Pet Steps: Indoor Stairs You Can Build Yourself

Small or ailing dogs have a heck of a time getting up on the couch, bed, or chair, but no more. It's easy to make him a set of steps to climb, taking him right to his favorite resting spot. And there'll be no more clawing and pawing at the side of the bed, trying to get up, because now he can get there all by himself.

Although there are several ways to make the steps, the safest set of steps, for you and your dog, is made from foam. You'll find the foam at an upholstery supply store, upholstery shop, or at some home improvement places. You'll need three pieces, one cut to a measurement of 4"H x 14"D x 12"W. The second piece needs to be 4"H x 11"D x 12"W, and the third piece 4"H x 8"D x 12"W.

Foam comes in various densities and types. Choose a dense foam that won't sink in when your dog steps up on it. Avoid foam that has a netting or thin cover over it. You can also purchase a block of foam, then cut the measurements, but it's much easier to make from the three separate foam pieces.

Purchase a can of spray-on adhesive, found at most stores that carry the foam. Place the longest piece of foam flat on the floor. Spray the adhesive on the bottom of the 2nd largest piece of foam, then align the smaller piece on top of the large piece. Make sure that the two pieces are aligned at the far end so that the front end forms a step. Spray the adhesive onto the bottom of the smallest piece of foam then align it on top of the middle piece, making sure the farthest end aligns with the other two to form a straight side of foam, while the front forms three steps.

You can make a washable cover for the steps by choosing a very stretchy fabric that's easy to sew. Cut a piece of fabric to the length and height of all the steps combined, then cut 2 pieces in the shape of the side of the foam steps. This can be done by laying the steps on their side and drawing around them, onto the fabric. Cut one more piece that is the size of the bottom of the steps. Cut the center out of the bottom fabric so it will look somewhat like a picture frame, with fabric going around the perimeter of the bottom, but no fabric in the center.