Dear Answer Angel Ellen: My lovable 90-pound collie, Oliver, is getting old and his back legs are not what they used to be and he has great trouble getting into the back of my SUV for our frequent outings. I’m not as strong as I used to be so, it is nearly impossible to lift him into the car.

The problem is that the dog ramps I’ve found are too narrow for his large body. I’ve tried an array of products but they’re not wide enough and too slippery. I’ve asked other owners of large older dogs at the dog park for recommendations but they’re having similar problems.

Any guidance you can provide would be welcome!

--Phil B.

Dear Phil: I too am a dog lover, although my 10-year-old, 10-pound pet is easily hoisted into the car.

The widest ramp my search for you has turned up is 20 inches, available in an array of models—all of which claim they are “widest in the market”--for under $120 on amazon.com.

But perhaps width is not your real problem. Consider portable, foldable steps (aka “car ladder”), which Oliver might find less daunting and more familiar than a ramp. Some models have surfaces covered in rubber or carpet to reduce slipping.

Let’s hear from readers who have solved this problem for their large, enfeebled pets. One cautionary note, with purchases like this: You usually get what you pay for, and lower price frequently means lower quality so check out user comments and ratings before hitting the buy button. Free returns are always a plus, especially when buying products that will cost a fortune in postage to return.

One more suggestion: Check online reddit.com communities of owners of large dog breeds for DIY suggestions or repurposing other items that might work.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I am a recent convert to wearing sunscreen (at least on my face) no matter what the weather is. I know. I should have done this years ago to prevent wrinkles, etc., but better now than never.

My problem is that after trying a bunch of options, I still haven’t found one that isn’t greasy, or doesn’t make my makeup run or that will blend in thoroughly without leaving a pasty white film on my dark complexion.

--Brianna P.

Dear Brianna: For some years now, I’ve recommended elta MD SPF 41 broad spectrum tinted face sunscreen, but the tint is too light for many complexions so I am happy to see that there are other shade options: clear, rosy and deep tinted, which are better for many of us.

Amazon.com carries some but not all of the shades so eltamd.com is also a shopping option in the $41-$45 range. When available, the tube is preferable to the pump for getting out the last drops of this expensive stuff.

Meantime, a reliable and picky friend recommends Kopari roll-on sheer (untinted) Sun Shield On-The-Glow Sheer Stick Sunscreen SPF 40 that she uses just on her face (koparibeauty.com, amazon.com, 1 oz., $29). There also are Kopari tinted body options in SPF 30 and 45.

Angelic Readers 1

“Feeling Ignored E.M.” asks: “Is there anything out there to help curl or really volumize fine, limp, thin hair? All the gels, mousse, special shampoos, hair irons and blow dryers on the market today flatten hair. Cosmetologists aren’t trained or willing to give permanents anymore! I’m stuck now having to make pin curls with bobby-pins like in the 1940s.”

Angelic Readers 2

Suggestions for Anna M. who can’t find a decent selection of pantyhose any more:

From Jane H.: “I too prefer to wear hose for work and special events. My preferred brand is Hanes Silk Reflections Control Top with reinforced toe. The perfect most natural shade for me is 'Little Color.' There are many other Silk Reflections options. The control top is not uncomfortable or too restrictive. I order them from hanes.com ($14). Amazon.com too carries Silk Reflections in a range of options ($11.53 and up). Your readers might also find them at Hanes outlet stores. I have worn these for many years. They are perfect in every way.” GWW says: “I’ve found a great pantyhose called Sheertex—never gets runs or holes (sheertex.com, macys.com and more, $24). Hannah P. writes, “I loved getting rid of pantyhose and getting thigh highs. They were much more comfortable. They had all the positive of pantyhose without the struggle to put them on.”

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