While I hope to never have to use this, watching the instructive video once + the color coded system made this really easy to understand and my dog was totally fine with going in. I was actually surprised at how easy it was to pick up my 57 lb dog and how well the weight was distributed, though I did find myself wishing I could adjust the height where she hangs ever so slightly. She has long legs, so on my frame we just keep bashing legs awkwardly, which I imagine would be insanely uncomfortable on a long hike back. BUT it certainly beats the alternative if I didn't have this.