We have a beagle mix that has hit 10 years old and finding the hardwood treads on the upper stairs scary and won’t climb them. She navigates the stairs to the basement that are linoleum covered stairs with the metal cap just fine. We’re pretty sure it’s a grip issue and I was considering cutting some shallow grooves for grip into the treads. There weren’t many examples of this idea out there that I could find. The solution is rather permanent considering the other stick-on options.
We will be selling the house in 2-3 years and I’m wondering what sort of reaction I might get from buyers. Thoughts?
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I had the same "slipping" issue with my 9 pound Yorkie. I ended up cutting some carpet squares from welcome mats and it worked like a charm. I think the carpet texture would be way more comfortable than grooved wood.
That doesn't look bad at all. Double stick tape?
Thanks!
It's a double stick tape called "Fibatape". It's not a permanent (read messy) adhesive but does a good job of holding the carpet squares in place. If one does come loose just reposition it and stand on the carpet to re-apply it.
Our lab has issues on our smooth floors, runner rugs have greatly helped her. I was going to suggest something similar to this as well.
We recently bought some stair tread mats from L L Bean to cover our wooden treads for better traction. Our dogs had the same problem. They sell a material that does not slip around at all on wooden treads and has no tape or anything to hold them in place. Simply pick them up if you change your mind. They're called Waterhog Mats. I had my doubts but they work extremely well for providing some traction and do not move around. They are also easy to pick up and clean if the dogs track in mud from outside. The dogs seem to like them too.
Whatever you do I would suggest that you don't mutilate the treads, especially if you intend to sell the house.