Taking Rover for a Ride Gets Easier With Portable SUV Access System for Dogs

REDMOND, Wash., Oct. 2, 2003 -- Lifting large dogs with joint problems in and out of SUVs or trucks is not most pet owners' idea of a good time.

Until now, the most compact foldable dog ramp was three feet long, making it awkward to take along. Nu-Tec Designs, which specializes in innovative hitch products, has found a solution to that problem with Pup-Up(TM), a portable access system that provides dog owners with a compact, lightweight, stable and flexible way to get their pets in and out of their vehicles. Available at www.pup-up.com.

"Current ramps are six feet long and simply rest on the edge of the tailgate or cargo area. They can sag & wobble, making many dogs uncomfortable or unwilling to use them," says Nu-Tec President Bill Schlicht.

Pup-Up is an innovative hitch-mounted platform with an attachable, folding ramp that can be used separately or together depending on the needs of the dog. The 13"x15" step platform only weighs 4 pounds and has a 300-pound load rating. It simply slides into the hitch receiver and stores in a tote bag when not in use. Secured with a hitch pin it can be left in for round trips to the park or the vet. Many dogs only need the step platform and the ramp can be added later if needed.

For dogs that need more help, the ramp attaches securely to the platform; it does not sag or wobble. The complete system only weighs 17 pounds, folds to 23"x16" and stows in a compact, durable tote.

Pup-Up is not just for dogs -- the platform is multi-functional and also serves as a solid step platform for loading gear onto the SUV roof, as a seat at outdoor events or for putting on shoes or boots. Perfect for active, outdoor oriented SUV and truck owners. The ramp allows for easier loading of golf clubs, bicycles and cargo.

Nu-Tec's flagship product, the Flip-Step(R), a fold-down hitch receiver step with a 14-LED brake/running light was selected by Motor Trend as one of the best new SUV/truck accessories for 2002. See www.flip-step.com.