Best flooring for veterinary clinics – supporting fear-free practice and optimal care

best flooring veterinary

Our latest guide to the best flooring for veterinary clinics, considering durability, cleanliness, noise reduction, and how they align with fear-free practice principles.

Choosing the best flooring for veterinary clinics is crucial for creating a safe, hygienic, and welcoming environment for both animals and staff. Flooring needs to endure heavy foot traffic, animal claws, and regular cleanings, while also fostering a fear-free atmosphere for pets who may be anxious. There are many options for vets, including:

Sealed concrete

Sealed concrete is an excellent choice for clinics seeking a durable, long-lasting flooring option. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, chemical spills, and constant cleaning, all while providing a modern, clean aesthetic. Concrete can also be treated with epoxy or urethane coatings to improve resistance to scratches, stains, and microbial growth.

However, for fear-free practices, concrete is far from ideal due to its hardness and potentially noisy echo. It is also cold and unwelcoming for pets and humans alike, and can represent a slip hazard.

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT)

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) combines the practicality of vinyl with the visual appeal of natural materials like wood or stone, offering clinics a way to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere without sacrificing durability. LVT is waterproof, stain-resistant, and relatively sound-absorbent, making it a fantastic choice for fear-free practices.

The aesthetics of LVT can be particularly helpful in reducing stress for pet owners, who often transmit anxiety to their pets. Creating a calm, beautiful space can set both owners and pets at ease. LVT also allows clinics to incorporate colours that are known to calm pets, such as softer earth tones. At Floors for Paws, we offer the CAM-endorsed Pawsafe Domestic range plus a choice of luxury vinyl planks or luxury vinyl tiles in our luxury vinyl range.

Commercial vinyl flooring – practical and hygienic

Sheet vinyl is perhaps the best flooring for veterinary clinics due to its durability, low cost, and easy maintenance. High-quality vinyl flooring resists scratches from claws, is water-resistant, and can be cleaned quickly—a critical feature in any environment handling pets and medical procedures. Our guide to sheet vinyl flooring has lots more information.

For fear-free practice, vinyl’s ability to reduce noise is especially beneficial. Loud noises, like footsteps or shifting furniture, can contribute to a pet’s anxiety. Sound-dampening vinyl options can help minimise these disturbances, creating a quieter, more comfortable space for animals. Additionally, slip-resistant vinyl options makes it safer for pets, particularly older or injured animals who may struggle on slick surfaces.

Flooring for a fear free veterinary practice

Incorporating fear-free principles in veterinary clinics extends beyond gentle handling techniques; it’s also about creating an environment that reduces anxiety triggers. Flooring plays a key role in this strategy, as it influences noise levels, safety, and the overall ambiance of the clinic. To find out more about fear free vets, read What is a fear free vet?

Best flooring for veterinary clinics from Floors for Paws

Choosing the best flooring for a veterinary clinic not only improves functionality and cleanliness but also supports a fear-free approach to veterinary care—creating a happier, calmer experience for pets, owners, and clinic staff alike. At Floors for Paws, our Pawsafe Commercial range has been developed with the support of veterinarians and endorsed by Canine Arthritis Management (CAM). Offering the highest slip rating of any commercial vinyl flooring on the market currently, this sheet vinyl flooring comes in a choice of wood- or stone-effect finishes, making it ideal for both consultation and reception areas. Completely waterproof, the Pawsafe Commercial range will withstand daily, deep cleaning too.  Constructed from multiple layers, the sheet vinyl has an anti-slip layer, a cushion comfort layer, an insulated backing layer, and a UV-cured polyurethane top layer for long lasting durability and protection. With a 10-year commercial guarantee, it’s easy to see why Pawsafe Commercial is popular with vets around the country. But, to see for yourself, you can order three free samples and find out what all the excitement is about!

For more information, email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or give the team a call on 01522 300218 today.

Things to consider when buying vinyl flooring

Our latest guide looks at what you should consider when buying vinyl flooring for your business.

As pet owners, when it comes to the flooring in our homes, we only want the best for our four-legged friends. But when you also run a business that welcomes dogs, how do you choose the flooring for your premises and what do you need to take into account?

Non slip flooring for dogs

Whether your customers and clientele have two or four legs, anti slip flooring is essential. Old dogs and puppies alike need to feel secure on the flooring beneath their paws – young pups may be shaky or unsteady, while older dogs may be suffering from canine arthritis. And of course, there are breeds that are more naturally disposed to conditions such as hip dysplasia.

Dog pee proof flooring

Accidents are an occupational hazard for vets, canine café owners, dog groomers, and dog day care centre owners. Unless you are in a position to change your flooring on a regular basis, you need a waterproof flooring option. Compared to carpet that will soak up the pee like a sponge, wooden floors that will stain and warp, laminate floors that will buckle and ceramic tiles that will turn into an ice rink, vinyl flooring when professionally installed is virtually impenetrable and completely waterproof.

Low maintenance flooring

Low maintenance flooring is essential if your staff are not going to spend the majority of their day cleaning it! This is particularly important for high traffic areas such as reception areas and treatment rooms. A vinyl flooring solution that requires little more than regular sweeping or vacuuming is important.

Durable flooring

Floors that are exposed on a regular basis to sharp claws must be able to withstand the wear and tear and come out looking good after being Pawed at all day long!

Good looking flooring

When you are running a business, you want your premises to feel warm and welcoming to visitors and your choice of flooring plays a big part in this. When your flooring looks fantastic, your customers will notice and this can only reflect on the reputation of your business.

How vinyl flooring from Floor for Paws ticks all the boxes

As well as our Pawsafe Domestic range and our luxury vinyl range, we also supply the Pawsafe Commercial range. This exceptional quality, vet-endorsed sheet vinyl is supplied on the roll, like carpet, offering all the following benefits to business owners:

  • The highest slip rating for any commercial vinyl flooring currently on the market.
  • A textured surface to aid traction and stability.
  • Waterproof – with fewer joins required, our commercial vinyl has a completely impenetrable and waterproof surface.
  • Vinyl flooring is low maintenance requiring little more than regular sweeping and mopping. How to clean sheet vinyl floors will tell you how to deep clean your Pawsafe commercial floor and tell you what to avoid.
  • The Pawsafe commercial range has a multi-layered construction which includes layers heat fused together for extra strength and durability. A generous final layer of polyurethane is applied to the vinyl and cured under UV lights for long lasting protection.
  • Aesthetically, our commercial flooring is offered in a choice of wood- or stone-effect finishes allowing you to coordinate your premises and create an appealing environment.

Sheet vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws

If you would like to experience our Pawsafe commercial range for yourself, simply request up to three free samples to see which would suit your business. To place an order, or for any further questions, give us a call on 01522 300218 or send an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

Which dog breeds need non-slip flooring?

Dog breeds non slip flooring

All dogs will benefit from non-slip flooring and for dog breeds prone to bone and joint health concerns, such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, or post-surgery recovery, having non-slip flooring is essential. We look at the breeds that are particularly prone to joint problems and will benefit greatly from non-slip surfaces to avoid strain and prevent injury and costs to dog owners. Here are some of the breeds that will benefit the most from non-slip flooring:

1. Labrador Retrievers – Prone to hip dysplasia and arthritis, especially in their senior years, they need stable flooring to avoid unnecessary joint stress.
2. German Shepherds – Often affected by hip and elbow dysplasia, a secure, non-slippery floor can help prevent falls that exacerbate these conditions.
3. Golden Retrievers – Like Labradors, they are susceptible to joint issues. Non-slip flooring can prevent joint strain as they age.
4. Dachshunds – Their long backs make them prone to spinal issues like IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease). A non-slip surface can help them avoid sudden slips that might injure their spine.
5. Boxers – Prone to arthritis and hip problems, they benefit from a surface that provides traction to avoid stress on their joints.
6. Great Danes – Their large size increases the strain on their joints, making non-slip surfaces crucial to reduce the risk of injury.
The onset of joint injury and canine arthritis is not in small part to exposure on slippery floors from an early age.
7. Basset Hounds – Like Dachshunds, their long backs and short legs make them vulnerable to spinal problems, so a stable surface is key.

According to physiotherapists, non-slip floors can aid in improving the quality of life for dogs with mobility challenges. The PDSA highlights the importance of physiotherapy, which often includes advice on adapting the home environment for dogs with joint conditions. Flooring that provides traction can prevent falls and further injury, especially for senior dogs or those recovering from surgery.

A puppy who has safe flooring in their home environment is less likely to develop joint issues in later life. Other factors include genetics, over exertion in play and nutrition.

For less Vet bills and a heathier dog please visit: PawSafe domestic range 

LVT Vs ceramic tiles – the pros and cons

mix and match

A guide to the pros and cons of LVT vs ceramic tiles for the pet owner.

As technology has advanced, so too has the quality of vinyl flooring and today it is almost indistinguishable from ceramic tiles in looks and quality. So, what are the pros and cons of each for the discerning pet owner?

Aesthetics and choice; LVT vs Ceramic tiles

LVT flooring is offered in a wide variety of styles and colours and is produced in such a way that the photographic top layer mimics the appearance of the finest ceramic tile. At Floors for Paws, our luxury vinyl tile range is offered in a choice of 6 stone effect finishes, as well as 6 wood effect finishes.

Durability

Both LVT flooring and ceramic tiles are hardwearing and durable. Where LVT has the edge, however, is in its resistance to cracking and damage. Ceramic tiles crack easily as they are inflexible and have no ‘give’ and once damaged, are difficult and expensive to repair or replace.  The flexibility of luxury vinyl allows it to absorb impacts from heavy objects without being damaged.

Cost

Luxury vinyl tile is much more cost effective than ceramic which is often as expensive as quality solid hardwood floors.

Care and maintenance

Both LVT and ceramic tiles are easy to keep clean and require little more than regular sweeping and the occasional deeper clean (see How to clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners). However, ceramic tiles can stain and grout in joints and seams may need replacing over time.

The best flooring for dogs

For homes with no pets, the choice between ceramic and luxury vinyl tiling comes down to personal preference. Where you have pets, however, there is no contest when assessing LVT vs ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are cold and extremely uncomfortable for pets to lie on, particularly senior dogs who may be suffering from canine arthritis. They are also extremely slippery underfoot and paw. This presents a high risk of slipping which is dangerous for dogs – puppies finding their feet need stability as they learn to navigate the world to enable their gait to develop ‘normally’, and older dogs need to minimise the threat of dislocation and broken bones.  Breeds that are prone to hip dysplasia need to feel steady when walking too, to prevent further joint deterioration.

LVT flooring from Floor for Paws

Our Pawsafe Domestic range is the best non slip flooring for dogs, offering the highest slip rating of any vinyl flooring currently available, and with a textured surface that helps dogs of all ages to maintain their balance. A comfort cushion layer makes it comfortable to lie on (and walk on for humans too!) and the flooring comes with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

To find out more about our Pawsafe Domestic range, drop the team an email to info@floorsforpaws.com or call us on 01522 300218 today.

Non-slip flooring for dogs

Why do dogs needs non-slip flooring? And what are the risks for them of not having it? Here, we look at non slip flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws.

Why do dogs need non-slip flooring?

  • Smooth floors that are hard and slippery can greatly hinder certain canine conditions. A major condition and a big concern for larger breeds is hip dysplasia, where hip joints don’t fit together as they should. While this is often genetic, research shows the significant part that environmental factors play in controlling the effects of the condition. Slips on smooth floors can greatly exacerbate the condition as dogs have no traction, and can lead to dislocation.
  • Young pups that are growing and developing their muscles need to feel stable under-paw while navigating the world. Their spatial awareness is yet to develop and they need to learn to negotiate obstacle in the home that could prevent them from moving around easily. While doing this, they need a flooring that will maintain their stability that will reduce the risks to them of slopping and colliding with anything that could inflict injury.
  • Older dogs often develop canine arthritis and, as with humans, absolutely need to maintain their joint stability. Traction is important in providing arthritic elderly dogs with stability. When they are stable and the risk of slipping is reduced, older dogs will move more confidently.

What non-slip flooring offers dogs

Having looked at why dogs need non-slop flooring, let’s now look at how it helps them.

  • Non-slip flooring gives dogs the confidence to move freely. Their gait will become more natural when they do not have to alter their walking style just to remain upright which will reduce any anxiety they feel when moving around.
  • Stability through traction helps your dog to maintain their balance. This is important for dogs at any age, regardless of how healthy they are.
  • Non-slip flooring protects joints by relieving the pressure on them and minimising strains and injuries.

So in a nutshell, flooring such as hardwood, ceramic tiles and laminate pose a serious risk to your dogs, and a risk that could lead to substantial vet bills over the years. At Floors for Paws, our flooring saves you money and are both pet-friendly and pet owner-friendly.

Non-slip flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

Both our Pawsafe Domestic range and our Pawsafe Commercial range have a market-leading slip rating and both are endorsed by Canine Arthritis Management. CAM’s mission it is to educate dog owners about the risks to pets from slippery floors and we are proud to be ambassadors for them. Additionally, we have also been the first choice for many leading veterinary practices, including Fauna Vets who operate a fear-free veterinary practice.

If you are looking for a flooring company that places your dog’s needs equally with yours, and that offers a sustainable choice (our floors are free from chemicals and have an ultra-low VOC count), then give us a call today to see how we can help. Call the team on 01522 300218 or drop us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com and let’s chat!

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.