This works very well for the intended purpose. We have three dogs that we take on frequent trips in our truck and travel trailer. This is long enough and sturdy enough to give our older GSD/Lab mix a steady entry into both. All three of our dogs use it and it gives us peace of mind that they will avoid injury while entering and exiting. We place it in the bed our truck so that it is handy. It has a non-slip texture that works well in the rain, but is not so rough to rub paws. I am an older female with some arthritis in my hands, but if I wear gloves, it does not present a problem for me to open and close it. Love this for the dogs!