DIY Dog Plank

[Lone Star Ranger]

I've built a wooden "gang plank" to help my dogs (Labradors) get on and off the boat. I used 1/4" plywood, measuring 36"x18" and screwed in a 17" long 1"x2" wrapped in a "noodle" to protect the boat's gelcoat. I also attached two long chords to fasten the plank to the boat's railing, and finally used non-slip safety strips to give my dogs better footing. This set up works on both Port and Starboard. I hope this will help anyone else who have 4-legged crew members. 😀

 

[BaseCampAnne]

Great idea! My lab, Gus, might use something like this. It looks like it is well made and I am wondering how heavy it is?

Do you use it as a ramp to get up to the step-in area, or do stretch it it from the dock onto the swim step?

Thanks for sharing this 😀

 

[Lone Star Ranger]

It's not that heavy, the board is only 1/4". I'd say maybe 3-5 lbs?

The 18" wide plank lays on the step in area, with the "noodle" butted up against the outside of the boat for stability and the opposite side of the plank lays on the dock. The chords are tied to the railings to secure it and hold in place.

 

[Just Limin']

This is an unsolicited, un-paid endorsement of The Long Star Ranger pet Boarding Ramp. We have one on our 25SC and find it a perfect fit. It was worth every penny. No doubt they will soon be offered by catalog companys such as Orvis. Depending on crew member weight, it can also serve to get adults to the pier after raucous dockside celebrations.

 

[Todd]

I got to get one of these things. My 110 lb Malamute is getting old and occasional forgets she can not walk on water.