A dog ramp made of Pine and covered in foam wall panel sheets for a pet suffering from hip dysplasia.
The project
My gorgeous Golden Retriever Charlie was recently diagnosed with hip dysplasia. This condition makes simple movements incredibly difficult. It is for this reason that I decided to build a ramp to allow her easy access to some cuddles on the bed. I worked hard to match the bed frame and décor in the room with bright whites and panelling to finish.
Steps
Step 1
Build the frame using 35 x 70mm untreated Pine. If adding shelving or draws, ensure this is calculated in the frame build. Secure the frame with 75mm 10G timber screws.
Step 2
Carefully cut Pine cladding to size and secure using 30mm 8G timber screws. Be sure to countersink screws using a larger drill bit.
Step 3
Using 3mm coated MDF board, measure and cut shelving lining. Secure in place using indoor wood glue and 20mm 8G screws.
Step 4
Measure and cut the 9mm MDF top. Secure using countersunk 50mm 10G timber screws. Patch all screw holes and imperfections.
Step 5
Use white gap filler to seal the edges of the shelves. Sand the ramp back until the surface is completely smooth. Apply a coat of prime, followed by one coat of white wall paint.
Step 6
Add your chosen material to the ramp top.
Step 7
Upon installing the ramp, and observing Charlie using it, I realised the carpet was far too slippery. I then replaced it with these great foam-based self-adhesive panels. My Goldie has definitely appreciated the ramp install. I used self-adhesive foam wall panel sheets from Kmart for the top as they offered heaps of grip.
Tools and materials
Tools used in the project:
