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.
