Use a sling made of fabric (an old winter scarf might work, depending on the size and weight of your dog) to help lift the rear end when needed. Place it close to the rear legs, tie it loosely to provide a 'tucked in feeling' then tie it again at the top to form a 'handle.' There is also a company that makes slings for farm animals and can tailor one for your dog: Monks Slings, 800.377.9454.

A product manufactured by Python Products, Inc., is available at Pet smart for about $8.95. A long fabric wrap with Velcro tabs and handles, it's meant for carrying snakes. However, it is also useful for raising the rear end of a dog.

Some other ideas:

(1) Use a vinyl briefcase that unzips all around. When it's upzipped, wrap it around the dog's torso and grab the handles on top.

(2) Use a canvas log carrier in the same fashion, i.e., wrapping it around the dog's torso and grabbing the handles on top.

(3) If descending the stairs is creating stress on the dog's front legs, put a t-shirt over the dog's front end. Hold the t-shirt, pulling up and back on it, to relieve some of the weight on the front end and to prevent slipping.

The Northland Newfoundland Club is selling stretchers and slings for large dogs as a fund-raising effort for their organization. The stretchers and slings are designed for the large dog. There are many situations in which stretchers and slings are very necessary. For example, when large dogs are injured or ill, moving them presents a serious challenge. Or, in cases of injury, a dog's movement may cause additional trauma unless assistance is given. Then, too, a dog may need help after some types of surgery. And, when a dog has hip problems, old age may bring with it the need for regular assistance in getting up and in walking.

Peggy Terl wrote us about the BottomsUp Leash as follows: "I wanted to tell you about a terrific product we found that would be a great help for senior dogs and their families. Our Colby (12 year old GSD) suffers from spinal degeneration and has had a lot of trouble walking. Someone sent me an article that mentioned a product called 'the BottomsUp Leash.' We bought one and it's fabulous! It has given our boy his mobility and dignity back. Best of all, even I can handle this 80-lb dog easily." Remember, however, that not all dogs are comfortable initially with assistance of this kind. You may have to use treats and encouragement to convince your dog that it is acceptable.