Monday, September 13, 2010

Pet Steps Are Helpful To Dogs And Cats Of All Ages

Your pet doesn't have to be old to need the assistance of pet steps. There are many reasons both owners and their furry friends may find life is easier with a few steps to help them up or down.
Pet steps are made specifically for your pet. They are sturdy, carpeted stairs which come in many different heights and styles. Veterinarians often recommend stairs to help your cat or dog get onto or off of high places like sofas and beds. They are also a better option than ramps, which can be slippery or too steep. It is not recommended to make your own stairs or use any type of "human" contraption like a step stool. Both of these options could put your pet at risk of injuring or reinjuring something.
A healthy young dog with an injured leg is one of the best candidates for a set of pet steps. More often than not, a cast or bandage does not slow the pup down and can actually be more hazardous than helpful. There are plenty of occurrences where a happy go lucky dog hurts another limb or reinjures the already damaged leg attempting to leap onto a couch or bed. Providing them with a safe, low impact way to get up and down can increase a younger dog's chances at making a swift recovery. Small dogs are also vulnerable to injuring themselves when they try to jump onto or off of something too high. Many little dogs do not realize how small they are and over estimate their capabilities. Their small, more delicate bones cannot handle the impact of a hard fall or the strain that may occur when they only get their front paws up and then struggle to get the rest of their body up. Giving them access to pet stairs is a good preventative measure to take.
Cats do not seem to use pet stairs as often as dogs do. They are a lot more agile and are built to leap and climb from on place to another. However, that doesn't mean there are times when having stairs isn't helpful. As they get older, kitties tend to get lazier and larger. This increase in size and age can make jumping a lot more challenging. Providing pet steps for you senior feline can help them maintain their normal lifestyle by providing them with a little assistance and helping to avoid injury. On another note, even if your cat is young a spritely, stairs can be a fun place to jump, pounce, claw, and lounge too. They, like cat trees, can be a fun place to burn off some energy.
In the long run, pet steps can save a dog or cat owner a lot of money. Vet bills add up quickly when you have to treat a broken leg or any other injury that can occur from a fall or hard landing. If you think your dog or cat may be a good candidate for a set of steps, follow through with your idea. When you see your feline or canine get up and down off your furniture with ease, you undoubtedly will be happy you made that purchase and your pet will be thankful too.
As a long-time pet owner, Julie is passionate about supporting animal health and wellness. As a board member of her local rescue league, she understands the value proper mental and physical stimulation offers indoor cats in particular. Julie's Siamese cats, Sissy and Missy, enjoy the indoor life thanks to cat towers and cat trees from Ace Cat Furniture.

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