How to get Wolfie into my SUV

16 years ago

I have a 10 yr. old blue chow named Wolfie. As he is getting up there in age, it has occurred to me that if something happened to him and he had to get to the vet ASAP, how would I get him in my SUV. There is no way that I could lift him by myself, as he weighs 65 lbs., and I only weigh around 95 lbs.

I was thinking along the lines of a used EMT gurney. I have no idea if that is even possible. Was just wondering if any of you have encountered a similar problem?

Any other ideas?

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Comments (9)

olga_d
16 years ago
How about a ramp? Something like this: http://www.jbpet.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=800_803
northy
16 years ago
There are loads of different styles of ramps designed for dogs. Some self-retract, some are more like big flat planks that you'll have to find a way to store (ie the backseat). My friend with a huge 12 year old lab (90lbs+) has this one:
http://www.amazon.com/Jeep-Tri-Fold-Pet-Automotive-Ramp/dp/B000RMNE9K/ref=pd_bbs_sr_11?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1198366621&sr=8-11

The price is up-there, but it does fold down so she can store it easily in her CRV.
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luvdogs
16 years ago
He's beautiful.
cynthia_gw
16 years ago
You can also put his front paws on the lower frame of the rear gate, then lift his butt up with a pushing motion to give him a little help.

Don't sell yourself short though. You probably can lift him. I've been carrying my 60 pound girl up and down the stairs and lifting her in and out of the car since summer. I don't weigh that much more than you do and likely twice your age :)
sylviatexas1
16 years ago
You can make a stretcher out of 2 broomsticks & a length of canvas or other fabric.

Turn under 3" or so along the long sides of the material & stitch (like making rod pockets for curtains).

Run the broomsticks through each side.
carla17
16 years ago
I have that problem with my Corgi. I am just not strong enough to handle 40 lbs. into an SUV. Wolfe is adorable.
Good suggestion from Sylvia.

Carla
shroppie
16 years ago
If the dog has some limited mobility, you can back the SUV up to an incline. Kiss the bumper up to the side of a hill and the dog can walk on. My yard is sloped and that's how I'd loaded my 120 lb Akbash for the past 2 months.

A buffet table with some traction tape will work in a pinch as a ramp. Just trap the lower end with your foot.

If the dog is completely immobile, you can rig a sling using a towel or sheet. You can also purchase a carry sling through many of the mail-order pet places. A collapsible gurney will work if the ground is frimand fairly smooth. Rough going over gravel - you'd need 2 people to operate then....same with a stretcher.

And Cynthia is correct as well. Last Friday, I carried my big girl down a flight of steps, through 2 rooms, out the door, 35 yards to the garage and into the Explorer ..... and I have 2 herniated discs. Adrenaline will be pumping in an emergency
dobesrule
16 years ago
He's beautiful. Reminds me of my Smokey girl that died in Sept., she was almost sixteen. Everyone above has had some good suggestions and it's thoughtful of you to try and plan ahead but like a couple have said you never know what you can do until you have to.

Lisa
sylviatexas1
16 years ago
You may be able to do more than you think you can, but you may not, & you may pull or damage some muscles.

better to be cautious;
who takes care of our dogs if we hurt ourselves & are laid up in bed for a week?

How to get Wolfie into my SUV

Comments (9)

olga_d

northy

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