About Outdoor Dog Ramps

DISCLAIMER: This manual, including graphics and charts, is Copyrighted and exclusive property of Pet Classics LLC. Under no circumstances is this document, or its contents, to be distributed or reproduced, in any manner, without explicit written consent from Pet Classics. -- Pet Classics™ LLC ©2005

General Background
Choosing Your Outdoor Ramp
Selecting The Correct Dog Ramp
- Slope To Height Product Chart
Outdoor Dog Ramp Models
Training Tips

Background

Simple, lightweight outdoor dog ramps have turned out to be a major convenience, not only for our beloved pets, but also for us. They can be used for many applications, such as:

SUVs
Pickup Trucks
Station Wagons and Hatchbacks
Outdoor Stairs and Stoops
Some Cars and Sedans*

*For use with automobiles, doors must open wide enough to accommodate the width of a ramp.

Initially, there were very few dog ramps suitable for the rigor of outdoor use and inclement weather and they only came in one length. In recent years, however, the number of styles and, more importantly, the number of length options have increased considerably.

Pet Classics™ carefully tests, evaluates and selects only the models we feel confidant will meet the requirements of your pet, and which hold to the high quality standards we expect for all of our products.

To help you sort through the available lengths and options, we will outline below some of the steps necessary to purchase the correct ramp for your pet.

Choosing Your Outdoor Dog Ramp

To begin the selection process, you will need two key pieces of information.

The exact height of auto, truck, or deck you need the ramp to reach.
An understanding of your dog's current and near-term physical ability.

With your desired height and dog's ability, you will be able to determine the proper Slope (incline). You can then use your Slope and Desired Height to find your ramp length.

How To Measure Height?

Demonstration to measure height for dog ramps. To determine the length of dog ramp you need, measure the height or rise you are going up to. (Measure from the ground straight up to the door, top step or SUV, van, truck tailgate.)

Why Dog Ramp Slopes?

An elderly dog, or dog with leg or hip impairment will have problems climbing a ramp that is too steep. To begin the selection process, take a moment to assess the physical condition of your pet and check the guidelines below:

What Slope is Best for My Pet?

Climber Slope (26 degrees)

For young to middle age dogs that need a ramp but do not have significant mobility, physical or strength impairments.

Normal Slope (22 Degrees)

A moderate incline for dogs which may have minor health or mobility issues.

Easy Slope (18 Degrees)

Very gentle incline, and much easier for achy muscles and bones. Highly recommended for senior or disabled dogs with mobility problems and/or increasing muscle or limb weakness.

Selecting the Correct Dog Ramp

1. Using guidelines above, identify the slope / incline that matches your dog's age and ability level. (Easy, Normal or Climber slope)

2. On the chart below, the first (left hand) column shows available ramp lengths. Determine which slope your pet requires and then look in that color-coded column for the height you need the ramp to reach. On the right side of the chart you will find recommended ramp(s) for the slope and rise you selected.

NOTE: Heights listed in chart are "up to", i.e. Maximum Landing Heights.

**Height and Slope for Dog Ramp Length**
Ramp Length	Max Height Easy Slope 18°	Max Height Normal Slope 22°	Max Height Climber Slope 26°	Dog Ramp Models Click to view Ramp
36" (3 Feet)	12"	14"	16"	One Piece Aluminum
42" (3½ Feet)	13"	16"	18"	Side Kick
72" (6 Feet)	22"	27"	31"	Telescoping 72 or 6-Foot Folding Aluminum
84" (7 Feet)	26"	32"	36"	Extra Wide 87" Telescoping or 7-Foot Folding Aluminum

In summary:

1. Determine proper Slope for your dog.
2. Find the height you need the ramp to reach.
3. Select the best Ramp for your dog.

Dog Ramp Models

Plastic Molded

Constructed from a strong, durable Starlite Polymer, these carpeted ramps are 17-1/2 to 18 inches wide with a 4 inch high side rail. The telescoping models offer a unique way of easily collapsing a longer ramp for storage and transportation. One-piece and telescoping models are available.

Aluminum

Constructed with lightweight aluminum for strength and stability with a professional grade, non-slip, 3M grit surface for superior traction. The specially engineered and patented hinge is extremely strong and sturdy; we highly recommend these ramps for larger, heavier breeds.

The ramps are 15" wide, with a 4" top lip, 1-1/2" side safety rails, and a side carrying handle. They are rated to hold 250 lbs and will not bow or flex under the weight of heavier dog breeds.

The 6 ft and 7 ft models both fold in half for ease of transport and storage. There is also a solid, one-piece 36" long model; the shortest of our outdoor dog ramps.

Dog Ramp Training Tips

Many dogs take to their new ramps right away, but in the event that you need a few "tricks":

Place the dog ramp flat on the ground and allow your dog to play on and around it. Use treats or toys and make it a game for your pet to walk or run up and down the flat surface.

After they've had a chance to acclimate to the ramp, raise the ramp to an intermediate height, such as a curb or a set of 2 or 3 steps. Take your dog by the collar and gently lead your pet up. Encourage them with treats to go up and down the ramp independently.

If you see any hesitation, continue to use the leash or harness to guide your dog on the ramp for the first few uses. This will help give them confidence on their new dog ramp.

Outdoor Dog Ramps