October 12, 2024, 6:03 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Stairs or escalator? Many of us face this decision several times a day. This choice is especially important when you have a dog with you. A veterinarian explains why.
In many everyday situations, elevators and escalators make life easier for us. Especially in train stations, when traveling with a heavy suitcase, they are a comfort. But they are also commonly found in office buildings or shopping centers. However, many pet owners are unaware that escalators or elevators can also pose dangers—particularly for our dogs.
Elevator or Escalator with a Dog? There’s Much to Consider
“Escalators and elevators regularly cause us emergencies,” says Tina Hölscher, a veterinarian with Aktion Tier. During an escalator ride, animals can suffer injuries to their claws from getting caught or torn. Sometimes they even get completely trapped and ripped out. Severe pain and heavy bleeding are possible, and the healing process can be prolonged. The paw is only fully functional again once the claw horn has grown back a bit.
The animal protection organization Tasso also points out that dogs should not walk on an escalator alone. The animal is unaware of the risks on the escalator. Many owners seem unaware as well, as Tasso director Philip McCreight criticizes in a press release. “We therefore wish for clearer warnings. The small signs often placed at the foot of the escalator are easily overlooked or not taken seriously,” the animal rights advocate criticizes, appealing to transport companies and department stores to provide clearer warnings.
When in Doubt, Take the Stairs
Therefore, Tasso’s advice: Small dogs can be carried, and responsible pet owners should use the stairs or an elevator with large dogs. But caution: Even when entering the elevator, they must be careful to ensure, for example, that the leash does not get caught. This can actually be life-threatening if only the human or only the dog makes it into the elevator before the door closes. The partner at the other end of the leash remains outside. If the elevator starts moving, the leash and collar tighten. This can have dramatic consequences.
Veterinarian Hölscher therefore recommends dog owners use the stairs. If there’s no other option, the dog should ideally be on a short lead. Small dogs can, of course, be carried for a short distance. However, before any outing, one should always ask: “Does my dog really need to come along now?” Busy shopping centers, for example, mean one thing for dogs: stress.
With material from dpa