It might surprise you, but the number of American households that have dogs averages about 63%, or roughly seventy million families. Are you one of these families? Dogs are not only a great form of protection and security, they’re also terrific companions and can be loyal until the end, which could be sooner rather than later if you don’t take preventative measures to ensure that your dog remains in top health. This includes the use of dog ramps and steps. You’re probably unsure how these items can extend your dog’s health, but read on to find out just how important pet ramps and stairs can be.

No matter what breed of dog you have, or how young he is, he is not impervious to joint or spinal injuries that can be cause from jumping to and from furniture and other objects. Of course some breeds are especially susceptible to injury from jumping, such as Pomeranians, Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and other breeds that have short legs, fragile bones, or long spines.

No matter what size of dog you have, small dog steps and large dog steps are available to aid your pet in ascending and descending. Keep a set next to your bed, couch, or porch to help him avoid repetitive, harmful impact on his joints and bones. Using pet stairs and ramps can not only prevent an already healthy dog from developing injuries or long-term conditions, but it can also promote healing and comfortable mobility for dogs with pre-existing conditions, such as obesity and arthiritis.

Some issues are hereditary for certain dog breeds, such as Rottweilers and Pit Bulls who are very prone to hip dysplasia. Dachshunds are also very susceptible to spinal injury due to the length of their back. Other issues that may develop are arthritis, bone wobblers syndrome, osteopathy, and bone tumors. Many of these can be prevented or prolonged with the aid of pet stairs. Other perks to owning a pair of dog steps or a ramp is that you won’t have to worry about jerking awake in the middle of the night to your dog pouncing on your bed! Instead, let him quietly maneuver up onto your bed without the need to jump at all.