What flooring is good for dogs?

 

At Floors for Paws, we know that our customers all want the best for their pets but when it comes to our homes, what is the best flooring for dogs? Here, we look at which flooring is good for our four legged friends.

 

When it comes to our homes, we are spoiled for choice – do we want carpet, or ceramic tiles, or laminate or vinyl? But which of these is good flooring for dogs and are we confusing Pet-proof or pet-friendly and what’s the difference?

Ceramic tiles

Arguably a fine-looking flooring solution and practical in terms of maintenance and cleaning, ceramic tiles are cold underfoot and underpaw. Unyielding too, ceramic tiles are hard and uncomfortable to lie on and will cause pain in older, arthritic joints. The smooth finish of ceramic tiles also represents a huge slip hazard to dogs and humans. For young, gangly pups trying to find their feet, and senior dogs trying to maintain their stability, ceramic tiles are hard to navigate safely and pose a serious risk to our pets.

Laminate flooring and solid wood floors

Representing a comparable slip hazard to ceramic tiles for our pets, solid wood floors and laminate flooring have a further disadvantage for pet owners – their reaction to liquid spills. The wood content in laminate floors (its core consists of compressed wood fibres) means it can never be classed as waterproof and, when exposed to excess liquids, will buckle and warp. Similarly, solid wood floors can cause slips and are uncomfortable, and can become seriously discoloured through continuous exposure to moisture.

Carpet

Carpet is lovely for our pets – it’s comfortable to lie on and warm – and nothing beats the feel of a deep pile carpet underfoot for us. Sadly though, we rarely walk barefoot outdoors, unlike our pets, and transfer from their paws can include dirt, mites, pollen and much worse! This unwelcome matter gathers in the carpet pile and can be difficult to clean away effectively. Add to this the sponge effect of carpet when it comes into contact with liquid (think toilet training pups and incontinent senior dogs) and you can see that while carpet is a kind solution to pets, it is not ideal for pet owners.

So, does the elusive solution exist that is not only a dog friendly flooring but that will tick all the boxes for pet owners? At Floors for Paws, we believe it does!

Luxury vinyl flooring from Floor for Paws

At Floors for Paws, we offer three ranges of vinyl flooring, which are all pet friendly and which will keep pet owners very happy too!

The Pawsafe ranges from Floors for Paws

Developed in conjunction with Canine Arthritis Management (CAM), our Pawsafe Domestic range is ideal for any room in the house. Offered as planks or tiles, the range comes in both wood- and stone-effect finishes in a wide choice of colourways. The textured surface layer makes this the best non-slip flooring for dogs as it has the highest slip rating of any vinyl flooring in today’s market and a comfort layer means that older dogs will be able to lie down on it comfortably. Pet owners love this range too as it is scratch resistant, waterproof and easy to maintain, while its great aesthetic will suit any interior.

The Pawsafe Commercial range from Floors for Paws has also been developed alongside the expert veterinarians at CAM. With the same brilliant features and benefits of the Pawsafe Domestic range, the Pawsafe Commercial range is offered as sheet vinyl on the roll. With hardly any joins, depending on the area to be covered, this is a completely waterproof flooring that is hardwearing enough to cope with the high traffic of commercial premises.

Luxury vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws

Our luxury vinyl range offers pet owners a wide choice between wood-effect finishes (great for creating traditional herringbone designs) and a stone-effect look (great for those who want the aesthetic of a ceramic floor).

To find out more about the best flooring for dogs (and their owners!), get in touch with our friendly team by email at info@floorsforpaws.com or by phone on 01522 300218.

Preventing Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: The Importance of Non-Slip Flooring

Hip dysplasia is a common musculoskeletal condition in dogs, particularly in large breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Great Danes. This debilitating condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to instability and eventual degeneration of the joint. While genetics play a significant role in the development of hip dysplasia, there are environmental factors that can contribute to its onset or exacerbate its symptoms.

One often-overlooked factor in the development of hip dysplasia is the type of flooring in a dog’s environment. Slippery surfaces, such as hardwood or tile floors, can exacerbate the symptoms of hip dysplasia by causing dogs to splay their legs outward in an attempt to maintain their balance. This unnatural gait puts additional strain on the hip joints, increasing the risk of injury and accelerating joint degeneration over time. For more information on joint issues and canine arthritis please visit Canine Arthritis Management.

To mitigate the risk of hip dysplasia and alleviate discomfort for dogs already suffering from the condition, pet owners should consider implementing non-slip flooring in their homes. Non-slip flooring provides dogs with better traction and stability, reducing the likelihood of slips, falls, and injuries.

There are several short-term options for non-slip flooring that pet owners can explore, including rubber mats, carpeting, and specialized non-slip coatings. Rubber mats offer excellent traction and can be placed strategically in high-traffic areas where dogs are most likely to walk. Carpeting provides a soft and comfortable surface for dogs to walk on while also offering improved grip compared to hard flooring materials. However, If you prefer to have more hygienic options that will last a lifetime then Floors for paws is for you.

Pawsafe Domestic Range

Our Pawsafe Domestic range is a luxury vinyl plank flooring offering the aesthetic and choice that our customers want. Durable and scratch resistant, the luxurious cushion comfort layer is kind to old bones and sore joints, while the anti-slip wear layer will help your dog not to slip and slide. A textured surface aids traction and allows infirm dogs to move around confidently, without the fear of losing their balance. Available in a choice of plank sizes and a herringbone option, Pawsafe Domestic is low maintenance and, when professionally installed, completely waterproof with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

Pawsafe Commercial Range

Our Pawsafe Commercial range has been developed in conjunction with Canine Arthritis Management (CAM) and when weighing up the best and worst flooring for dogs, it’s easy to see why so many people love this floor. For humans, the range is durable and hardwearing and waterproof when professionally installed. This vinyl flooring is easy to maintain, scratch resistant and comes on a roll in a choice of colours and finishes to create individual looks in any style of interior.

For dogs, this flooring is second to none. It has the highest slip rating of any vinyl flooring currently on the market with a textured upper surface to aid traction. What’s more, its high density, fleece comfort backing gives better cushioning for older, painful joints.

Best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

To chat through your requirements for the best flooring for older dogs, please get in touch, and our friendly sales team will be happy to help. Email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218.

 

Does vinyl flooring need underlay?

At Floors for Paws, we supply the best flooring for dogs in a range of choices. Here, we discuss what is needed for successful installation, whether you have vinyl rolls, luxury vinyl tiles, or luxury vinyl planks.

 

What is underlay?

Many of us with carpet in our homes, or businesses, are familiar with underlay (sometimes also called underlayment). Underlay is the layer between the floor covering and the floor surface (subfloor), designed to provide insulation, shock absorbency, noise reduction and cushioning. Carpet underlay can be made from foam, sponge rubber, felt and recycled crumb rubber.

Do you need underlay for vinyl flooring?

The multi-layer construction of vinyl flooring makes it the only type of flooring that does not require underlay. Our CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) approved Pawsafe Commercial range and Pawsafe Domestic range both feature a comfort backing for insulation and sound absorption, removing the need for underlay.

Do you need underlay for LVT?

LVT (luxury vinyl tile) flooring is supplied in two installation options – click, or glue down. Click flooring features a tongue and groove system similar to laminate flooring, that enables the tiles to interlock or click together in place. Often called floating vinyl flooring, click LVT does require an underlay. Glue down LVT requires no underlay. At Floors for Paws, all our domestic and commercial flooring ranges are glue down.

Do you need an underlay for vinyl plank flooring?

We offer vinyl plank options as part of our Luxury vinyl range and our Pawsafe Domestic range and as both require glue down installation, our vinyl plank flooring does not need conventional underlay.

Do you need underlay for vinyl sheet flooring?

Our Pawsafe Commercial range is supplied in rolls, like carpet, and cut to length to fit the space to be covered. In this way, fewer joins or seams are required when installing the flooring, which makes vinyl sheet flooring the perfect solution for high traffic areas where the flooring is cleaned more than usual and the customer requires a completely waterproof floor. Vinyl sheet flooring is glued into place and needs no underlay.

How to prepare a floor for vinyl flooring

Having told you that none of our vinyl flooring ranges require a traditional underlay, we need to explain what you do need before preparing your subfloor for vinyl flooring.

The subfloor is the surface that your new flooring will sit on and could be floorboards, concrete, or ceramic tiles. Before new vinyl can be installed, the subfloor must be thoroughly and correctly prepared but please note that If your subfloor has old flooring on it such as carpet, old vinyl or lino, this should be removed before preparation begins.

The subfloor should be clear of all nails etc. before being thoroughly vacuumed. Once any damage has been repaired you will need to smooth and level the existing subfloor with a self levelling, smoothing compound such as latex, after a primer has been applied. Once the latex is completely dry – usually at least 24 hours later – your vinyl flooring can be installed. It is worth noting here, that even when installing click vinyl flooring, the subfloor beneath the underlay still needs to be in a smooth, level condition.

Preparing to install luxury vinyl flooring can be daunting which is why we always recommend the services of an authorised Floors for Paws installation engineer. They will carry out all necessary preparation of your floors, prior to installing your new vinyl. We are able to offer a 30-year product guarantee with our Pawsafe Domestic range and a 10-year product guarantee with our Pawsafe Commercial range.

For further details please email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or give our friendly team a call on 01522 300218.

The difference between lino and vinyl

People often call vinyl flooring lino by mistake, thinking they are the same thing. Here, Floors for Paws looks at the differences between these two popular flooring solutions.

 

What is lino?

Lino, or linoleum to give it its correct name, is a type of flooring that was particularly popular in the first half of the 20th century. Invented by Frederick Walton in the mid-1800s, lino is a mixture of linseed oil (hence the name linoleum) with natural materials such as cork dust or wood pulp, and pigments. In terms of maintenance, a lino floor needs to be recoated and waxed every year.

Vinyl flooring

In contrast to lino, vinyl flooring is made from a completely synthetic, manmade material, called PVC (polyvinyl chloride plastic). Vinyl flooring consists of multiple layers that are heated and pressed together. The surface layer gives the flooring its final appearance and is coated for resistance to scratches, liquids and stains.

How to buy vinyl flooring

Where linoleum can only be bought on the roll (like rolls of carpet), vinyl flooring is available on the roll as well as luxury vinyl tiles or luxury vinyl planks. This gives users the opportunity to create patterns in their flooring such as the traditional herringbone pattern of parquet floors.

At Floors for Paws, our ethos has always been to put the welfare of dogs on an equal basis to that of their owners. To this end, we have worked extensively with Canine Arthritis Management to develop a range of flooring that is the best flooring for dogs. So how does lino measure up to vinyl flooring when it comes to our pets? Let’s take a look at the features of the best flooring for dogs which include slip resistance, comfort, water resistance, and low maintenance in order to keep dogs and their owners happy.

Comfort

The multi-layer composition of vinyl flooring allows for a soft, comfort layer to offer cushioning to older dogs. As linoleum is a single layer construction, this is lacking and may be hard for dogs with joint conditions to lie down on for extended periods.

Slip resistance

Linoleum is extremely slippery and requires an application of a water based sealant or modified resin solution. However it can take up four applications before some slip resistance is achieved. Floors for Paws’ Pawsafe Domestic range and Luxury Vinyl range on the other hand,  have the highest slip rating of any vinyl plank flooring currently on the market

Water resistance

With dogs at either end of the age spectrum being prone to accidents (either from not yet being house-trained or from suffering from age-related incontinence) water resistance is important for dog owners. Linoleum requires regular sealing in order for it to be water resistant and even then, it isn’t recommended for any areas that are prone to moisture and humidity. Vinyl flooring however, when professionally installed is completely waterproof.

Maintenance

Both linoleum and vinyl are fairly easy to clean but keeping pet-friendly flooring clean is easier with vinyl flooring. It requires the minimum of ongoing maintenance beyond regular sweeping and mopping with plain warm water. Linoleum on the other hand does not stand up well to being mopped and does need to be sealed once or twice a year.

Comparisons between vinyl flooring and linoleum

Aesthetics – The options available or vinyl flooring are extensive. As the final aesthetic of LVT flooring and luxury vinyl planks depends on the pattern printed onto their surface layer, colours and patterns available are extensive and wood-, stone-effect finishes are also possible. Linoleum undergoes a different process, with the pigment added to the natural materials in the flooring. This limits the choice of pattern available.

Durability – as lino is a softer material than vinyl, it is more susceptible to scratches and damage. Its single layer composition means that regular sealing is required to counteract this, where vinyl flooring has an integral scratch resistant layer.

Installation – both require experienced installers if they are to give a maximum lifespan and durability. While vinyl is much beloved by the enthusiastic DIY-er, at Floors for Paws we are able to offer a prolonged guarantee against damage or failure of the flooring if it has been professionally installed.

Sustainability – as a product made using only natural materials, lino is completely organic and therefore sustainable, whereas vinyl flooring has, over the years, received a fair amount of bad press due to the nature of its manufacture and the lack of opportunity for recycling. At Floors for Paws, we use efficient manufacturing processes and our ranges are chemical free with a low VOC count. Floors for Paws is both FloorScore® and DIBt certified for superior indoor air quality, and our products are manufactured to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards. We use only recyclable plastic and only recommend a solvent-free adhesive.

While linoleum can be described as the precursor to vinyl, it’s fair to say that the invention of vinyl flooring definitely sounded the death knell for lino. It is however, experiencing a small comeback but for dog owners, we believe that vinyl flooring is the best flooring for dogs. If you would like to discuss any of our vinyl flooring ranges, please send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218

The Critical Need for Non-Slip Flooring to Prevent Joint Damage in Dogs

safe flooring for dogs

For our beloved canine companions, every step they take is an expression of joy and curiosity. However, as responsible pet owners, we must recognise the potential dangers posed by slippery floors in our homes.

 

Beyond the risk of falls and injuries, slippery surfaces can have detrimental effects on our dogs’ joint health, leading to pain, discomfort, and long-term damage. In this blog, we’ll delve into the importance of non-slip flooring for dogs and the significant role it plays in safeguarding their mobility and overall well-being.

Understanding the Impact of Slippery Floors on Joint Health

Slippery floors, such as hardwood, tile, or laminate, may seem innocuous at first glance, but for our four-legged friends, they present a significant hazard. When dogs walk or run on slick surfaces, their paws lack the traction needed to grip and stabilize their movements. As a result, they often resort to splaying their legs outward or tensing their muscles, placing undue stress on their joints, particularly the hips, knees, and ankles.

Over time, this repetitive strain and instability can lead to a range of joint-related issues, including:

Arthritis: Slippery floors exacerbate wear and tear on the joints, contributing to the development and progression of arthritis, a common condition characterized by inflammation and stiffness.

Hip Dysplasia: Dogs with a genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia are especially vulnerable to joint damage on slippery surfaces. The lack of traction increases the risk of hip displacement and exacerbates existing hip dysplasia symptoms.

Soft Tissue Injuries: Slips and falls on slick floors can cause soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, and ligament tears, further compromising joint stability and function.

The Role of Non-Slip Flooring in Joint Protection

Non-slip flooring serves as a crucial preventive measure in mitigating the risks associated with slippery surfaces for dogs. By providing traction and stability, non-slip flooring allows dogs to move freely and confidently without the fear of slips or falls. This is particularly important for senior dogs, puppies, and breeds prone to joint issues, who may already be predisposed to mobility challenges.

Key Benefits of Non-Slip Flooring for Dogs’ Joint Health

  • Traction and Stability – Non-slip flooring materials, such as rubber, carpet, or textured vinyl, offer enhanced traction and grip, enabling dogs to maintain their balance and stability while walking, running, or playing.
  • Joint Protection – By reducing the need for compensatory movements and muscle tension, non-slip flooring helps alleviate stress on the joints, minimizing the risk of strain, injury, and degenerative conditions such as arthritis.
  • Comfort and Confidence – Dogs feel more secure and confident on non-slip surfaces, allowing them to move with ease and fluidity. This promotes a positive mindset and emotional well-being, essential components of overall joint health.

Choosing Non-Slip Flooring for Your Home

When selecting flooring materials for your home, prioritise options that offer superior traction and slip resistance for your furry friend’s safety and joint health. Consider:

The best flooring for dogs is one that will tick all the boxes – be comfortable to rest on, be able to cope with increased accidents, and be safe to walk on. Working with CAM, we have developed a domestic range which each do just that:

Pawsafe Domestic Range 

Our Pawsafe Domestic range is a luxury vinyl plank flooring offering the aesthetic and choice that our customers want. Durable and scratch resistant, the luxurious cushion comfort layer is kind to old bones and sore joints, while the anti-slip wear layer will help your dog not to slip and slide. A textured surface aids traction and allows infirm dogs to move around confidently, without the fear of losing their balance. Available in a choice of plank sizes and a herringbone option, Pawsafe Domestic is low maintenance and, when professionally installed, completely waterproof with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

Best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

To chat through your requirements for the best flooring for older dogs, please get in touch, and our friendly sales team will be happy to help. Email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218.

Pet-friendly floors

dog on luxury vinyl flooring

As a nation of dog lovers, we prioritise the needs of our pets but often confuse pet-friendly flooring with pet-owner friendly flooring! Here we look at the best flooring for dogs that’s also great for their owners.

 

Flooring that sees a lot of four-legged traffic has to live up to a lot of expectations but what exactly do we, as pet owners, want from our flooring?

Features of pet friendly floors for owners

We demand a lot from our floors. They need to be:

  • Hardwearing and durable to withstand the wear and tear our pets will put it through, not to mention the scratches.
  • Waterproof – from toilet training puppies to incontinent older dogs, our flooring needs to cope with the inevitable accidents it will experience. Then there’s the spills from water bowls, and the wet, muddy paws after a winter walk.
  • Low maintenance flooring suits us pet owners down to the ground. We need something that we can keep clean and that requires the minimum of fuss to keep it looking great.
  • They need to be stylish and complement our interiors.

Best pet friendly flooring for pets

Let’s face it – Fido doesn’t care whether the floor looks good, or even whether it’s easy to maintain. So, what do our dogs require from their flooring?

  • Dog friendly non slip flooring is a must for dogs of all ages but particularly the very young and the very old. Puppies that are finding their feet need flooring that will stabilise them and not have them slipping all over. Likewise, an older dog may be unsteady on their legs and need stability to help them feel safe. Injuries from falls in both these dogs will be painful and, for their owners, costly.
  • Comfort and warmth – our dogs spend a lot of time lying down! They need a comfortable flooring solution that will support them that isn’t cold to the touch. A cold solid bed will contribute to pain in conditions like arthritis too, so it’s vital to get your flooring right.

What if we told you that at Floors for Paws, we have developed a range of the best pet friendly flooring – vinyl flooring that ticks all the boxes for pets and their owners?

The best flooring for dogs (and their owners) from Floors for Paws

Our Pawsafe Commercial range has been developed in conjunction with Canine Arthritis Management (CAM) and when weighing up the best and worst flooring for dogs, it’s easy to see why so many people love this floor. For humans, the range is durable and hardwearing and waterproof when professionally installed. This vinyl flooring is easy to maintain, scratch resistant and comes on a roll in a choice of colours and finishes to create individual looks in any style of interior.

For dogs, this flooring is second to none. It has the highest slip rating of any vinyl flooring currently on the market with a textured upper surface to aid traction. What’s more, its high density, fleece comfort backing gives better cushioning for older, painful joints.

Our Pawsafe Domestic range offers all the same features and benefits and is perfect for use in any room of the home. Available in two plank sizes and a choice of patterns and colours, this is ideal for use alongside the Commercial range and is often used in reception areas to give a warm welcome to clients and their owners.

Try before you buy at Floors for Paws

With such a wide choice of options available, choosing the perfect pattern can be tough. To help narrow your search, we can offer up to three free samples – or more for a small charge – to experience the quality of the Pawsafe Commercial range in the comfort of your own setting. Likewise, the Pawsafe Domestic range is offered in sample sizes too. For any other enquiries, our friendly sales team is happy to help. Simply call us on 01522 300218 or send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

The importance of non-slip flooring for dogs

canine arthritis

In our latest guide, we delve into the importance of non-slip flooring for dogs and how it can make a paws-itive difference in their lives.

 

As pet owners, we cherish the joy and companionship our furry friends bring into our lives. From playful romps in the backyard to cozy snuggles on the couch, our dogs enrich our daily routines in countless ways. However, amid all the fun and frolic, it’s crucial to consider the safety and well-being of our canine companions, especially when it comes to their environment. One often overlooked yet critical aspect of pet safety is the flooring they walk and play on.

The Need for Safety

Dogs are known for their boundless energy and enthusiasm, but their exuberance can sometimes lead to accidents, particularly on slick or slippery surfaces. Whether it’s a hardwood floor, tile, or laminate, smooth flooring materials can pose significant hazards to dogs, especially those with mobility issues or older dogs with arthritis. Slips and falls can result in injuries ranging from minor bruises to more severe fractures or sprains, causing pain and discomfort for our beloved pets. ‘Arthritis is caused either by abnormal forces being placed through normal joints, or normal forces being placed through abnormal joints-or possibly a combination of both. Although there could be a number of reasons why a dog develops arthritis, the most prevalent cause is developmental joint disease.’*

Enhancing Stability and Security

Non-slip flooring offers a simple yet effective solution to mitigate the risk of accidents and injuries for dogs. Unlike traditional flooring materials that provide minimal traction, non-slip surfaces offer enhanced stability and grip, allowing dogs to walk, run, and play with confidence. Whether navigating indoor spaces or outdoor areas like patios or decks, dogs can move about safely without the fear of slipping or losing their footing.

Protecting Joint Health

For dogs, maintaining joint health is essential for their overall well-being and quality of life, especially as they age. Slippery surfaces can exacerbate existing joint conditions such as arthritis, leading to increased pain and discomfort. Non-slip flooring helps alleviate stress on joints by providing a stable and supportive surface for dogs to walk and stand on. By reducing the strain on their joints, non-slip flooring can contribute to improved mobility and comfort for dogs, allowing them to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

Promoting Confidence and Independence

Beyond safety concerns, non-slip flooring also plays a crucial role in promoting dogs’ confidence and independence. Dogs thrive when they feel secure and in control of their movements, and non-slip surfaces empower them to explore their surroundings with confidence. Whether navigating stairs, jumping onto furniture, or playing fetch in the backyard, dogs can engage in activities without the fear of slipping or falling, fostering a sense of freedom and autonomy.

Choosing the Right Flooring

When selecting flooring for homes or pet-friendly spaces, it’s essential to prioritize safety and comfort for our four-legged friends. Non-slip flooring options such as rubber, cork, or textured tiles provide excellent traction and durability, making them ideal choices for pet-friendly environments. Additionally, regular maintenance and cleaning of floors can help ensure optimal traction and prevent the buildup of debris or substances that may compromise surface grip.

Pawsafe Domestic Range

Our Pawsafe Domestic range is a luxury vinyl plank flooring offering the aesthetic and choice that our customers want. Durable and scratch resistant, the luxurious cushion comfort layer is kind to old bones and sore joints, while the anti-slip wear layer will help your dog not to slip and slide. A textured surface aids traction and allows infirm dogs to move around confidently, without the fear of losing their balance. Available in a choice of plank sizes and a herringbone option, Pawsafe Domestic is low maintenance and, when professionally installed, completely waterproof with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

Best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

To chat through your requirements for the best flooring for older dogs, please get in touch, and our friendly sales team will be happy to help. Email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218.

 

*What causes arthritis

Best flooring for older dogs

safe flooring for older dogs

As we age, we start to experience the natural aches and pains of older age, and dogs are exactly the same. Here, we look closely at the best flooring for older dogs.

 

Much research has been carried out into the ailments that afflict older dogs, and the overriding statistic that emerges is the prevalence of arthritis in dogs. A staggering 80% of dogs over the age of 8 will develop the condition and there are some breeds that are more susceptible such as Golden Retrievers and Springer Spaniels. Given that the RSPCA gives the average lifespan of a dog between 12-13 years, an arthritic dog may have to bear the condition for several years.

Recognising your dog is ageing

Paws For Floors has enjoyed a long collaborative working relationship with Canine Arthritis Management (CAM), focussing on developing the best flooring for dogs with arthritis (read CAM working with Floors for Paws). As well as telltale signs that your dog may be suffering from arthritis (and it is recommended that you seek a professional veterinary diagnosis to find out definitively), there are other signs to be aware of. These include increased thirst and drinking, tiring quickly and lethargy. Your older dogs may seem stiff and have difficulty getting up or laying down and they may develop a limp and find it difficult to maintain their balance.

Taking care of older dogs

Our guide to Arthritis in Dogs has lots of helpful advice and tips on how to help a dog with arthritis, with things you can implement in your home including home adaptations, exercise, and diet and nutrition. At Floor for Paws, however, our priority is always to ensure your older dog is as comfortable as possible, for as long as possible. We know your older dog will need longer periods of rest and may spend a lot of their day lying down, and we know they are likely to develop age-related incontinence and need to pee much more frequently. We also know they need to be comfortable and able to maintain their balance.

Best flooring for older dogs

The best flooring for older dogs is one that will tick all the boxes above – be comfortable to rest on, be able to cope with increased accidents, and be safe to walk on. Working with CAM, we have developed two ranges which each do just that:

Pawsafe Domestic Range 

Our Pawsafe Domestic range is a luxury vinyl plank flooring offering the aesthetic and choice that our customers want. Durable and scratch resistant, the luxurious cushion comfort layer is kind to old bones and sore joints, while the anti-slip wear layer will help your dog not to slip and slide. A textured surface aids traction and allows infirm dogs to move around confidently, without the fear of losing their balance. Available in a choice of plank sizes and a herringbone option, Pawsafe Domestic is low maintenance and, when professionally installed, completely waterproof with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

Pawsafe Commercial Range

Mindful that there are many businesses that welcome four-legged clients, customers and visitors, we have developed our Pawsafe Commercial range specifically with their needs in mind. Available in vinyl flooring rolls, the range has the highest slip rating of any commercial vinyl flooring currently on the market. A thicker than average wear layer gives durability for high traffic volumes and, once installed, the flooring is completely waterproof. Available in attractive wood- and stone-effect finishes to provide a warm and friendly welcome to all visitors, the range works well in conjunction with the Pawsafe Domestic range to offer a complete flooring solution for reception areas and consultation rooms.

Best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

To chat through your requirements for the best flooring for older dogs, please get in touch, and our friendly sales team will be happy to help. Email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218.

Welcome to VetRelieve

Vetrelieve beds

Dr Lauren Davis founded VetRelieve to provide tested orthopaedic pet beds, trusted by vets and pet owners alike.

“Working in the pressure care industry showed me that there were no clinically tested orthopaedic dog beds available in the UK – leaving owners and vets to guess how good or otherwise a bed might be. I set about creating a bed range that truly works to support sore joints, passes objective pressure tests, looks great in the home, washes well, and fits pets even up to XXL.

I hope you’ll give your dog the experience of a VetRelieve bed, and I’d love to hear how you get on with our Ortholuxe range – we’d love to feature your pet on our site!”

More than comfort, VetRelieve orthopaedic dog beds are designed specifically for older or arthritic pets. This vet-led company puts your pet’s welfare and wellbeing front and centre, with a focus on sleep quality, to make a bed your dog won’t want to get out of!

Non-slip base, washable cover, two-sided bolster for easy exit and entry, and patent pending interior make this an exceptional choice for any dog suffering joint pain or stiffness.

And with sizes from S to XXL, and a choice of beds or mattresses, there’s an option that’s perfect for your dog.

To find out more visit: www.vetrelieve.co.uk

What is a fear free vet?

fear free flooring

A comprehensive guide to fear free veterinary practices and how to create one.

 

What is a fear free vet?

Founded by American veterinarian Dr Marty Becker, fear free is an initiative where vets use knowledge and tools to care for both the physical and the emotional wellbeing of a pet. This has been driven by the anxiety experienced by pets, from routine check-ups to critical procedures, which can greatly impact their overall experience and recovery. This has led to vets and veterinary practices striving to reduce the levels of stress in their patients.

Fear free vets UK

In the United Kingdom, in October 2023, there were 1350 individual vets with Fear Free accreditation and just one Fear Free certified practice outside North America.

The Importance of Fear Free Practices

For many pets, a visit to the veterinary clinic can be a source of fear and anxiety. The unfamiliar sights, sounds, and scents can trigger stress responses, making it challenging for veterinarians to provide optimal care. Fear and anxiety not only affect the emotional well-being of pets but can also impede the diagnostic process and compromise treatment outcomes. Recognising these challenges, veterinary practices across the UK are embracing fear-free practices aimed at reducing pet anxiety and promoting a calm and comfortable environment.

How to create a fear free veterinary practice

Among the strategies that are employed to create a fear free veterinary practice, professionals are increasingly recognising the significance of anti-slip flooring and home-like environments in alleviating pet stress and promoting positive outcomes.

Non slip flooring for dogs

One crucial aspect of creating a fear-free environment in veterinary practices is the implementation of non slip flooring for dogs. Traditional flooring materials such as tile or linoleum can pose significant risks to pets, especially those with mobility issues or those recovering from surgery. Slips and falls can cause injuries, exacerbate existing conditions, and contribute to heightened stress levels. Anti-slip flooring solutions provide stability and traction, reducing the likelihood of accidents and promoting a sense of security for pets.

In addition to enhancing safety, anti-slip flooring also prioritises comfort and well-being. Many veterinary practices in the UK are opting for anti-slip flooring materials that offer cushioning and support, mimicking the feel of natural surfaces like grass or carpet. By minimising the harshness of hard surfaces, anti-slip cushioned flooring helps create a soothing and inviting environment that puts pets at ease.

Flooring to reduce the clinical atmosphere of a veterinary practice

Incorporating elements of home-like environments is another key strategy in offering a fear-free atmosphere in veterinary practices. Pets are more likely to feel relaxed and comfortable in surroundings that resemble familiar settings. One effective way to achieve this is through the selection of flooring materials that mimic those found in residential spaces. By opting for flooring that resembles that which is normally found in homes, veterinary practices can help alleviate pet anxiety and promote a sense of familiarity.

Furthermore, home-like flooring choices contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the veterinary clinic, creating a warm and inviting ambiance for both pets and their owners. By carefully considering design elements such as colour, texture, and pattern, veterinary practices can create environments that are visually pleasing and conducive to pet comfort.

The importance of a fear free veterinary practice

The importance of a fear free veterinary practice cannot be overstated. By prioritising the well-being and comfort of pets, veterinarians can enhance the quality of care and improve treatment outcomes. Anti-slip flooring and flooring that resembles home environments play crucial roles in creating a calm and soothing atmosphere that promotes pet relaxation and reduces anxiety. In the UK, veterinary practices are increasingly embracing these principles to ensure that every pet receives the care and attention they deserve in a fear-free setting.

Flooring for a fear free veterinary practice from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, we specialise in the best flooring for dogs. Our Pawsafe Commercial range, developed in conjunction with vets and Canine Arthritis Management, is not only the perfect flooring solution for any premises but it is particularly suitable for anywhere that welcomes our four-legged friends. We can help. Available in a choice of attractive wood-effect finishes suitable for reception or waiting areas, or stone-effect finishes ideal for consultation rooms, the range is popular with every type of veterinary practice. So take us at our word and order up to three free samples (or more for a small fee) today to see for yourself? Then simply email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or call our friendly team on 01522 300218.