Ramp up your senior pet’s quality of life by introducing a pet ramp for the car, couch, or bed. Ramps provide easy access to elevated places and reduce your senior pet’s risk of fall-related injuries that commonly occur when pets jump up to or down from elevation.

While ramps can help your pet maintain their normal routine, selecting the correct ramp and a proper introduction to your pet is important. Positive training builds your pet’s confidence and understanding, increasing the likelihood that they will use the ramp consistently.

How to select the best ramp for your senior pet

Choosing the correct pet ramp can make your training much easier. An ideal ramp should include:

* A textured surface — Look for textured rubber, artificial turf, or a carpeted surface. Gritty sandpaper-like surfaces do not provide enough grip for some dogs. 

* Stability — The ramp top should include non-slip rubber feet, or a similar feature, to prevent the ramp from sliding while in use.

* Portability — Car ramps should be easy to store, install, and carry. Look for a lightweight model that telescopes or folds.

* Size — Measure the height of your furniture or car to ensure the appropriate size. Ramps that are too short will result in a steep angle and be dangerous for your pet.

How to train your pet to use a ramp

Once you have your pet’s ramp, it’s time to teach an old dog, or cat, new tricks: 

* Introduce the ramp gradually over several days or more. 

* Practice in short, but highly reinforcing, one- to three-minute sessions, a few times per day. 

* Practice before meals, to ensure your pet’s motivation and focus. 

Progress the training at your pet’s pace. If they are scared or nervous, take a break, and begin again at the point where your pet was successful. For the overachiever pet, you may skip unnecessary steps.

* Set up for success — Set out the ramp before bringing your pet in the room—unfolding or moving the ramp can frighten some pets. Lay the ramp flat on the ground, with the textured side up. Prepare lots of small tasty treat rewards.

* Reward any and all interactions — Bring your pet to the ramp area. Observe your pet and reward them for any curiosity about the ramp (e.g, sniffing, touching with any paw, or walking nearby). 

  - If your pet seems confident, place their treat on the ramp. Hand deliver treats to more skeptical pets.

* Walk with your pet — Some pets learn through mimicry. Try walking across the ramp’s width, encouraging your pet to follow. Reward your pet, whether they walk or jump across. Repeat several times.

* Create a trail of treats or toys — Encourage more focused movement by placing a trail of treats across the ramp’s width (i.e., short end). Change the length of your trail and the angle, until your pet is walking smoothly across the ramp’s length.

* Celebrate standing still — If your pet is scrambling or hurrying across the ramp, they are still uncomfortable. Place the ramp alongside a wall and walk beside your pet, feeding a treat at each step, then every two, three, or four steps. Next, pause slightly before giving the treat. This creates value for standing still and helps your pet learn that only good things happen on the ramp.

* Raise the ramp — Once your pet has achieved the above skills, introduce some height. For your senior pet’s safety, a harness and leash are recommended for the elevated phases of training. 

  - Add a phone book, or a similar low, solid object, under one side of the ramp. Walk your dog “up” and reward them frequently. Lift them off at the top, or spot them as they step off. Work several times, and try going “down,” as well.

  - Gradually increase the height by using couch cushions, a low ottoman, stair, or other secure surfaces.

  - Be patient, and spot your dog as they ascend and descend.

* Use the ramp — Install your pet’s ramp in its intended location. Your pet should require fewer treats at this point. Always ensure the base of the ramp has enough room for your pet to have a straight approach and exit.

* Monitor your pet — Pets can fall back on old habits, so your pet may need an occasional reminder to use the ramp. Praise generously and reward randomly.

If your senior pet has experienced a sudden or significant decline in their mobility, health, or quality of life, contact our telehospice service for guidance.