Pets are more than just animals—They’re cherished family members. Whether your dog is loyally following you from room to room or your cat loves lounging on the stairs, your home should be a place where everyone feels safe and cared for, including your four-legged companions.
Acorn Stairlifts are designed to bring greater freedom and peace of mind to people with limited mobility, but when you have pets in the home, it’s important to think about how they interact with your stairlift. With a few thoughtful steps, you can enjoy the comfort and security of your stairlift while making sure your pets stay safe.
Can Pets Ride a Stairlift?
It's a question we hear often: “Can my pet ride the stairlift with me?” While it may seem like a convenient solution, stairlifts are specially built for human use only. They’re carefully engineered with weight limits, motion sensors, and seating designs that aren’t intended for animals.
Allowing a pet to ride the stairlift can pose safety risks for both the user and the animal. The good news? You don’t need to share your ride. There are simple ways to keep pets safe around the stairlift while still enjoying all the benefits it offers.
7 Pet-Safe Stairlift Tips for a Safer Home
1. Always Check for Pets Before Operating the Lift
Take a moment before using your stairlift to make sure your pet isn’t lying on the stairs or nearby. Many dogs like to rest on steps, and cats can be surprisingly sneaky—so a quick glance can go a long way in preventing accidents.
2. Clear the Stairs of Pet Clutter
Toys, food bowls, or pet beds can easily become obstacles. Be sure to keep the stairway tidy and free of any pet-related items before operating your stairlift.
3. Count on the Safety Sensors—But Stay Vigilant
Every Acorn stairlift comes with built-in sensors that detect obstructions and stop the lift automatically. While this offers excellent protection, it’s still wise to double-check that your pet is out of harm’s way before moving the lift.
4. Train Pets to Avoid the Stairlift Area
Use positive reinforcement to encourage pets to keep their distance from the stairlift. If necessary, you can install a baby gate or pet barrier to prevent them from getting too close during operation.
5. Park the Lift When Not in Use
When your stairlift isn’t in use, make it a habit to park it safely at the top or bottom of the stairs. This keeps the lift secure and out of reach for curious pets.
6. Fold Up the Seat, Footrest, and Armrests
Acorn stairlifts are designed to fold neatly when not in use, making them more compact and leaving the stairs clearer. This makes the area less tempting for pets to explore—and safer for everyone.
7. Talk to Acorn About Tailored Advice
Every pet has its own personality. If you have a particularly playful pup or an adventurous cat, Acorn’s friendly team can help you find safety solutions that match your needs and your pet’s behavior.
Look Out for Your Pet’s Needs, Too
As pets get older, they may face their own challenges with stairs. Consider using a pet ramp, placing essentials on one level, or adjusting routines to make their life a bit easier—Just as your stairlift helps make yours more comfortable.
Creating a Pet-Friendly Home with Acorn Stairlifts
Creating a safe and accessible living environment doesn’t mean leaving your pets out of the picture. With just a few simple adjustments, you can maintain the freedom your stairlift gives you while ensuring your furry companions stay happy and safe.
Because whether they’re curled up by your feet or waiting patiently for you at the top of the stairs, pets deserve the same level of care and consideration as every other family member in the home.
