Pet-proof or pet-friendly – what’s the difference?

pet friendly flooring

In the flooring industry, we often see the phrases ‘pet-proof’ and ‘pet-friendly’ but what do they each mean? Here, we examine these labels to unpick exactly what they mean for you and your pets.

What is dog-proof flooring?

If you do an internet search for dog-proof flooring, you’ll get dozens of results for flooring companies. A closer look reveals that dog-proof refers to the qualities that will best withstand the wear and tear from pets; scratch resistance, easy to clean, low maintenance, waterproof.

All of these qualities are worthy of the pet-proof label but, when you search pet friendly flooring, the same results appear. At Floors for Paws, we believe that pet friendly or dog friendly flooring should be just that – kind to your beloved pets and not just something that makes life easier for owners. Of course, a happy owner makes for a happy pet so we have created a range of flooring that is pet friendly and owner friendly.

Pet friendly flooring from Floors for Paws

All our flooring is manufactured from quality vinyl, offering all the features you’d expect from a pet-proof flooring solution.

Low maintenance – following correct installation, a vinyl floor needs nothing more than a sweep to keep it looking tidy so no more dragging the heavy vacuum out every day.

Easy to clean – a damp mop and an approved cleaning product will keep your vinyl floor looking like new.

Waterproof – PVC, the material vinyl flooring is made from, is completely waterproof.

Scratch resistant – vinyl flooring is given a final, scratch resistant, surface layer that will withstand scuffs, scratches and stains.

On top of these qualities, our flooring really is kinder to your pets, making it the best dog friendly vinyl flooring on the market. Let’s take a look at why!

What is the best pet friendly flooring?

The best pet friendly flooring is one that cares about and caters for the needs of your pet. The Pawsafe Domestic Range offers comfort for old bones thanks to a unique comfort backing that gives better cushioning – perfect for any pet but particularly older, arthritic dogs who may spend a lot of their day lying down. It also has the highest slip rating of any vinyl plank flooring currently on the market, making it the best non slip flooring for dogs. For pet owners, this means that unsteady dogs (young and old) are less likely to slip and cause damage to delicate or fragile joints.

Canine Arthritis Management (CAM)

Our Pawsafe range has been fully approved by CAM, an organisation committed to the effective, long term management of canine arthritis and has also received endorsements from veterinary clinics and animal physios.

If you would like to experience our truly dog friendly flooring solutions for yourself, you can choose up to three samples from the Pawsafe Domestic Range, the Pawsafe Commercial Range, or the Luxury Vinyl Range. Our friendly, dog mad team is also available to answer any questions you have about flooring and can be contacted on 01937 830948 or by email at info@floorsforpaws.com

Non-slip flooring for dogs

safe flooring for dogs

Watching dogs sliding along highly polished floors is funny in old cartoons, but the reality of a slippery floor, particularly for older dogs, is no laughing matter. Here, we look at non-slip flooring for dogs and why it’s so important to get it right.

The risks to dogs of slippery floors

Just like humans, dogs feel insecure on slippery surfaces and when they understand that there is the possibility of falling or sliding, it will make them unstable. For dogs of any age, this feeling of instability will lead to a lack of confidence which will make them alter their gait when walking, overusing muscles to maintain their stability. For older dogs who may be suffering from canine arthritis, as well as puppies who haven’t fully developed, a fall will cause pain and may result in serious injury.

The need for good quality, anti slip flooring for dogs is important in any setting, but especially in environments which welcome lots of dogs of different ages, such as veterinary practices, doggy day care and commercial kennels. At Floors For Paws, we work closely with veterinarian professionals to ensure we have a deep understanding of what a floor has to deliver.

The features of dog-friendly flooring

So, if you are in the market for new flooring, what should you be looking for? Humans need pet flooring that is easy to keep clean and water resistant. Dogs on the other hand, need flooring that is not hard, so that the risk of injury through falls is reduced, nor cold as cold flooring affects circulation and is unforgiving to arthritic paws.  Flooring that offers good traction and grip will not only reduce the incidence of sliding for the dogs but will also allow them to get back up more easily if they do fall.

Best non slip flooring for dogs

While carpet is soft and warm, it isn’t very practical when it comes to accidents and in a commercial setting is impractical from a hygiene point of view. Wood flooring and laminate both offer a great aesthetic and can be durable and hardwearing for the humans walking on it. Sadly for our four legged friends, they are both highly slippery and would be a hard landing surface for dogs of any age. Just as slippery are ceramic tiles, which come with the added disadvantage to dogs of being extremely cold under paws. So what does that leave?

Luxury vinyl flooring

Luxury vinyl flooring is perfect for owners and dogs alike. Humans love that it is easy to clean, scratch resistant, waterproof and available in a wide range of attractive designs. Dogs love that it is not cold to the touch, is comfortable to lie down on and has good grip when they want to get back up.

Ease of cleaning, scratch resistance, traction, and moisture damage are all considerations in choosing the best flooring for homes with pets. Both laminate and luxury vinyl flooring are great choices but if the pet is prone to accidents, luxury vinyl is the way to go thanks to its waterproof qualities.

The Pawsafe Commercial Range from Floors For Paws

Our Pawsafe commercial flooring is high quality vinyl roll flooring approved by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) that will please two- and four-legged users! Ideal for making pet-care settings and veterinary practices more appealing, while being easy to clean and maintain, the wide range of colours and designs available would also look perfect in a family home. With a cushion comfort layer and an anti-slip wear layer, this is a flooring that is kind to puppies and dogs of all ages and gentle on their joints.

To find out more about a flooring that appeals to humans while prioritising the needs of their pets, or to order three free samples, call us today on 01937 830948 or email us at info@floorsforpaws.com

Flooring for Vets

Vet with dog

Over the course of the last five years we not only been growing as a business we have also been learning as we go. We have had the pleasure of working closely with Hannah Capon at Canine Arthritis Management as well as leading manufactures in the flooring industry. FFP have been involved in numerous new build and refurbishments of veterinary practices and even more exciting for us we are also finding ourselves specified in these types of projects.

What do FFP do differently?

FFP offer a complete flooring solution for your veterinary practice which can be tailored to match your individual requirements. We understand not every practice is the same, some offer surgical or specialty services others focus on general veterinary practices; there is also the broad spectrum of both large and small animals to consider. FFP have four ranges of flooring each with its own key properties, however all of them offer a waterproof, low VOC emissions, stain resistant, easy to clean attractive flooring covering with a 10 year commercial warranty. Floors for Paws have approved subcontractors throughout the UK who are able to carry out all subfloor works required and fit the flooring, alternatively if there are flooring contractors’ onsite we are happy to liaise with them about the installation process.

Floors for Paws Wood Effect (Luxury Vinyl Tile)

This is the most popular range, it comes in planks (1200mm x 180mm x 2.5mm) the top surface has a deep grain and a double PU wear layer. The deep grain gives your dog the ability to grip, push themselves up from lying down with ease and walk with confidence. LVT of some kind is found in most domestic settings therefore something your animal is probably familiar with; having this in a reception area instead of a safety flooring they rarely come across may reduce stress levels.

Areas: Reception, consultation rooms
Properties: Waterproof, hardwearing, scratch resistant to claws

Floors for Paws Stone Effect (Luxury Vinyl Tile)

This range comes in tiles which are either 458mm x 458mm or 305mm x 610mm depending on which colour you opt for. The texture is almost sandy as the flooring has an anti-slip aggregate running through it. This flooring has a low risk slip rating in both the wet and dry and a double PU wear layer.

Areas: Reception, consultation rooms
Properties: Waterproof, hardwearing, scratch resistant to claws, good anti-slip properties in wet and dry

CAM Endorsed – Paw Safe Commercial Flooring

This range is a cushion roll vinyl which CAM has endorsed; it has a low slip risk and a softer feel. This flooring has a 0.7 wear layer and comes in 2 meter widths; it is hot welded at joins and usually run up the wall to form a skirting using a cap and cove system.

Areas: Surgical suites, kennels, radiology and imaging rooms
Properties: Waterproof, hardwearing, enhanced slip resistance in wet and dry, can withstand heavy duty washing down, very good electrical resistance

CAM Endorsed – Paw Safe Domestic Flooring

This range is an LVT however it is not a rigid back LVT, the backing is felt which makes it cushioned so is softer. This flooring has a 0.6 wear layer and comes in planks which are either 1000mm x 125mm or smaller planks which are 500mm x 100mm (these are suitable for herringbone and parquet styles.) It comes with a 10 year commercial warranty.

Areas: Reception, consultation rooms
Properties: Waterproof, hardwearing, scratch resistant to claws, enhanced anti-slip properties in wet and dry, kinder to joints

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Please find below just a handful of projects we have done in various practices throughout the UK.

Mulberry House Vets – https://mulberryhousevets.co.uk/

Mulberry House vets opted for the Whinfell wood effect Floors for Paws, using the planks to form a skirting.

Fauna Vets – https://www.faunavets.co.uk/

Fauna vets opted for the Pawsafe Commercial throughout in Delamere

“We’re happy with the look of the flooring and the animals are very comfortable on it”

Guildford Vets – https://www.theguildfordvet.co.uk/

The Gilford vets opted for the Pawsafe Commercial throughout in Mercier

“The flooring is excellent, does exactly what it says on the tin – dogs move very comfortably on it and don’t slip around, it looks great and was well installed – highly recommend”

Christian Grey – Owner

Caerphilly Vets – https://www.caerphillyvets.com/

Caerphilly vets opted for the Epping wood effect floors for paws in the front of house areas and the Mercier commercial PawSafe in the back of house areas

“As a busy Veterinary Clinic, when it came time to replace our flooring, we had a few criteria that had to be met. We needed to make sure our four legged visitors would be safe on a non slip floor, but we also wanted the floor to look amazing and less clinical that standard Veterinary flooring. It also needed to be durable! Dogs do have accidents!

We found Floors For Paws and knew they would be the team to work with. From the initial enquiry, to receiving samples, deciding which floor for each area, arranging a site visit and work starting, their communication was excellent!

Such a professional and efficient company!

Everything went smoothly, the floors look fantastic and we’ve had really great comments from our clients.

Our reception doesn’t look clinical anymore, instead it’s warm and welcoming while being a safe place for our fluffy visitors. It’s completely transformed the space and we love it! So much so, that we’re planning to have more Floors for Paws next year because our new reception has put our other reception to shame!

Thanks so much from all of the team and pets at Caerphilly Veterinary Clinic”

Mandy James – Practice Manager

Magnolia Vets – https://www.magnoliavets.co.uk

Magnolia vets opted for the Floors for Paws in their reception area and consultation rooms in Greenwood

Ferndown Family Vets – https://ferndownfamilyvets.co.uk/

See our endorsement from Hannah Capon and CAM below;

Home environment adaptations

Herringbone flooring

Herringbone LVP flooring is a luxury vinyl plank option that features a unique, interlocking pattern of rectangular tiles arranged in a zig-zag or “herringbone” formation. This pattern is often associated with high-end, traditional design aesthetics and is popular in commercial and residential spaces. The LVT material is durable, water-resistant, and easy to maintain, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Additionally, LVT flooring is often more budget-friendly than traditional hardwood or tile options, making it a cost-effective choice for those looking to achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank.

Floors for Paws Glue down Herringbone luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is a type of flooring that is installed by applying adhesive to the subfloor and then pressing the planks into the adhesive. This method of installation is typically used in commercial and high-traffic residential spaces, as it provides a more secure and stable hold on the floor.

One of the benefits of glue-down LVP flooring is that it is less likely to shift or move over time, as the adhesive creates a strong bond between the planks and the subfloor. This can be especially important in areas that are prone to moisture or temperature changes, as the adhesive can help to prevent warping or buckling of the planks.

Another benefit of glue-down LVP flooring is that it needs a latex smoothing compound prior to installation that will smooth an uneven subfloor.  The adhesive acts as a moisture barrier between the planks and the sub-floor making it completely waterproof. This can be especially useful when you have dogs who may splash water from there bowls, bring in water from outside or leave piddle on the floor!

However, installation of glue-down LVP is a bit more complex than other installation options such as click-and-lock, and it requires more time and skill. However once the planks are glued down, an individual plank can be heated and removed if damaged unlike click flooring in which the whole floor needs to be removed. 

Overall, glue-down LVP flooring is a durable and stable option that is well-suited for commercial and high-traffic residential spaces, but the installation process is more complex and the planks cannot be easily removed or replaced.

 

Order your 3 free samples today https://www.floorsforpaws.com/pawsafe-domestic-range/

What is Luxury Vinyl plank flooring?

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a popular flooring option for homeowners looking for a durable and stylish alternative to traditional hardwood or tile. This type of flooring is made from a combination of natural materials and synthetic polymers, resulting in a product that mimics the look of hardwood or stone while providing added durability and resistance to moisture and wear.

One of the main benefits of LVP is its ability to mimic the look of natural wood or stone. This is achieved through high-resolution printing and texturing techniques that make the flooring look virtually identical to the real thing. This means that homeowners can enjoy the beauty and elegance of natural wood or stone without the high cost and maintenance that comes with those materials.

Another advantage of LVP is its durability. Because it is made from a combination of natural materials and synthetic polymers, it is able to withstand heavy foot traffic and resist scratches, dents, and stains. This makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, and entryways. Additionally, LVP is moisture resistant, making it a great option for bathrooms, basements and other damp spaces.

LVP is also relatively easy to install. It comes in planks or tiles that can be floated over an existing subfloor, making it a great option for DIY projects. Additionally, LVP is easy to cut and shape, allowing for a variety of design options and flexibility.

Another great feature of LVP is its ease of maintenance. Unlike traditional hardwood, LVP can be easily cleaned with a damp mop or cloth. It does not require any special cleaning products or regular waxing or staining. This makes it a great option for busy homeowners who want a beautiful and low-maintenance flooring option especially for dog friendly and pet friendly homes. 

In terms of cost, LVP is a budget-friendly option. It is generally less expensive than traditional hardwood or stone, and it is also more durable and requires less maintenance. This makes it an excellent value for homeowners looking to upgrade their flooring.

Overall, luxury vinyl plank is a versatile and durable flooring option that provides the beauty of natural wood or stone without the high cost and maintenance. Its high-resolution printing and texturing techniques make it virtually indistinguishable from the real thing, and its moisture resistance and durability make it a great choice for high-traffic areas and damp spaces. Additionally, its easy installation and low-maintenance make it an attractive option for homeowners who want a beautiful and functional flooring solution.

Order your 3 free samples today https://www.floorsforpaws.com/luxury-vinyl-range/

Preparing your sub-floor for luxury vinyl plank flooring

When preparing your subfloor for luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, it is important to ensure that the surface is level, clean, and free of any debris or obstacles.

Here are some steps you can take to prepare your subfloor for LVP, if your subfloor is concrete:

1. Remove any existing flooring: This includes carpeting, tile, or hardwood. Be sure toremove any nails, staples, or adhesive residue left behind.

2. Inspect the subfloor: Look for any cracks, holes, or uneven areas that need to be repaired. If the subfloor is made of concrete, check for moisture issues by using a
moisture meter.

3. If the moisture reader shows a relative humidity (RH) of over 75% the use of a damp proof membrane is necessary (unless you wish to wait to install your floor until the
concrete is completely dry.

4. A damp proof membrane (DPM) is a layer of material that is installed between the subfloor and the final flooring to prevent moisture from penetrating the surface of the
flooring. It is relatively easy to install and can help to extend the lifespan of your flooring.Remember to also check if the manufacturer of the LVP you choose specifies any other requirement for installing the flooring, such as a vapor barrier.

5. Clean the subfloor: This is important to ensure that there is no dust or debris that can interfere with the application of the latex smoothing compound. Use a broom or vacuum to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.

6. Repair any damage. Use repair mortar or a crack repair kit to repair any uneven areas or cracks in the subfloor.

7. Before installing the LVP, it’s important to make sure that the subfloor is level and dry. Use a self-levelling smoothing compound to smooth them out. 2-3mm of smoothing compound will dry to walk on within 2 hours however will need at least 24 hours to dry sufficiently for the LVP to be adhered to it. With most levelling compounds you need to apply a primer to the subfloor before putting the levelling compound down.

8. Test the subfloor: Before installing the LVP, it’s important to make sure that the subfloor is level and dry. Use a self-levelling compound to smooth them out. 2-3mm of latex will dry to walk on within 2 hours however will need at least 24 hours to dry sufficiently for the LVP to be adhered to it.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your subfloor is properly prepared for the installation of LVP flooring. This will help to ensure that the flooring is installed correctly and will last for many years to come.

Our Pawsafe Domestic range and our Luxury Vinyl range are supplied in a choice of plank or tile options in a range of attractive wood- and stone-effect finishes to satisfy the most house proud amongst us.

What is vinyl flooring?

With so many flooring options available today, our guide looks at what’s available to pet owners, with a particular focus on one type – vinyl flooring.

It can be challenging to choose the right flooring for your home; should you go for carpet, linoleum, laminate or vinyl? And is there any flooring that is better for your pets, or that you should avoid with pets in the home? At Floors for Paws, we specialise in vinyl flooring that is pet and pet-owner friendly.

What is vinyl flooring?

Vinyl flooring is a 100% synthetic flooring material, made from polyvinyl chloride plastic, or PVC. PVC is heated and pressed into thin layers with the uppermost, surface layer giving the vinyl flooring its final aesthetic. It can be made to imitate the look of wood, ceramic and stone and can even be textured. The surface layer is coated for scuff, scratch and stain resistance, and adds a water resistant protection. The backing of the vinyl flooring is felt or foam. Flooring options are vinyl flooring rolls which are purchased and installed like carpet, vinyl tile flooring and vinyl plank flooring which is supplied in plank shapes to allow the creation of patterns that can mimic traditional wooden floors such as a herringbone design.

Is vinyl flooring the same as lino?

Many of us would have had grandparents who had a lino (linoleum) floor at home and while many people use the term lino when referring to vinyl flooring, they are two very different things. Linoleum is manufactured from a mixture of renewable natural materials which can include wood pulp, crushed cork, linseed oil, tree resin and jute. Lino is far less water resistant then vinyl and requires an annual protective coating and waxing.

What is laminate flooring?

Laminate flooring is a multi-layer product which is fused together with a lamination process. Its core is made from HDF (high density fibreboard) which makes it highly susceptible to water and moisture damage.

What is carpet?

Carpet is a floor covering made from textile which has a backing attached to an upper layer of pile. 90% of carpets manufactured today have an upper pile of synthetic fibres, with just 10% being natural fibres, most commonly wool. Carpet can be chewed and damaged by scratching, and it will stain easily.

The benefits of vinyl flooring

Durability – vinyl flooring is highly durable and with the correct installation, can last more than 20 years.

Scratch and stain resistant – the surface layer that is applied to vinyl flooring gives protection against scuffs and scratches, and staining.

Water resistant – vinyl flooring is waterproof thanks to its PVC composition. Where there are multiple seams involved with vinyl plank flooring and vinyl tiles, correct installation will render this just as water resistant as vinyl flooring rolls. Vinyl flooring is therefore ideal for high-moisture areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Easy to clean – extremely low maintenance, vinyl flooring requires nothing more than a sweep and a damp mop with an approved cleaning product.

Is vinyl flooring pet friendly?

Not only is vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws pet-owner friendly and pet-proof, it is also pet friendly. Our Luxury Vinyl range is perfect for any room in the home and has a double wear layer of 0.6mm enabling us to guarantee it against your dog’s claws. It is waterproof, hypo-allergenic, does not need harsh chemicals to clean it, and is free of nasty phthalates making it safe for your dog.

To discuss pet friendly vinyl flooring for your next project, call us on 01937 830948 and email us at info@floorsforpaws.com

Pet-friendly flooring

Choosing the right flooring for your home is essential but add into the mix a pet and it can be even harder!

With so many flooring options available on the market, choosing the right pet friendly flooring can be tough. In our latest guide, we take a look at the choices you have and what you should avoid!

Whether you a have a pup or an older dog in the home, flooring has to withstand everything from being chewed and scratched, or even peed on, so you need a solution that is hardwearing and durable, that will also fit seamlessly into the aesthetic of your home.

How to choose dog friendly flooring

All dogs are different; some may be chewers, others may be scratchers, so there are lots of factors to consider before deciding on your flooring.

Spills and stains – potty training pets will have a lot of accidents, while older pets may start to suffer with incontinence, so your flooring needs to be water resistant to avoid the staining and damage caused by accidents and spills.

Maintenance – from a pet owner’s point of view, an easy to maintain flooring solution is preferable, and less time-consuming.

Scratch resistance – when weighing up your options, it’s important to think about the impact of sharp claws (and teeth) on floor coverings.

Comfort – at Floors for Paws, we believe flooring should be pet friendly, and not just pet owner friendly so our flooring offers different levels of comfort for your pets.

Types of flooring

Carpet – the traditional choice for many homes, carpet is not the best pet friendly flooring! Damage from chewing or scratching is likely to be irreparable and any staining can be difficult to remove completely and leave odours behind. Carpet is a magnet for hair and fur and will also attract fleas and other pests that your four legged friends bring in to the home.

Hardwood flooring – another popular flooring solution, hardwood flooring can fall foul of long claws with repeated scratch resistant treatments being costly over time. They are also prone to staining and warping with prolonged exposure to excessive moisture.

Tiled floors – a popular choice with pet owners, tiled floors are extremely easy to maintain but not always kind to pets, particularly older ones. While impervious to excessive moisture and easy to clean and mop, tiled floors are cold and uncomfortable, something that most pet owners want to avoid.

Laminate floors – laminate floors are great for younger, active pets as it is durable and hardwearing but the smooth finish of a laminate might make it difficult for older dogs to gain traction, causing them to slip and cause potential injury.

Luxury vinyl flooring

Whenever we are asked what is the best pet friendly flooring, our answer has to be luxury vinyl flooring. Durable and resilient and more than capable of dealing with anything your pet can throw at it, today’s LVT options are offered in a variety of finishes, to mimic the look of hardwood and even stone. The main types of vinyl flooring are vinyl plank flooring and luxury vinyl tiles.

Pet friendly flooring from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, our Pawsafe Domestic Range offers your pet a level of comfort and care that is hard to beat. Endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), this vinyl plank flooring is available in a standard 125mm x 1000mm size with a selection of colourways available in 100mm x 50mm, to enable you to create wonderful patterned floors. Comprising a reinforcement layer and an insulated high density fleece backing, plus an anti-slip layer, the Pawsafe Domestic Range has the highest slip rating of any luxury vinyl plank currently on the market.

To find out more about the best non slip flooring for dogs, call us today on 01937 830948 or email us at info@floorsforpaws.com

Arthritis in dogs

Osteoarthritis affects at least one in five dogs, and its prevalence increases as a dog ages. The sad truth is that your dog has or will get osteoarthritis at some point in its life.

At least 80% of dogs over the age of 8 years old suffer from arthritis, therefore it is likely that your dog will develop arthritis in one or more joints at some stage in their life.

Dogs are incredible at ‘coping’ with discomfort. Some suggest it is due to them wishing to mask their pain and avoid appearing vulnerable. Others suggest the only option is ‘to cope’ when you do not understand there is an alternative. And some feel they demonstrate tolerance to musculoskeletal pain due to the insidious chronic nature of its development and through the ability to shift weight away from the pain into other regions of the body.

Whatever the reason, dogs often have significant disease even before it is suspected as detecting it can be very difficult.

Pain is typically classed as either being acute or chronic. This is an important distinction as while acute pain serves a useful biological purpose, chronic pain does not.

How is arthritis in dogs recognised?

Behavioural signs can be playing less with toys, licking joints excessively, pacing at night and low mood. Changes in posture may include a hunched back, avoiding putting weight on one leg, low head carriage and a low, tucked in tail. Mobility issues may arise, such as; slowing down on walks, stiffness after rest periods, lameness and dragging feet.
Recognition of any of these in your dog is the most important factor as the earlier it is identified the shorter your beloved dog will be in pain and discomfort.

The first actionable step if your dog is diagnosed is weight management. If your dog is overweight, weight loss will have a significant positive impact on the pain of arthritis and will slow the progression of the disease. Studies have shown that losing 6% of excess body weight will significantly reduce an arthritic dog’s lameness. 63% of all dogs are overweight and 90% of owners cannot see that their dog is overweight.

What is often surprising is that the most important steps in managing Canine arthritis rest with us as owners and many can be done prior to Veterinary intervention and medicines.

Home adaptations

Like humans our pets are also vulnerable to harm from obstacles of daily living that were once easy to navigate, but with a physical impairment become a risky challenge. Simple inexpensive modifications are hugely beneficial to assist our companions achieving a comfortable life well into old age.

These interventions are often overlooked as there is a belief that a dog is more agile and stable than a human because they have four legs. Unfortunately this is not true. With diseases like arthritis, that cause pain and reduced function, the dog will offload that limb and use it less. Muscle mass and function reduces, as if you don’t use it, you will lose it. This functional loss also includes strength, balance, reaction times and agility. They lose their physical coping mechanisms, and what was once easy becomes hard. A few steps from the living room to the kitchen become a balance challenge. The stairs to the bedroom become hard work for weak wobbly limbs leaving them liable to falling.

Through adapting your dog’s environment, you will not only improve their physical comfort levels and reduce the risk of injury, you will likely slow the progression of the disease, and positively influence their emotional state through reducing stress and anxiety.

Owners must remember dogs are incredible at coping with the world that we surround them in. They will continue as best they can, no matter the circumstance. A dog with painful, weak limbs will continue to cross a slippery floor to reach the resources that are important to them such as their food and water, or their exit point to the garden, or to simply be with their owner/friend. This does not mean that that activity is not painful or dangerous to them. Comprehending their capability, being aware of the risks and adjusting to improve safety and comfort is an essential part of a chronic pain management plan.

Floors For Paws PawSafe flooring is a CAM approved product that ensures safe and cushioned footing for your dog. https://www.floorsforpaws.com/commercial/

Exercise

Managing your dog’s exercise levels is essential to the management of arthritis. We must remember that our dogs don’t have the forethought that hours of boisterous play, ball chasing or running off the lead is likely to cause them pain later. At the time they will be under the influence of endorphins and other pain-relieving neurochemicals. The pain is likely to come later and will not be associated with the activity due to the time delay. This is well illustrated through clicker training theory. A click is an effective reward if done at the time of wanted behaviour. It will not be effective an hour after the wanted behaviour has occurred because it will not be associated.

With their inability to link activity with deterioration in pain later, we must influence what they do.

As mentioned previously, there are countless presentations of arthritis, from very mild undetectable arthritis that does not affect their capabilities, to severe arthritis that debilitates their every move and their quality of life. Offering advice that can support such a wide spectrum of disease presentation is nigh on impossible, but there are some crucial points to understand when making an exercise plan.

Diet and nutrition

It is globally agreed that the most important factor that may influence choice of diet for an arthritic dog is reaching and maintaining optimal body weight. Being overweight (110% of their recommended body weight) or obese (120% of their recommended bodyweight) has significant impact on pain control and progression of arthritis. Ensuring the diet chosen enables controlled weight loss if needed or maintained weight if already at the appropriate weight is a priority.

Canine Arthritis management offer us owners a huge amount of essential information and advice for dog owners. Even if your dog is not arthritic CAM will give priceless advice on making sure they never do! https://caninearthritis.co.uk/

The Candy Story – Romanian Rescue dogs

Romanian rescue dog

In December 2021 we were approached by a lady who volunteers for a UK registered charity called Romanian Rescue Appeal, Fiona has seen our Pawsafe flooring online and was convinced that this was the flooring needed for one of their dogs; Candy.

Candy was severely injured and in a lot of pain when she was rescued, this was put down to her being hit by a car whilst on the streets. There was no option following an x-ray and examination by the veterinary team but to amputate both her back legs. Following her operation Candy was living in a pen in the shelter mainly on a piece of wooden decking as the floor was concrete and she was having real difficulty on it. The concrete was cold, hard and rough and as you can image poor Candy was ending up with sores and cuts having to constantly drag herself around on it; she was also putting even more pressure on her front two legs because of the effort of moving on this surface.

We had no option but to donate some of our CAM Endorsed PawSafe flooring to Romania as Fiona was right; PawSafe was perfect for Candy.

The PawSafe is a cushioned roll vinyl with great anti-slip properties; it is waterproof, softer, warmer and a lot easier for Candy to move around on, and because it is cushioned it is not putting so much pressure on her joints. I could go on to explain to you how well Candy does on the flooring and that she chooses to sleep stretched out on it instead of her bed, her sores and cuts are healing, and she seems so much happier (but I think from the video you can tell all that yourself.)

Despite everything Candy has had to endure she is a loving and trusting dog with a big personality. Both Candy and Samson are looking for their forever home if anyone has room in their homes and hearts for these two.

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