Pet Steps

Offer your dog or cat a leg up with this simple project.

Photography by Brian Francis

Aches and pains can affect us all--including our pets. So for a helpful boost onto the bed or into the family car, build these convenient steps for your family's furry friend.

GeneralInstructions

Cut and label the parts as needed, using the Cut List and Cutting Diagram as guides and adjusting for fit. All parts are attached with wood glue and 4d finishing nails.

Step-by-Step

Assemble the sides and risers
- Lay out the (01) sides as shown in Figure 1, and cut them accordingly.
- Attach both the (02) lower riser and the (03) upper riser to the (01) sides as shown in Figure 2.
Add the back brace
- Attach the (04) back brace between the (01) sides so that the piece is flush with the back edges and the bottom of the (01) sides.
Attach the treads
- Position the lower (05) tread against the (03) upper riser, with the overhang equal on both sides. There also will be an overhang on the front. Nail the lower (05) tread to the (01) sides and the (02) lower riser as shown in Figure 2.
- Position the upper (05) tread so that it's flush with the back edges of the (01) sides. Make sure the overhang is equal on the other three sides. Nail the upper (05) tread to the (01) sides and the (03) upper riser as shown in Figure 2.
Apply finishing touches
- Set all nails, and fill all holes. Then sand, prime, and paint.
- Cut sections of doormat or carpet scraps to fit, and attach to the (05) treads using staples. Attach furniture glides to the bottom corners.

Good to know

Thorough coats of Valspar primer and paint on this project will help it weather frequent use by your pet.

Skill Set: Cutting Plywood

To prevent chipping when cutting plywood, place painter's tape or masking tape on the cut line. (If your line is drawn dark enough, it will be visible through the tape.) When cutting with a circular saw, place the best side of the plywood down. When cutting on a table saw, place the best side up.

Illustration

Cut List

Part	Material	Size (in inches)	Quantity
(01) sides	plywood	1/2 x 11 1/4 x 16 1/2	2
(02) lower riser	plywood	1/2 x 5 1/4 x 14 1/2	1
(03) upper riser	plywood	1/2 x 6 x 14 1/2	1
(04) back brace	1 x 10	3/4 x 9 1/4 x 13 1/2	1
(05) treads 2	1 x 10	3/4 x 9 1/4 x 16	2
Finished Dimensions Height: 12 inches Depth: 17 inches Width: 16 inches

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