A Pet's View / September 2006
Easy On, Easy Off
Necessity is often the mother of invention, or at least the midwife. When Raphael, a disabled 5-pound Yorkshire puppy required neurosurgery because of missing vertebrae, the vet warned his owners that jumping on or off furniture, could have fatal consequences.
The ramps and pet stairs on the market at the time were heavy wood, or unstable plastics, with no shock absorption. Raphael’s ‘parents’ created their own Puppy Stairs from industrial foam. The ‘cushy’ steps from Puppy Stairs reduce risk by absorbing much of the impact shock and by reducing a pet’s need to jump up or down from furniture, beds, cars or favorite sites. Puppy Stairs are a combination of lightweight ramps and stair configurations with cubes, wedges and extensions adaptable to a variety of size, space and physical conditions. Standard pieces are appropriate for smaller pets, but wider and taller components are available for larger animals. Each piece is made of a durable, high-density, lightweight, cushioned industrial foam that absorbs shock. The completely modular design is secured by hook and loop fasteners and is easy to assemble and store. Washable, removable covers in neutral tones or designer patterns stand up to repeated washings for years of regular use.
Even healthy pets are susceptible to joint or spinal injuries from jumping and many breeds with long spines and short legs are at substantially higher risk. Pets with sensitive bones or joints or those who are overweight also can suffer short term or long term impact injury from jumps.
Animals with spinal injuries or recovering from surgery need to be especially careful jumping up and down from higher places like beds or sofas and in and out of vehicles. Pet owners - and their animals - don’t realize how the jumping they take for granted can produce long term medical conditions when arthritis and hip dysplasia are in play. Puppy Stairs offer a unique solution to the problem for animals with spinal injuries, but also for older pets or any special needs animal.
Geriatric pets who experience limited mobility, declining eyesight or hearing loss often seek the additional security of being close to their ‘human pack’ on the sofa and bed. Lifting them up and down can be stressful for the pet and hard on the owners. Easy access Puppy Stairs addresses both problems.
Although designed initially for dogs, Puppy Stairs are also helpful for osteoarthritis and pain management in cats who appreciate the ease of elevation and the comfortable sleeping pad. Waterproof Puppy Stairs are available for inside or outside use and to accommodate vehicle entry in all weathers. Fashionable pets can enjoy their new freedom in style, with Puppy Stair components selections in leopard, denim, suede, blue velvet or French bistro print.
Puppy Stairs vary in price depending on the desired components. A standard sized 14’ wide, two step configuration is about $90. A standard 14’ wide, 60” long, three part set up with two ramps and a landing is about $200. A 29’ long designer ramp is $106.
For pet owners, the investment simply reflects a lifelong commitment to the health, comfort and well being of their best-and best loved- friends.
For more information, visit www.puppystairs.com or call 866-767-4551.
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