A guide to commercial non-slip vinyl flooring

Our latest guide to the best commercial non-slip flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws.

Commercial premises come in many forms in today’s world from factories and shops, to offices and hotels. There are also many types of business that welcome dogs into their premises, from veterinary practices and dog grooming businesses, to canine cafes and dog daycare centres. Increasingly, too, businesses are becoming more pet friendly, with many pubs and shops allowing our four legged friends to come in, not to mention any establishment that welcomes assistance dogs and their owners. With this in mind, we look at why flooring choice is so important.

What we need from commercial vinyl flooring

Commercial flooring that does not have to endure four-legged traffic still needs to be hardwearing and durable while being attractive and low maintenance. When we add dogs into the mix, the list of features our flooring has to offer increases!

What does commercial flooring for dogs need to offer?

In addition to the above features, the best flooring for dogs should be comfortable (they spend a lot of time lying down!), waterproof, scratch-resistant and non-slip. Neighbours might also prefer it to be sound absorbing!

At Floors for Paws, we specialise in the best flooring for dogs and we offer three pet-friendly flooring options. Our luxury vinyl range is perfect for creating beautiful floors in homes of every style and type. Offered in tiles or planks, in a choice of wood- and stone-effect finishes, this beautiful flooring is ideal for creating traditional herringbone patterns.

Pawsafe Domestic range

Endorsed by Canine Arthritis Management (CAM) for its suitability for dogs suffering from arthritis, our Pawsafe Domestic range of vinyl flooring has the highest slip rating of any luxury vinyl plank currently on the market. This makes it ideal where dogs of any age need to have a secure footing that will reduce the risk of slipping or falling. Where smooth, hard and unforgiving flooring (wood, laminate and ceramic tiles) can worsen pre-existing conditions such as hip dysplasia, or cause injuries that can contribute to its development, the Pawsafe Domestic range provides a non-slip, textured surface. It also offers a high level of sound absorption plus a thick wear layer and a comfort layer for extra cushioning.

The Pawsafe Domestic range is recommended for homes and all pet friendly businesses where it provides an attractive and warm welcome to visitors. When professionally installed, the range carries a 30-year domestic guarantee or a 10-year commercial guarantee.

Pawsafe Commercial range

Our Pawsafe Commercial range is a vinyl roll flooring that is completely waterproof. With the same high slip rating as our Domestic range and endorsed by CAM (learn more here), this is the perfect flooring for vet practices and canine cafes, and can be washed down daily. When used alongside our Pawsafe Domestic range, this commercial non-slip vinyl flooring offers a complete solution for entrance  and reception rooms, consultation rooms and operating theatres.

The best non-slip flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

We don’t want you to take our word for it! Try before you buy on any of our ranges and choose up to three free samples. Then head over to our reviews on Trustpilot and read what our happy customers are saying about us. After that, if you would like to discuss how we can help your business with our commercial non-slip flooring for dogs, send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com or give our friendly team a call on 01522 300218.

Smooth floors bad for dogs

Floors for paws logo

The Hidden Danger of Smooth Floors: Protecting Your Dog from Hip Dysplasia

As a responsible dog owner, ensuring the health and safety of your furry friend is a top priority. While you might have considered their diet, exercise, and regular vet check-ups, have you thought about the impact your flooring could be having on their well-being? Many dog owners don’t realize that hard, smooth floors can lead to serious injuries, including hip dysplasia. In this blog, we explore why anti-slip flooring is essential for pet owners and how it can protect your beloved canine companion.

Understanding Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Hip dysplasia is a common condition in dogs, particularly in larger breeds, where the hip joint doesn’t fit together perfectly. This leads to joint instability, pain, and eventually arthritis. While genetics play a significant role in the development of hip dysplasia, environmental factors like flooring can exacerbate the condition or trigger injuries that contribute to its onset so it is something all dog owners should consider.

https://petpainrelief.co.uk/contributions-to-canine-arthritis-management/

The Risks of Smooth, Hard Floors

Smooth floors such as hardwood, laminate, or tile can be hazardous for dogs. These surfaces can be slippery, especially for dogs that love to run and play indoors. They can pose a risk in the following ways:

  1. Slips and Falls: Dogs can easily slip on smooth surfaces, leading to falls that may cause immediate injuries like sprains or fractures.
  2. Joint Stress: Constant slipping puts extra stress on your dog’s joints, particularly the hips, which can contribute to the development of hip dysplasia.
  3. Lack of Traction: Without proper traction, dogs may struggle to move naturally, which can affect their gait and overall mobility, leading to long-term musculoskeletal issues.

The Importance of Anti-Slip Flooring for your dog

Investing in anti-slip flooring can significantly reduce the risks associated with hard, smooth floors. Here’s why anti-slip flooring is a game-changer for pet owners:

Enhanced Safety:

Anti-slip flooring provides better traction, reducing the likelihood of slips and falls. This makes your home a safer environment for your dog to move around freely.

Joint Protection:

By preventing slips, anti-slip flooring helps protect your dog’s joints from unnecessary stress and strain, which is crucial for preventing hip dysplasia.

Comfort and Confidence:

Dogs feel more confident and comfortable walking and playing on surfaces where they have a good grip. This can improve their quality of life and overall happiness while in the home environment.

Types of Anti-Slip Flooring for Dog Owners

There are several types of anti-slip flooring options that can benefit both your pet:

1.Vinyl Flooring: Durable, easy to clean, and available in anti-slip varieties, vinyl flooring is an excellent choice for pet owners. It provides good traction and is resistant to scratches and stains.

2. Rubber Flooring: Often used in gyms, rubber flooring offers superb grip and cushioning, making it ideal for areas where your dog is most active. Can be marked by dog claws.

3.Textured Laminate: While most laminate can be slippery, textured options provide better traction without sacrificing the look of traditional wood flooring. Not 100% water/pee proof.

4. Carpet Tiles: Carpet tiles with a low pile can provide traction while being easier to clean and replace than traditional carpets but are not hypo-allergenic or easy to keep clean with dogs.

Additional Tips for a Pet-Friendly Home

In addition to choosing the right flooring, here are a few more tips to create a safe and comfortable environment for your dog:

– Area Rugs and Runners:

Place area rugs or runners in high-traffic areas to provide extra grip and cushioning.

– Regular Nail Trimming:

Keep your dog’s nails trimmed to prevent them from slipping on smooth surfaces.

– Exercise and Weight Management:

Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the strain on your dog’s joints.

https://caninearthritis.co.uk/managing-arthritis/what-can-be-done/

Conclusion

Your dog’s health and safety are important, and the type of flooring in your home plays a crucial role in their well-being. By choosing anti-slip flooring, you can help prevent injuries and conditions like hip dysplasia, ensuring your furry friend enjoys a happy, healthy life. At Floors for Paws, we understand the unique needs of dog owners and offer a range of flooring solutions designed with your pet’s safety in mind. but it has also got to be right for you too! You want it to be long-lasting, waterproof, maintenance free, scratch resistant and attractive. Choose floors for paws anti-slip flooring today and give your dog the secure, comfortable home they deserve without compromise on your side.

For more information on pet-friendly vinyl flooring options, visit Floors for Paws and discover how we can help you create a safer environment for your beloved dog.

 

A guide to commercial flooring

Representing a financial and strategic investment for business owners, the right commercial flooring is essential. Our guide tells you what to look for!

What is commercial flooring?

Commercial flooring refers to flooring used in any commercial setting or business. However, as commercial spaces include shops, hotels and restaurants, offices, schools, veterinarian practices, factories and so much more, it’s not surprising that not every flooring will suit every business. So, for business owners, what options are there and what qualities do you need in your flooring?

Types of commercial flooring and the businesses they are suitable for

Carpet – great for busy offices where it will be comfortable and sound absorbing.

Luxury vinyl tiles/sheet vinyl – good for settings that need durability and low maintenance, such as healthcare settings.

Ceramic or porcelain tiles – ideal for high end establishments such as luxury hotels and independent, boutique shops.

Hardwood flooring – for anywhere wanting to create a timeless atmosphere, combined with durability. Great for retail spaces and offices.

Laminate flooring – a cost-effective way of recreating the look of a hardwood floor, laminate works well in communal office areas and retail spaces.

Features of good commercial flooring

Commercial flooring has to tick many boxes, depending on the setting, as follows:

  • Low maintenance flooring is a must where it experiences high volume traffic.
  • Aesthetics – do not underestimate the importance of the look of your floor – it needs to suit your business and work with your interior.
  • Flooring has to be durable enough to withstand the volume of traffic and still maintain its looks.
  • Moisture resistant – does the flooring need to cope with a variety of conditions? For example, wet foot traffic? Spillages in restaurants? A high volume of cleaning? Your flooring choice is important!

But what happens when your business involves four-legged paw traffic? You might be a bustling veterinary practice offering a fear-free environment, or a dog daycare centre, or you may have a dog-friendly café. Does your commercial flooring need to tick different boxes? Almost certainly!

Features of good commercial flooring for dogs

  • Non slip flooring for dogs is essential in any setting but commercial non slip flooring is vital for pets and their owners. All dogs particularly puppies and seniors, can slip and fall, injuring themselves. A flooring that offers stability and helps them maintain their balance is non-negotiable.
  • For our pets, who spend the majority of their waking hours lying down, a safe and comfortable floor is a must to avoid pressure sores.
  • Durability is key if your pet-friendly flooring is to cope with the wear and tear inflicted by paws and claws. It needs to be pee-resistant too, stand up well to being chewed and scratched, and be easy to maintain.
  • Waterproof flooring is essential for floors that will be washed and cleaned on a daily basis.
  • A steady stream of noisy paws on your commercial flooring could upset your neighbours very quickly so a sound absorbing flooring is useful.

Head over to The importance of non-slip flooring for dogs and their owners to find out more.

At Floors For Paws, we believe that vinyl flooring is the best flooring for dogs, and we have worked hard in conjunction with CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), to develop a range of commercial vinyl flooring that we believe is the best non slip flooring for dogs currently on the market.

Commercial non slip flooring from Floors For Paws

Our Pawsafe Commercial range has the highest slip rating for any commercial vinyl on today’s market and features a cushion comfort layer to ease old bones, that also increases its ability to absorb noise. Supplied on the roll (like carpet), the vinyl requires very few, if any joins (depending on the area to be covered) making it completely impervious to moisture penetration and therefore completely waterproof. It is offered in a choice of colours and patterns to give a more welcoming aesthetic to your business and, when used alongside the Pawsafe Domestic range, can offer a completely coordinated look for your premises.

To find out more or to order up to three free samples, click here or contact us by phone on 01522 300218 or email at info@floorsforpaws.com

 

Flooring that saves you money

Flooring that saves you money

Flooring that saves you money

The average cost of managing hip dysplasia in dogs over their lifetime can vary significantly based on the severity of the condition, the types of treatments pursued, and the dog’s individual response to treatment. Here are some cost estimates for different aspects of managing hip dysplasia in dogs in the UK:

Mild Hip Dysplasia (non-surgical management):

– Initial diagnosis: £250 to £500

– Medications and supplements: £40 to £90 per month (approximately £480 to £1,080 per year)

– Physiotherapy (occasional): £300 to £600 per year

Total over 10 years: £6,050 to £12,700

Moderate Hip Dysplasia (non-surgical management with regular therapy)

– Initial diagnosis: £250 to £500

– Medications and supplements: £60 to £120 per month (approximately £720 to £1,440 per year)

– Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy: £600 to £1,200 per year

Total over 10 years: £9,050 to £18,900

Severe Hip Dysplasia (surgical intervention):

– Initial diagnosis: £250 to £500

– Surgery (e.g., Total Hip Replacement): £4,000 to £7,000 per hip

– Post-surgical care and physiotherapy: £500 to £1,200 per year

Total over 10 years (assuming one hip surgery): £14,750 to £29,500

Summary:

– Mild Hip Dysplasia: £6,050 to £12,700

– Moderate Hip Dysplasia: £9,050 to £18,900

– Severe Hip Dysplasia (one hip surgery): £14,750 to £29,500

These figures are approximate and can vary based on individual circumstances, the specific treatments chosen, and geographic location within the UK. It’s always advisable to consult with a veterinarian for a tailored treatment plan and cost estimate for a specific dog. Additionally, pet insurance can help offset some of these costs, so it’s worth considering this option as well.

Hip dysplasia in dogs is primarily a genetic condition, influenced by a variety of factors including genetics, nutrition, growth rate, and environmental factors. The exact percentage of hip dysplasia cases caused specifically by slippery floors is not well-documented in scientific literature. However, it is widely acknowledged that environmental factors, including flooring, can exacerbate the condition and potentially contribute to its development in genetically predisposed dogs.

There is a lot of expert consensus these days that slippery floors can exacerbate hip dysplasia in dogs. It can be difficult for them to maintain stable footing, which can lead to increased joint stress and potential injuries. For example Flicker: https://pawflicker.com/hip-dysplasia-in-dogs-causes-symptoms-and-solutions/ Additionally, “Dogster” advises that managing a dog’s environment to reduce slipping can help mitigate some of the physical challenges associated with hip dysplasia

15 Ways to Keep Dogs from Slipping & Sliding On Floors: Expert Tips Dogster https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/how-to-keep-dogs-from-slipping-sliding-on-floors).

Experts and veterinarians often suggest using non-slip solutions like traction socks, mats, and rugs to provide safer walking surfaces for dogs prone to hip dysplasia. This kind of proactive management can help reduce the risk of joint injuries and provide better support for dogs already suffering from the condition.

The average cost of managing hip dysplasia in dogs over their lifetime can vary significantly based on the severity of the condition, the types of treatments pursued, and the dog’s individual response to treatment. Here are some cost estimates for different aspects of managing hip dysplasia in dogs in the UK:

The above management techniques will help your dog, but are not always practical or be-fitting of an attractive interior.

At Floors for paws; We aim to give you and your dog flooring that is as beautiful as it is safe and actually be a flooring that saves you money!

At Floors for Paws, our PawSafe flooring ranges have been developed in partnership with Canine Arthritis Management (CAM) to be kind to dogs. 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. The multi-layered construction has a textured surface layer plus a soft, comfort layer for kinder cushioning to joints.

If you want a flooring that saves you money, simply call us today on 01522 300218 to find out more, or  drop us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

Canine Arthritis – Prevention is the best solution

Canine arthritis

Thanks to Canine Arthritis Management, headed by Super Vet Hannah Capon we know have a much better indicator of the best treatment for dogs with Arthritis. If you have a dog who is, or you think is struggling with this head over to their website for an in depth look at the best options to help your dog. https://caninearthritis.co.uk/managing-arthritis/

Arthritis is a condition that tends to appear later in life but is often due to the accumulation of joint wear and tear and injuries throughout a dog’s life. 

One of the main pieces of advice relates to slippery floors. If you have a dog with any condition which affects their gait it is important that you look at your flooring in and around the home. Many dogs in the later stages of Arthritis will need rugs, runners or carpet offcuts if the home has hard, smooth flooring. 

But how do we prevent so many cases of arthritis? We at Floors For Paws believe that having an Anti-slip floor will go a long way to protect the joints of your dog. One of the main causes of injury in canines is from slipping on floors. Our work with Animal physios highlighted the correlation between smooth flooring and injury in dogs. 

A safe flooring for your dog will limit the risk of joint injuries and potential Vet bills. 

Along with arthritis Floors For Paws has helped dogs with ACL/CCL injury, hip dysplasia, spinal injury, and degenerative myelopathy who had previously struggled on smooth flooring. 

 

Video below: Donna Wills (PGC A Phys, RVN. Member of IAAT, BVNA and RAMP – Founder of Animal Physiotherapy Ltd) and Hannah Capon (MA Vet MB MRCVS Director of Canine Arthritis Management) discuss flooring effects on Canine Arthritis.

 

  

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

vet in practice

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.

 

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 need for non-slip flooring for dogs

 

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 critical need for non-slip flooring to prevent joint damage in dogs and the 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 – What is best for your beloved dog?

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. Prevent injury.

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

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.