Pull out dog ramp (under trunk platform)?

[snitz427]

Hello. I was just wondering if anyone has come up with a DIY solution for a hidden dog ramp integrated into their drawers or sleeping platform. My husband's service dog just turned 8, and overnight he has become a damn senior citizen. With a lift, he is really having a hard time getting in and out, and he's too heavy for me to lift in and out each time.

I'm building a level sleeping platform and am designing a ramp for him that is easy to deploy, and hides away (rattle free) when not in use. I'm going for as low profile as possible, as I was hoping to use that under-platform space for other things. I am really drawing a blank. I thought I had a genius plan to use tilting drawer slides, until I saw the height profile is over 5".

If you have an old, large dog, what's your solution to loading them in the 4R? Any insight or thoughts are appreciated. :yo:

 

[DesertFish]

I've got an 8yo 160lb Great Dane and use the Solvit Delux Tri-Scope Ramp http://a.co/6TREejQ . It's just under 5" tall but is pretty light weight, takes about 5 seconds to deploy and 5 seconds to collapse and slide back in to the 4R. It also provides great grip and enough of a side wall so that its not easy to slide off. It easily fits behind the rear seat with plenty of space for other things as well. Only real downside, on big bumps/deep potholes, it will make some noise.

 

[Kenny Powers]

I don’t have a solution, but just wanted to tip my hat to you and the other great dog people who work to take care of their dogs when they start to age. Tells me a lot about your character. Kudos.

 

[snitz427]

I've got an 8yo 160lb Great Dane and use the Solvit Delux Tri-Scope Ramp http://a.co/6TREejQ . It's just under 5" tall but is pretty light weight, takes about 5 seconds to deploy and 5 seconds to collapse and slide back in to the 4R. It also provides great grip and enough of a side wall so that its not easy to slide off. It easily fits behind the rear seat with plenty of space for other things as well. Only real downside, on big bumps/deep potholes, it will make some noise.

I looked at that, but the height is too high. I thought about doing something similar with a single slide to get a lower profile. Tyler is 80lbs so I think it would support his weight. Doesnit just set on the bumper or secure in somehow?


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[DesertFish]

I looked at that, but the height is too high. I thought about doing something similar with a single slide to get a lower profile. Tyler is 80lbs so I think it would support his weight. Doesnit just set on the bumper or secure in somehow?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

It just sits on the bumper on about 3/4" rubber feet. Same for the other end that sits on the ground. In 3 years, they have caused absolutely no damage to the bumper and I probably use it 1-2x per week.