Dog ramp car in Exeter
Professional dog ramp car services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60
Typical Duration
30 mins
Location
Exeter, Devon
Dog car ramp set up properly for safe vehicle access. Positioned at the right angle, stability checked, usage demonstrated - helping older or mobility-challenged dogs get in and out of cars.
When Lifting Your Dog Into the Car Hurts
Got a big dog? Older dog with arthritis? Or maybe you've got a bad back and can't keep lifting them? Car ramps solve all that - but only if they're positioned safely and your dog trusts them.
💡 Pro tip: Start using ramps BEFORE your dog's mobility gets really bad. Much easier to train them when they're still confident than when they're already struggling and scared.
Why Setup Matters
Just buying a ramp isn't enough. Wrong angle, unstable surface, or scared dog = nobody uses it. Proper setup makes the difference between success and an expensive ramp gathering dust in the garage.
| ✅ Done Right | ❌ Done Wrong |
|---|---|
| Ramp at safe, gradual angle | Too steep - dog won't trust it |
| Stable, doesn't wobble | Moves when dog steps on - scary |
| Non-slip surface secure | Dog's paws slip - loses confidence |
| Dog introduced positively | Forced onto ramp - now terrified of it |
What You Get
🔧 The Full Service
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Position | Set ramp at correct angle for your car height |
| Check | Test stability and non-slip surface |
| Demo | Show you proper usage and storage |
| Training tips | Advice on getting your dog comfortable using it |
📦 You're Left With
- Ramp positioned safely for your vehicle
- Confidence it's stable and secure
- Knowledge of how to use and store it
- Training plan for your dog
Pricing
Car ramp setup: £60
Includes positioning, safety check, usage demonstration, and training tips. If your dog's home and willing, we'll do a practice run together.
Based on £60 minimum callout.
Perfect For You If...
✅ Older dog - arthritis, joint problems, mobility issues
✅ Large breed - too heavy to lift safely
✅ Your back's dodgy - can't keep lifting dogs
✅ Prevention - save their joints from jumping strain
Why Choose Us for Dog ramp car in Exeter?
Ramp positioned for safe angle
Non-slip surface checked
Folding/storage shown if applicable
Practice run with your dog (if present)
What to Expect
Step 1: Position for Your Vehicle
I'll check your car height and position the ramp at a safe angle. Too steep scares dogs, too shallow takes up too much space. There's a sweet spot.
Step 2: Safety Check
Test the ramp's stability, check non-slip surface is secure, make sure it attaches/rests properly against your car without sliding or scratching.
Step 3: Demo & Tips
Show you how to use it, how to store it (if it folds), and most importantly - how to train your dog to use it confidently with treats and patience.
🔧 DIY Tips
Want to set up and train your dog yourself? Here's how:
🔧 Setup basics
- Angle: Aim for 30-45 degrees maximum - gentler is better for nervous dogs
- Stability: Ramp must not wobble or slide when dog steps on it
- Surface: Check non-slip coating is secure, not peeling off
- Protection: Use towel on car edge if ramp might scratch paintwork
🐕 Training your dog to use it
- Start flat: Put ramp flat on ground, let dog walk across for treats
- Gradual angle: Prop one end up slightly, reward walking up
- Build height: Slowly increase angle over several sessions
- Car height: Only go to full car height when dog's confident on lower angles
- Positive only: Never force them - makes it worse
🎯 Training tips
- Use high-value treats (chicken, cheese - whatever they love)
- Stay calm and patient - dogs sense your stress
- Short sessions (5-10 mins) multiple times a day
- Reward every step in the right direction
- Some dogs take days to master, some weeks - go at their pace
⚠️ Common mistakes
- Ramp too steep (scary for dogs)
- Forcing dog onto ramp (creates fear)
- Unstable surface (dog loses confidence after one slip)
- Giving up too soon (training takes time)
- Using ramp on different angles each time (consistency helps)
💡 Pro trick: For nervous dogs, start with ramp leading to something they LOVE - their bed, food bowl, favorite spot. Once they're happy walking up ramps generally, transition to the car. And always have someone at the top with treats to encourage them up.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
🐕 Arthritis? Ramps are essential for dogs with joint problems. Jumping in and out of cars makes arthritis worse. Vets recommend ramps as soon as diagnosis happens.
Ramp types:
- Folding: Compact storage, but check hinge strength
- Telescopic: Adjustable length for different cars
- Solid: Most stable but bulky to store
- Bi-fold: Balance of storage and stability
Weight limits: Check your ramp's weight rating. A Great Dane needs a different ramp to a Spaniel. Don't cheap out - broken ramp mid-use injures dogs and destroys trust.
Surface matters: Wire mesh, rubber coating, or carpet - all work if secure. The key is grip. Dogs won't use slippery ramps no matter how much you encourage them.
Training time: Some confident dogs master it in a day. Nervous dogs might need 2-3 weeks of gentle practice. Don't rush it - you're building trust.
Multiple dogs? Each dog needs training individually. Don't expect one dog to teach another - they're not that cooperative!
Alternatives: If ramps genuinely don't work (tiny car, super nervous dog), look into pet steps or consider a car with lower entry height.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the setup involve?
I'll position the ramp at a safe angle for your car height, check the non-slip surface is secure, test stability, and show you how to use it. If your dog's around, we can do a practice run together so they get used to it. Plus folding/storage tips if it's that type.
Do I need to buy the ramp first?
Yes - this service is for setting up ramps you've already bought. If you haven't purchased one yet and want advice on which type suits your car and dog, happy to help, but I don't supply the ramps themselves.
Will my dog actually use it?
Most dogs learn quickly with treats and encouragement. Some need more coaxing than others. I can show you training techniques - basically make it a positive experience with rewards. Start with ramp on gentle angle, build up their confidence gradually.
Can you help train my dog to use the ramp?
I can show you the basics and do a practice run if your dog's home, but proper training takes repetition over several days. I'll give you tips on the technique - treats, encouragement, patience. You'll need to practice regularly for it to stick.
What about different car heights?
The ramp angle matters. Low cars are easier. High SUVs or vans need longer ramps for a safer angle - steep ramps scare dogs. I'll check your specific setup and advise if the ramp you've got is suitable for your vehicle.
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01392 964094Request Online QuoteOur Rates
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