Last Updated on 11 November, 2025 by Robyn Dockendorf

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open trail, your faithful four-legged companion bounding alongside you, their tail wagging with pure joy. Every rustle in the underbrush is an adventure, every new path a chance for discovery. 

But imagine, if you will, a sudden shift in this idyllic scene. Your dog yelps, pulling up short with a paw held off the ground or showing signs of a snakebite. The trek back to the car is miles away and undoubtedly further than your pup can manage.

That’s where a dog rescue sling comes into play. It’s a piece of gear you may never need to use, but it could be a lifesaver if the time comes. In this post, we’ll give you dog rescue sling reviews by comparing 5 of the best dog rescue slings so you can choose the one that fits your fur baby the most.

An article from the Journal Animals found that musculoskeletal injuries were the most commonly reported injuries in active dogs. This includes sprains, strains, fractures, inflammation, and dislocations.

This post includes affiliate links but rest assured that we only recommend items we would use ourselves. And if you choose to make a purchase, we receive a small commission. No sponsorships, just the truth about our favorite finds.

Before we begin, here’s an overview of the five dog rescue slings we are recommending:

1. Fido Pro Airlift

The Airlift by Fido Pro emergency dog rescue sling sets the standard for dog rescue slings. It packs down small enough to fit into a day pack and works with almost any dog size.

The story behind the Fido Pro Airlift is remarkable. While on a skiing adventure with his dog, owner Paul Hoskinson accidentally clipped his dog’s leg with the tip of his skis, rendering his faithful companion unable to walk.

It made him think about other adventurous dog owners and how they would get a large dog out of the backcountry if injured. Thus, the Fido Pro Airlift was created. And in case you were wondering, his dog made a full recovery!

Pros

• Easy Setup: The sling is straightforward to set up and adjust.
• Lightweight: The Fido weighs just 8oz (9.5oz for XL). Besides the Pack-A-Paw, it’s the lightest rescue sling.
• Fits most dogs: The Fido Pro accommodates a wide range of dog sizes and types, from 20lb to 150lb. It even features an XL accessory that allows a second person to help carry the dog.
• Made in the USA: You can feel good about supporting a company in the USA.

Cons

It can’t all be good, right? The Fido Pro Airlift is what we use as a dog rescue sling, but that doesn’t mean it’s flawless. Here are some of the downsides to the Airlift:

• Comfort: The Airlift isn’t very comfortable for the person or dog. There’s no padding, and the material that holds the dog feels similar to a tarp.
• Specific sizing unavailable: The sizing is based solely on the length from your dog’s back leg to the front leg and nothing else, so the sizing isn’t specific to the shape of your dog.

Best Uses For The Fido Pro Airlift

The Fido Pro Airlift is excellent for any rescue situation, but it’s beneficial for these activities:

• Hiking
• Backpacking
• Cross-country skiing

Check out our in-depth look at the Fido Pro Airlift for a closer look at this dog rescue sling! Also, consider checking out their Panza Harness as an everyday harness for your pup.

2. Mountain Dogware Pack-A-Paw

The creator of the Pack-A-Paw may not have experienced an accident firsthand, but when he read about a dog that broke its leg and was left behind, he knew he had to do something.

Thus, he created the Pack-A-Paw rescue sling so no dog owner would have to leave their faithful companion behind. Let’s check out the pros and cons of this life-saving piece of dog carry gear.

Pros

If the Fido Pro sets the standard, the Pack-A-Paw is pushing the boundaries of a dog rescue sling. They put your dog’s comfort and safety ahead of everything.

• Lightweight: The Pack-A-Paw is the lightest dog rescue sling on our list. Size M weighs 6.7oz, while the L weighs 7.8oz. 
• Easy to use: The setup for the Pack-A-Paw is similar to the Fido – straightforward, simple, and uncomplicated.
• Front or back carry: You can carry your pup on your back or front with the Pack-A-Paw.
• Free shipping: Each purchase comes with free shipping.
• Made in the USA: When you purchase from Mountain Dogware, you support a business here in the USA.

Cons

Every dog carrier sling comes with its downsides, though the Pack-A-Paw has few. It’s a solid, good-quality sling.

• Sizing: There are fewer sizing options for the Pack-A-Paw than there are for some of the other slings. However, it does work on a vast range of weights.
• Comfort: This dog rescue sling is meant for emergencies and is not designed for comfort.

Best Uses For The Mountain Dogware Pack-A-Paw

Mountain Dogware’s Pack-A-Paw is an excellent emergency dog rescue sling. Consider using it for the following activities:

• Hiking
• Backpacking
• Cross-country skiing
• Ascending/descending ladders and stairs

A hiking harness is another piece of essential gear for your canine companion. Head over to our article on the best dog hiking harnesses for a list of our top choices!

3. Saker K-911 Rescue Sling + Harness

If you’re into extreme outdoor activities like rock climbing, cross-country skiing, or backcountry camping, then the Saker may be a good choice.

Inspired by the tried and trusted adventure companies of Arc’teryx and Patagonia, the Saker K-911 Rescue Sling is one of the toughest rescue harnesses on our list.

Pros

• Made for adventure: If you love adventuring with your dog, the Saker K-911 is the rescue dog sling of choice. Made with highly durable, rugged materials for any adventure.
• Comfort: With built-in foam shoulder pads, the K-911 is a dog rescue sling with comfort in mind.
• Adjustable: 6 adjustment points help it fit any dog and any person.
• Wide design: When combined with the Ascension Extension, the K-911 rescue sling has a wide design to help with stability over rough terrain.

The Saker also has many harness accessories that can be purchased to customize your adventure gear. You can visit their harness accessories shop for a closer look.

Cons

The biggest complaint about the K-911 is the complicated nature of the sling. It must be combined with the Ascension Extension or the Dog Pack to become a rescue sling.

• Complicated: The K-911 Rescue Sling must be combined with a harness to become a dog rescue sling. Combining the two can be complicated, especially in an emergency.
• Price: The Saker is the most expensive dog rescue sling on our list, with a combined sale price of $150.
• Weight: When the rescue sling is put together, it weighs up to 2.19 lbs, making it the heaviest sling on our list.

Best Uses For Saker K-911

The K-911 dog rescue sling is incredibly durable and well-crafted. It’s meant for a wide variety of activities:

• Hiking
• Backpacking
• Rock Climbing
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Protecting your pup in the car

Emergencies are never easy or fun, but it’s especially difficult when you’re in an unfamiliar area or traveling full-time. Our guide on finding veterinary care on the go sheds light on finding the best care for your pup while traveling.

4. Ruffwear BackTrak Dog Evacuation Kit

Unlike some other companies on our list, Ruffwear offers more than rescue slings on its site. They craft top-of-the-line harnesses, leashes, boots, jackets, toys, bowls, and more.

The BackTrak is just one of their many innovative pieces of gear meant to keep your dog safe, comfortable, and happy while joining you on adventures.

Pros

• Easy setup: Color-coded straps make putting the harness together in stressful situations easy.
• Muzzle: The BackTrak Kit has a lightweight muzzle that can be used if your dog is in pain and may become reactive during first-aid procedures.
• Front and back carry: The BackTrak can be worn on the front or back, giving you adjustability based on your and your dog’s needs.
• Comfort: The straps are lightly padded, giving the carrier some comfort without sacrificing weight.

Cons

• Price: The Back Trak is a little pricey at $119.95. It’s not the most expensive, but it’s over the average.
• Weight: The BackTrak supports the lowest weights at 103lbs. While this is satisfactory for most dogs, XL dogs cannot use this sling. 

Best Uses For The Ruffwear BackTrack

Ruffwear’s gear is meant for most outdoor activities. It’s thoroughly tested in the field to ensure it’s sturdy enough to stand up to any adventure and durable enough to last.

The BackTrak is best used for these activities:

• Hiking
• Backpacking
• Camping
• Skiing

Always train your dog to use a rescue sling before you take them out on a hike. Training treats are a great way to entice your dog to learn how to use new gear, and we have a list of the 5 best training treats for hiking dogs right here!

5. Rock and Rescue Dog Lift Harness

The Rock and Rescue Dog Lift Harness is the most expensive on our list, but it’s also the most rugged and durable harness that can hold up to literally any adventure you and your dog go on, from mountaineering to skydiving.

The harness is specifically designed for search and rescue dogs and even allows your pup to be airlifted by a helicopter in dire situations.

Pros

• Adjustable: The harness includes a four-point adjustable strap system to help fit most dog shapes and sizes.
• Made in the USA: You can feel proud to purchase a product that’s made right here in the United States.
• Machine Washable: If the Rock and Rescue harness gets dirty, just toss it in the wash!
• Rugged: Designed for search and rescue K9s, this harness can stand up to even the most adventurous endeavors.

Cons

• Price: The Rock and Rescue Harness is the most expensive on our list at nearly $200.
• Weight: In addition to being the most pricey, it’s also one of the heavier slings on our list, weighing in at 30 ounces (1.875 pounds).

Why You Might Need a Dog Rescue Sling

A dog rescue sling is a piece of gear you can use to carry your dog in an emergency, such as if they get injured and can’t walk. The slings usually pack down pretty small so that you can fit them right in your hiking bag.

Speaking of hiking bags, if you’re wondering what else to put in your hiking bag for your pup, check out our guide on dog hiking gear essentials.

So, when might you need to bust out your dog rescue sling? Unfortunately, if you have to use the sling, chances are your pup is in a not-so-great situation. Let’s check out some scenarios.

Injury

Hiking with your dog can mean anything from a smooth paved path to the wilds of the backcountry. The terrain is varied and often unpredictable, from rocky and root-filled to dirt and mud. 

As your dog explores the path and its surroundings, the terrain might get the best of them. Here are some common injuries that may require you to carry your dog back to the car:

• Paw injury: Your dog may step on a piece of broken glass, a sharp rock, or a splintered twig.
• Sprain/Strain: If you’re hiking on rough terrain, your pup may sprain or strain their leg. This can happen if they jump from a tall rock or ledge as well.

You’ll be glad you brought a dog rescue sling in these instances, especially if you hike with a large dog.

Wildlife Encounters

As you strap on your boots and leash up your pet to explore a new trail, be aware that you are stepping into the home of wild animals. Wildlife can be unpredictable, especially when raising young or when food is scarce. 

Curious dogs may get injured in a conflict with wildlife such as deer, moose, coyotes, or even bears and mountain lions. Hey, our 80-pound pittie was attacked by a mountain lion – It happens! Don’t worry; he lived to tell the tale and was a local hero. The lion was okay, too!

On these extremely rare occasions when wildlife encounters turn nasty, a rescue sling can be used to carry your injured pup out of the wilderness. Check out our guide on what to do if you see a wild animal on a hike for more advice on dealing with wildlife on your hike.

Snake Bites

There are over 3,000 species of snakes worldwide, with hundreds calling North America their home. About 30 of those snakes are venomous, most being rattlesnakes.

When your dog is bitten by a snake, you should avoid letting your dog walk on their own if you can. You want their heart rate as low as possible and to take off any pressure on the bite site.

A rescue sling can help get your pup safely back to the car and immediately to a vet (don’t wait!). You can read more about what to do if you see a snake on a hike here, and the steps to take for a dog bitten by a snake.

Extreme Temperatures

Our canine companions are just as susceptible to extreme temperatures as we are. Whether you misjudged how well your dog can tolerate the heat or cold, or the weather suddenly changed, your dog may not be able to handle it.

A dog rescue sling won’t warm your dog up or cool them down, but it can assist you in carrying your furry friend back to the car if they are suffering from heat exhaustion or cold stress.

A dog rescue sling is an opportunity to be prepared for any scenario while hiking with your dog. It gives us so much peace of mind when trekking miles into the forest or up a mountain!

How Does A Dog Rescue Sling Work?

There are many types of dog rescue slings, all of which work slightly differently. At its fundamental core, a dog rescue sling immobilizes your dog and allows you to lift it and carry it either on your back or in the front.

There are a few similarities between every dog rescue sling:

• Adjustable shoulder straps to carry the dog (front or back)
• A device to hold your dog (usually with leg holes)
• A small stuff sack to pack the sling in and place in a hiking pack

The major differences are in the finer details, such as the layout of the sling, whether or not it has back leg holes, and whether you carry it in the front or on the back.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Rescue Sling

Even though you may never need it, it’s essential to choose your dog rescue sling carefully. Many factors can affect your decision, so take your time and pick what’s best for you and your canine companion.

Here are some things to consider when picking out your dog rescue sling:

Size Of Your Dog

Some rescue slings are more specific to your dog’s size than others. For example, the Fido Pro and Pack-A-Paw are more geared toward larger dogs.

The shape and breed of your dog are also something to consider. Is your dog exceptionally tall, like a Great Dane? Or exceptionally wide and short, like an English bulldog. 

Check out how the rescue sling measures your dog – is it the circumference of its chest? Distance between legs? Or based solely on weight. This will give you a better idea of how to fit a dog rescue sling to your specific pup properly.

Your Activities

Think about what adventures you plan on taking your canine companion. Are you more of a casual day hiker or a hike-the-entire-Appalachian-Trail hiker? Do you ski? Rock climb? Camp?

Some rescue slings are made tougher than others for more adventurous outdoor activities, such as the Saker K-911 and the Rock and Rescue. Others, like the Fido Pro, are universal. Check out our article on how to master hiking with your dog for tips on taking your pup on adventures.

Ease Of Use

One of the most important aspects of a dog rescue sling is its ease of use. You don’t want to waste time struggling to put the harness together when your pup is injured.

The BackTrak from Ruffwear has color-coded straps to help with quick assembly, making it one of the easiest to use. The Saker K-911 is the most complicated, as you must attach two different items to make a rescue sling.

Comfort

Comfort may be low on your list of priorities when your furry pal is injured or sick. However, it can make a bad situation even worse when the rescue sling is unbearably uncomfortable, and you have to walk in it for miles back to the car.

Rescue harnesses aren’t cheap, so investing in one that you and your dog will love is vital.

Some rescue slings include built-in padded straps like the Ruffwear BackTrak and the Saker K-911. Others, like the Fido Pro and Pack-A-Paw, are minimalistic and have no padding.

Picking the best dog rescue harness involves many considerations. So, take your time, research, and pick what best suits you and your adventure dog.

Packing Up The Best Dog Rescue Slings

You never hope to use a dog rescue sling, but you’re glad you have it when the situation arises. Dog injuries have a small window of time when they go from mildly problematic to serious.

Dog rescue slings are helpful in emergencies and give us pet parents peace of mind when taking our doggos on adventures. It’s essential to do your research and choose the best dog rescue sling for your specific pup. Please consider your dog’s size, needs, and the sling’s comfort and ease of use. 

Do you use a dog rescue sling? Are there any tips we may have left out? Let us know in the comments below! We love hearing from our fellow adventurous pup parents.

After all, our dogs are our family, and we want what’s best for them. Consider investing in a dog rescue sling to keep your pup safe on your next adventure! Until next time, give your pup an extra pet from us and keep exploring!

For more hiking and pet tips, check out the Dirtbags with Furbags Blog!