Man Builds Working Elevator For His Elderly Dog — Internet Collectively Melts

When Max the Labrador turned 14, climbing stairs became difficult. His hips, worn by age, made each step slow and clearly uncomfortable. His owner of those 14 years, retired engineer Frank Colby, watched this for exactly two weeks before deciding there was an engineering solution to this problem. Six weeks and $1,200 in materials later, Max has his own elevator.

The Build

Frank — who spent 35 years as a mechanical engineer — designed and built a fully functional lift system running alongside the staircase in his home. It uses a simple platform, a pulley system, and a motor salvaged from a garage door opener. Two large buttons (one labeled UP, one DOWN, both oversized for paw-pressing potential) control the movement. The platform is carpeted in Max’s favorite color (Frank chose “the brown one because he’s a lab, seemed fitting”). It rises and descends at a speed Frank specifically calibrated to be gentle on Max’s anxiety.

Does Max Use It?

Yes. Enthusiastically. And apparently with increasing confidence. Early footage shows Max being coaxed onto the platform with treats. Current footage shows Max positioning himself on the platform and looking at Frank expectantly until the button is pressed. “He’s figured out the routine,” Frank says in the video. “If I’m slow, he gives me a look. It’s a very specific look.”

The Response

The video has been shared by animal welfare organizations, engineering associations, and seemingly every person on the internet who has ever loved a dog. Multiple companies have reached out to Frank about commercializing the design. He’s considering it. Max is indifferent. Max has an elevator.