Over the years, I’ve tried several different ramps and stair units to help my pets climb up to the couch or bed. What I’ve found is that, often, the incline is too steep or the apparatus is made with foam support, which doesn’t feel sturdy under their paws.
Recently, I was specifically looking for a product to assist my senior dog, Bruno. Bruno is thirteen years old, five solid pounds, and has arthritis, decreasing vision and one big, cantankerous attitude. The issue we have with his mobility is his recent fear of getting on and off furniture that he used to have no problem conquering. He’s gone from a very independent dog to relying on me to pick him up every time he wants to change seats. Picking him so many times a day seems to cause him discomfort, so I really wanted to find something that would help him feel like he was in control again.
The Bedside Ramp by PetSafe saved the day. I was able to assemble it in about 20 minutes. Made from real wood, the frame and walking area are both very sturdy, and the carpet is good quality and securely attached to the ramp. Not your typical flimsy ramp or squishy set of stairs, the Bedside Ramp is made to give your pet an easy, confident boost up to the bed. The ramp sits alongside the bed, and even fits with a nightstand in place. I also tried placing it at the end of my bed, and it worked very nicely. Bruno is now free to lounge wherever he wants for as long as he wants and, as an added bonus, he uses the ramp for his “stretching” sessions!
Pros
■ Quality materials
■ Provides a gentle climbing angle
■ Fits alongside both queen- and king-sized beds
■ Easy assembly
■ Blends into home décor nicely
■ Provided stability and freedom for my senior pet
■ Generous width
Con
■ The ramp was a bit wobbly when used by my younger, hyperactive dog.
Materials: Real wood, cherry finish and durable ribbed carpet
Dimensions: 70 x 16 x 25 inches
Recommended for all breeds, weight limit 120 pounds
Price (on website at time of print): $169.99
