PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step Review: Easy to Install & Durable
Welcome to our in-depth review of the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step! This innovative product is designed to assist your furry friend in getting in and out of your vehicle with ease while keeping their joints, hips, and legs protected. With its easy setup, high-traction steps, and durable construction, this hitch step is a must-have for pet owners who frequently travel with their dogs in SUVs and trucks. Join us as we delve into the features, benefits, and customer feedback to help you make an informed decision about this pet-friendly accessory.
Product Description
The PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step is a must-have accessory for pet owners who want to make traveling with their furry friends safer and more convenient. This innovative product is designed to help your dog get in and out of the car with ease while protecting their joints, hips, and legs.
One of the standout features of this hitch step is its easy setup. It can be quickly installed in any 2-inch vehicle hitch receiver and adjusted to the height of your vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit every time. The high-traction steps provide a secure surface for your dog to walk on, reducing the risk of slipping and boosting their confidence during car rides.
For added convenience, the hitch step folds down for travel and can be left in place while you're driving. Its compact design makes it a great alternative to bulky vehicle ramps, saving space in your vehicle while still providing a safe way for your pet to enter and exit.
Built to last, the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step is durable and independently safety tested to support pets up to 200 pounds. With dimensions of 20 inches in length, 18 inches in width, and 12 inches in height, this hitch step is suitable for use with SUVs and trucks, making it a versatile and essential accessory for pet owners on the go.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Usability and Folding Feature: Buyers rave about the amazing usability of the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step. The folding aspect allows for easy installation and removal, making it convenient to leave on the vehicle at all times.
High-Traction Steps: The non-slip and large steps provide secure footing for pets, even for larger breeds like Huskies. This feature ensures safety and ease of use for pets getting in and out of vehicles.
Sturdy and Well-Made: Customers appreciate the durability and quality construction of the hitch step. The sturdy metal material ensures longevity and reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for pet owners.
Cons:
Limited Compatibility: Some users with vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler and FJ Cruiser mentioned challenges due to the size of their rear tires or the need for additional steps. This limits the hitch step's compatibility with certain vehicle models.
Need for Extra Step: A few buyers highlighted the necessity for a third step, especially for taller vehicles like the FJ Cruiser. This could be a drawback for pet owners with larger or older pets requiring more assistance.
Installation Challenges: While the product is generally easy to assemble, a few customers faced issues with installation due to specific trailer hitch configurations. This could pose a hurdle for those with unique vehicle setups.
Customer Reviews
The PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers, with an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Let's take a look at what some buyers had to say:
"Usability is amazing, and the folding aspect allows you to leave the steps on the vehicle all the time if you want (but they come off very easily). I... (5 stars)"
"A good friend recommended the Petsafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step because my 11 yo German shepherd mix has been working with a canine physical therapist... (5 stars)"
"Each step is non-slip and large enough for my husky to walk up. Downside is the rear tire on my jeep wrangler is really big and that prevents the step... (4 stars)"
"AMAZING! I will explain the picture below. To start, I want to say we LOVE this! We have two 100+lb dogs and a lifted jeep wrangler plus my husband is... (5 stars)"
"It is durable and easy to assemble. However for an FJ Cruiser it really needs a 3rd step. The distance from getting in the FJ from the top step is way... (1 star)"
"I ordered one, and had to return it, unfortunately. It is a well-made, easy to install product. Unfortunately, between the way my trailer hitch is ins... (5 stars)"
Customers appreciate the durability, ease of installation, and overall usability of the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step, with most users giving it a top rating for its functionality and convenience.
Conclusion
The PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step is a top-notch solution for pet owners looking to assist their furry friends in getting in and out of vehicles with ease. With a focus on joint protection, easy setup, and high-traction steps, this product excels in providing convenience and safety for pets up to 200 lb. The compact design and durable construction make it a reliable choice for SUVs and trucks.
The positive feedback from buyers highlights the usability and convenience of the hitch step, with many appreciating the ability to leave it on the vehicle when not in use. The high-traction steps give pets confidence and prevent slipping, while the folding feature allows for easy storage and transport.
While the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step may not be the most budget-friendly option on the market, its quality and functionality make it a worthwhile investment for pet owners who prioritize their pet's well-being and comfort during travel. Overall, this hitch step receives a strong recommendation for pet owners looking for a reliable and safe solution for helping their pets access vehicles effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step suitable for all types of vehicles?
- Yes, this dog hitch step is designed to be easily installed on any 2-inch vehicle hitch, making it suitable for a wide range of SUVs and trucks.
What is the weight capacity of the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step?
- This dog hitch step is capable of supporting pets weighing up to 200 pounds, providing a sturdy and reliable platform for your furry friends.
Are the steps on the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step non-slip?
- Yes, each step of this hitch step is designed to be non-slip, providing traction and stability for pets as they climb in and out of the vehicle.
Can the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step be easily folded down for travel?
- Absolutely, the folding aspect of this hitch step allows for convenient storage and transportation, making it versatile for on-the-go pet owners.
Does the size of the rear tire on a vehicle affect the usability of the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step?
- While the steps are large enough for most breeds, some users with vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler mentioned that the size of rear tires can impact the usability, so it's recommended to consider this factor.
Is the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step easy to assemble?
- Yes, users have found this product to be easy to install, with many praising its durability and user-friendly assembly process.
Can the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Hitch Step accommodate larger pets?
- Yes, customers with dogs over 100 pounds have reported success with this hitch step, showcasing its ability to support larger pets effectively.
