their assistance with joint problems. It can be both painful for the dog and costly for owners. This is important for all dogs but especially those that suffer from joint heredity issues as many breeds do.

A Pet Ramps Is Less risk of injury.

Dogs can easily injure themselves, getting in and out of vehicles and are particularly at risk in rain or snow. A ramp with a grippy surface can significantly reduce the risk of injury and keep your dog healthier.

Dog Ramps Versatility

A pet ramp can be used for more than just cars. Its lightweight, portable nature means you can use it almost anywhere to help your dog. Whether it’s for steps when you’re out and about or around the home to get onto a bed or even in the bath.

Dog Ramps Longevity

Ramps are good to use from puppy to older dogs. Help prevent injuries and joint problems by using the ramp early on in your dog’s life and use it for years to come and well into their old age.

WeatherTech PetRamp – High-Traction Foldable Pet Ramp

This product is described as a lightweight, foldable, high-traction pet ramp.

After carefully testing this product, we found a few issues people should consider before purchasing this product.

The WeatherTech Pet Ramp is only 18 inches wide.

While this is suitable for many dogs, if it was 2 to 3 inches wider, it would be perfect. Giant breed dogs or geriatric dogs who may have muscle loss and arthritis tend to have a wider stance. Many dogs will simply feel more comfortable using a slightly wider ramp.

We also found that it has an inconvenient carrying notch with no lock/latch and will easily unfold at unwanted times when being carried.

The cut-away handhold on the side leads one to think that the ramp can be carried one-handed. However, we found the lack of a locking mechanism to be a problem. The ramp can easily open unexpectedly while being carried.

It is simple to use although you must watch your fingers when folding it up.

The ramp has a rubberized walking surface, which provides good traction. However, it is relatively heavy and awkward to deploy.

WeatherTech has very good customer service.

Be sure to measure your cargo space. The ramp is 37 inches long and may not fit in all vehicles.

The ramp is a bit heavy (about 16 lbs.) and bulky, but we believe it is a reasonable trade-off for a sturdy, solid ramp.

We did find the ramp sturdy. It doesn’t wobble which might scare a dog. It is truly non-slip. The raised sides are a plus. The rubber feet on both ends prevent the ramp from slipping either on the vehicle or the ground.

Aside from a few modifications we’d like to see, we liked this product. If the dog is not too large it will help pet owners get their furry friends safely in their vehicles.

It should be noted that with this and any similar product, pets should be introduced slowly and while on a leash.