RE: TIME IS RUNNING OUT.....................
I'm not sure about the pet store gates, but be wary of any gates that have crossbars. If the gate has a square or diamond inset design big enough for a child's foot, the child can climb up the gate. The other one that I've heard is pretty good and that I know is available at TRU is the First Year's Hands Free Gate. It has a step pedal that opens the gate. However, it's a pressure-mounted gate, so it would work at the bottom of the stairs, but not the top. Good luck.
Mommy to Justin (13 years) & Ashlyn (8 years)