Dog ramps can prove to be a great way to assist your dog up and down out of a vehicle, up (or down) a short flight of stairs, onto a bed, or any area your pet has difficulty accessing because of weight, age, or illness.  You will also enjoy the benefits of not having to constantly lift your pet.  Not all pet ramps are made of the same quality and have the same features.  For maximum value, look for these basic features:

1. Easy handling - Remember, you'll be toting the ramp before setting it up. It needs to be lightweight enough for you to work with easily. Also, make sure it has a handle. It may seem like a simple feature, but it ensures single-hand, convenient carrying.
   
   
2. Strength - Look at the ramp's weight capacity. Make sure it's rated for your pet's size. If the ramp is not rated for at least a couple hundred pounds, it's probably not constructed very solidly.
   
   
3. Safety - Safety features are an absolute must, for you and your pet. Look for front and rear stabilizer lips or non-skid feet to keep both the ramp in place and your pet secure. Look for side railings to stabilize the ramp and prevent falls.
   
   
4. Traction - When loading a pet into a vehicle in wet or icy conditions, the ramp must have adequate surface traction to prevent your pet from slipping. This ensures confidence when your pet uses the ramp. Keep in mind, if he begins to slip he'll be reluctant to cooperate.
   
   
5. Compact Storage - A telescoping or folding model is ideal. They slide open easily without hardware and fold back just as readily for space-saving storage in the cargo area of your vehicle or in a small closet in your home.