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

safe flooring for dogs

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

 

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

Understanding the Impact of Slippery Floors on Joint Health

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

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

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

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

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

The Role of Non-Slip Flooring in Joint Protection

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

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

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

Choosing Non-Slip Flooring for Your Home

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

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

Pawsafe Domestic Range 

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

Best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

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

Pet-friendly floors

dog on luxury vinyl flooring

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

 

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

Features of pet friendly floors for owners

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

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

Best pet friendly flooring for pets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Try before you buy at Floors for Paws

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

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.

Best non-slip flooring for dogs and their owners

Award winning vet endorses Floors for paws

The best flooring for dogs is one that keeps them safe and makes them feel confident. Here, we look at the best non-slip flooring for dogs and their owners.

 

As babies, we crawl before finding our feet and learning to walk, but for our four-legged friends, there is no crawling stage beyond their first couple of weeks – they simply get up and off they go. But like us, those initial steps can be shaky and unsteady and at Floors for Paws, we believe it’s important they have flooring beneath them that will help and not hinder them. Dogs can also develop conditions over time that can seriously impair their ability to walk as they get older, such as hip dysplasia and canine arthritis. So, what should we be looking for in our flooring choices?

Non slip flooring for dogs

Carpet is definitely non-slip and can be soft and warm underfoot, but for the sloppy eater or the messy drinker or the puppy in training, it is not practical, being hard to clean and acting like a sponge to every type of spillage. The alternatives of solid wood, laminate and ceramic flooring look great and are durable and hardwearing, but they are all highly slippery for dogs and, in the case of ceramic flooring, cold to the touch. At Floor for Paws, our dog friendly non slip flooring ticks every box that owners want and need; it’s kind to pets of all ages, practical and easy to clean, and it looks great!

Best non slip flooring for dogs from Floor for Paws

Our Pawsafe Commercial and Pawsafe Domestic ranges have both been endorsed by Dr Hannah Capon MA Vet MB MRCVS, CCRP the founder of CAM (Canine Arthritis Management).

Pawsafe Commercial Flooring

In commercial settings that welcome lots of dogs, such as veterinary practices, dog daycare and boarding kennels, anti slip flooring for dogs is essential. The Pawsafe Commercial range is perfect for high traffic areas such as treatment areas or consultation rooms and it boasts the highest slip rating score for commercial vinyl flooring currently available in the UK. It is supplied on the roll so far fewer joins in the vinyl are necessary, providing a completely waterproof surface. The multi-layered construction includes not only an anti-slip layer, but also a cushion comfort layer sandwiched between an insulated backing layer and a UV-cured polyurethane top layer for long lasting durability and protection. When professionally installed, we can offer a 10-year commercial guarantee with any of the wood- or stone-effect flooring options from the Pawsafe Commercial range.

Pawsafe Domestic Flooring

The perfect complement to our commercial vinyl flooring, our Pawsafe Domestic range can be used in any commercial reception area or waiting room to create a welcoming environment for visitors with a far less clinical aesthetic. Offered in a choice of 18 different designs and two plank sizes to enable you to create classic herringbone designs anywhere in your home, the Pawsafe Domestic range is suitable for every type and style of home. Not only does the range have the highest slip rating on the market, but it is also hardwearing and scratch resistant and features a clever, textured surface layer that enables unsteady dogs to walk with less risk of losing their balance.

Dog proof flooring for pet owners

With over 150 5* reviews on Trustpilot, we know that our customers agree with us. From owners of pets with spinal issues who are prone to slipping, to dog trainers who have shot noise comparison videos of laminate flooring Vs vinyl flooring for Floor for Paws, we are able to help hundreds of pet owners each year. To find out why vinyl flooring is the best flooring for dogs, simply email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or give our friendly team a call on 01522 300218 today.

Best flooring for dogs

best flooring for dogs

Loving pet owners want the best of everything for their dogs and here, we take a close look at the best flooring for dogs.

 

When we talk about the best flooring for dogs, we often mean the best flooring for dog owners but at Floors for Paws, we believe that flooring can be both! As we previously discussed in our blog post ‘Pet-proof or pet-friendly – what’s the difference?’ dog proof flooring usually just means it will withstand wear and tear from pets and be easy to clean for owners, while pet friendly flooring will be kind to pets.

Dog friendly flooring

Our flooring has to be kind to our pets, whatever their age. Puppies who are finding their feet and older dogs who are losing their mobility, all need flooring that will help them and support their mobility. Which is why non-slip flooring for dogs is essential.

Non-slip flooring for dogs

Most of the non-carpet flooring solutions in today’s market – ceramic tiles, solid wood, and laminate – while durable and hardwearing, are unforgiving to our pets and pose a real risk of injury to them through slipping and falling. The best flooring for dogs, therefore, needs to offer them good grip and traction so that they can not only move across it with ease, but also get back up easily if they do lose their footing.

Pet friendly flooring

As well as offering a good slip rating, the best flooring for dogs must also cater to their other needs. Older, arthritic dogs are likely to spend a large part of their time lying down so a flooring that is comfortable for them is best. Carpet may be comfortable but it’s also very chewable(!) stains easily, will become damaged by spillages (think dog pee and water bowls) and provides a warm, safe home for fleas and pests. Likewise, hardwood floors, tiles and laminate can be cold and all are extremely hard and uncomfortable.

Pet-proof flooring

While the best flooring for dogs should meet their needs, it can also be pet-proof, and keep pet owners happy too. Flooring should be easy to clean, waterproof, scratch resistant and low maintenance. That’s a lot to ask of any flooring but at Floors for Paws, our vinyl flooring ticks all the boxes.

Why Floors for Paws offers the best flooring for dogs

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. Both ranges also offer the highest slip rating of any vinyl plank flooring and are therefore the best non-slip flooring for dogs currently in the market. Pet owners love our flooring because it’s kind to their pets and it’s great for them; read ‘Best flooring for pet owners’ to find out why.

If you want the best flooring for your dogs, simply call us today on 01522 300218 to find out more, or  drop us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

What can I do at home to help my dog with arthritis?

Canine arthritis friendly flooring

Just as we would help a relative with mobility issues and painful joints so we do with our pets too. Here, we show you what you can do at home to help a dog with arthritis.

 

The parallels between the challenges facing humans with arthritis and dogs with arthritis are remarkable. Where arthritis causes pain, limitations on everyday life thanks to reduced mobility, and anxiety about slipping and falling, we can assume that our beloved four-legged friends experience the same. So, as loving pet owners, is there anything we can do at home to help our arthritic pets?

Fortunately the answer is yes, we can make some small additions and changes in the home that will help!

Access to comfortable resting places

Consider increasing the number of dog beds in your home, positioning one in each of your dog’s favourite places to stop and have a lie down. Lying down eases joint pain so providing soft bedding such as blankets, duvets or specialist orthopaedic dog beds that offer extra cushioning , will go a long way to helping make your dog more comfortable.

Maintain a consistent temperature

Our wellbeing and state of mind is greatly affected by changes in environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity levels, and so are our dogs’. Cold affects joint mobility and heat can causes discomfort, so try to maintain a consistent temperature in your home throughout the year. Keeping your home warm in winter and well-ventilated in summer are just a couple of things that can easily be implemented that will help your pet.

Shorter walks

While our focus in this post is changes we can implement in the home, it’s important to remember that arthritic dogs should still be walked wherever possible. Simply reduce the length of time they are walked – two or three shorter walks are much kinder to an older dog than one very long walk. And always remember to follow even, well surfaced paths.

Flooring

Perhaps the biggest change we can make as dog lovers, is to consider the flooring in our homes. Where your dogs are older and perhaps suffering from the occasional accident, you need a hardwearing and durable option that will be easy to maintain and keep clean. Unfortunately for arthritic joints, these types of flooring – laminate, ceramic tiles, solid hardwood – can be hazardous at the least and downright dangerous at the worst.

Non-slip flooring for dogs

Non-slip flooring for dogs is essential in minimising the risk of falling and therefore potential injuries. Tiles, laminate and wood flooring are slippery in the extreme so look for a flooring solution that offers a textured surface. This will provide traction that will allow unsteady dogs to move more confidently.

Cushioned flooring

Cushioned flooring is great underfoot for humans and for arthritic dogs, offers comfort to painful joints. The shock absorbing qualities of cushioned flooring will let your dog move between lying, standing and sitting easier and more comfortably.

Best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws we put the needs of your pets first in everything we do. Whether you are looking for luxury vinyl plank flooring (our Pawsafe Domestic range), or LVT (our Luxury Vinyl range), you will find a wide choice of modern designs with the most realistic wood effect finish in today’s market. Both ranges offer a textured, non-slip surface layer with the best slip rating of any vinyl flooring on the market, plus an extra-soft, cushioned layer for comfort. When installed by a Floor for Paws approved contractor, our domestic flooring options come with a 25-year domestic guarantee.

To find out more send an email to info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218 today.

How to help your ageing dog

With the average lifespan of a dog being 10-13 years, it is important to understand how to help an ageing dog.

The life expectancy of any dog, just like humans, depends on a number of factors including lifestyle and diet but with dogs, their breed also affects their average lifespan. The RSPCA quotes studies that say crossbred dogs live an average 13.1 years compared to purebred dogs at 11.9 years. The society also tells us that the second main cause of death in older dogs is arthritis (12.4%). So, as responsible pet owners, how can we help our ageing dogs, in particular those with arthritic joints?

What are the signs of an ageing dog?

• Increased drinking
• Inability to enjoy walks/exercise without tiring
• Difficulty with balance
• Lethargy
• Increased tiredness
• Stiffness
• Limping
If your dog is finding it difficult to move around easily, or is struggling to lie or sit down, he is likely to be suffering from arthritic joints. A vet will be able to give a professional diagnosis and may prescribe supplements to help, and the following can be put in place at home.

How to help a dog with arthritis at home

• Try to maintain your dog’s weight at a healthy level. Excess weight will put added pressure on sore joints.
• Keep everything your dog needs within easy reach. Elevated food and water bowls will help them not to overstretch, and placing dog beds wherever they lie down will help them remain as comfortable as possible, but try to place them away from draughts.
• Consider changing their exercise regime – perhaps shorter but more frequent walks would be better than one or two long walks?
• Dogs who are walking less will need you to maintain their claws. Have them trimmed more often and be vigilant that they do not get long enough to cause problems.

Pet friendly flooring

Smooth, slippery floors present a risk to arthritic dogs who may find it difficult to maintain their balance on flooring with no grip. Hard flooring too can be painful for sore joints to lie down on and may even cause sores to develop. Unfortunately, the most popular flooring options in the home are not always the kindest for our dogs – the best and worst flooring for dogs may surprise you but it’s important to understand what your four legged friend needs.

Pet friendly flooring from Floor For Paws

We have worked closely with CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) to develop a range of luxury flooring that will be kind to dogs while ticking all the boxes for homeowners. Our Pawsafe Domestic range and our Luxury Vinyl range combine quality and style in tile or plank form in a wide range of colours and designs that work well in every room of the house.

Hardwearing and scratch resistant, the flooring has a cushion comfort layer that is kind to sore joints, and an anti-slip wear layer to reduce the risk of sliding and falling. We have also added a textured surface that allows your dog to move more confidently without losing their balance.

As if all the above wasn’t enough, our flooring is low maintenance, waterproof (no need to worry about incontinence in your older pet) and easy to clean, making it pet-owner friendly too! But, don’t just take our word for it. Why not choose up to three free samples from the Pawsafe Domestic range or the Luxury Vinyl range, and see for yourself.

If you have any questions or you need any advice on flooring for your ageing dog, our sales team is available to help. Simply give us a call on 01522 300218 or send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

How to help a dog with arthritis

Our latest guide to helping older dogs suffering from arthritis, to make their lives easier.

Arthritis in dogs

  • Canine arthritis develops over time just as human arthritis can and statistically, 80% of dogs over 8 years old will develop arthritis.
  • It isn’t just older dogs that can develop it however; an injury or wound suffered at any age can cause joint damage which can lead to inflammation and arthritis.
  • Sadly also, there are certain breeds that may be predisposed to canine arthritis, including popular breeds such as Golden Retrievers and Springer Spaniels, amongst others. In these cases, screening is available.
  • Ensuring your dog remains a healthy weight, and exercises regularly, will reduce the risk of being overweight which can also be a cause of arthritis through excessive weight putting stress on the joints.

Once you have identified that your dog is suffering with arthritis, there are lots of practical ways you can help to lessen the effects and of course, consulting a vet and canine dietary specialist who can offer practical advice will also help.

Easing arthritis in dogs

  • Lift food and water bowls off the ground (there are lots of different bowl stands available on the market). Doing this means that larger or taller breeds don’t have to lower their heads too far which can pull on painful joints.
  • Ensure your dog’s bed is as comfortable as possible and firm enough to offer support to painful joints. Arthritic dogs rest often and having several beds around the home will let them rest in comfort wherever they are.
  • As with humans, exercising arthritic joints to prevent immobility is very important but consider more frequent, shorter walks rather than one or two longer walks. This will be kinder on joints, as will walking on softer ground such as grass, that offers less impact stress than say concrete.
  • Keep claws well clipped to reduce the chance of slipping.
  • When walking an arthritic dog, try to stick to flat, dry ground. This will minimise the risk of your dog losing his footing and slipping or falling.

As well as minimising the risk of slipping while on a walk, it is important to ensure flooring at home does not pose a similar threat. At Floors for Paws, we specialise in dog-friendly flooring solutions that are kind to arthritic dogs.

Non slip flooring from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, we have combined quality and style in our range of pet-friendly, low-maintenance flooring. Where real wood, laminate and ceramic floors pose a real risk of slipping coupled with a hard landing, our vinyl solutions are perfect for dogs of all ages. With a textured, anti-slip surface and an extra-soft layer of protection, our ranges have been endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) who recommends them for older dogs and those with arthritis. Offered as tiles or planks in a wide range of colours and designs, our Pawsafe Domestic Range and our Luxury Vinyl Range are perfect for any room in the home. For businesses who experience a high volume of pet visitors, such as veterinary clinics, dog daycare centres, and canine cafes, our Pawsafe Commercial Range is supplied on the roll and offers the very best in pet-friendly flooring.

To discuss any aspect of our flooring and how it can help your dog remain as comfortable as possible for as long as possible, please call us today on 01522 300218 or send an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

What is herringbone flooring?

what is herrinbone flooring

Our complete guide to herringbone vinyl flooring – what it is and how to lay it.

What is herringbone flooring?

Herringbone is the name of a pattern originally created from traditional solid wood parquet block flooring. The term herringbone flooring is often used when referring to parquet flooring as it is the most popular pattern. Dating back to the 17th century, parquet flooring was expensive and therefore only found in the wealthiest and most extravagant of homes.

The herringbone pattern

Herringbone floors were traditionally created from plank shaped wooden blocks but, now, they can be created with block shaped vinyl tiles. Each plank is arranged at a 45 degree angle to the next to create a V-shape which gives the pattern a strong, geometric design.

Benefits of herringbone luxury vinyl flooring

  • Offering the same classic aesthetic of real wood parquet flooring, herringbone luxury vinyl flooring is a more economical option.
  • LVT herringbone planks are offered in a wide choice of colours and patterns.
  • LVT herringbone flooring is hardwearing and, unlike real wood, is scratch resistant.
  • Requiring nothing more than regular sweeping and mopping, herringbone vinyl flooring is extremely low maintenance.
  • It is also waterproof and slip resistant.

How to lay herringbone flooring

At Floors for Paws, our herringbone flooring is installed by attaching the planks to the subfloor with adhesive, to create a more secure hold. The bond formed between the vinyl planks and the subfloor means there is much less chance of movement in the flooring over time. The adhesive will also prevent warping, making it a great solution for areas prone to changes in moisture levels and/or temperature. As adhesive installation is more complex than click-and-lock systems, we advise using an approved installation specialist, which we are happy to recommend.

What rooms can herringbone flooring be used in?

Herringbone flooring is suitable for any room in the house, but its highly decorative appearance often lends itself to use in entrance hallways and reception rooms. In rooms that are free from clutter and not over-furnished, the flooring can be seen at its best. The herringbone pattern gives the illusion of space, making an area appear bigger, which makes it perfect for smaller rooms or narrow hallways. Where wooden parquet flooring is unsuitable for bathrooms and kitchens, the water resistance of LVT herringbone planks makes them ideal for these areas. A good tip to remember is that lighter coloured planks will make a darker space brighter and more open, while darker planks look effective against paler walls.

Herringbone luxury vinyl plank flooring from Floors for Paws

Our luxury vinyl range is currently available in 12 wood effect planks, perfect for creating herringbone patterns. Our Pawsafe Domestic range is offered in a choice of herringbone effect finishes or wooden plank finishes for the ultimate choice, and you can select up to three free samples from each range to help you find the best for your home. And, of course, all our flooring is safe and kind for pets, offering comfortable cushioning, with an anti-slip wear layer too.

If you have any questions about herringbone flooring, send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com or give our friendly team a call on 01522 300218 today.

Canine arthritis – everything you need to know

Just as humans develop arthritis with age, so do our four legged friends. Our latest guide tells you what to look out for, and how to help a dog with arthritis to have the best life in his later years.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a medical condition that affects joints. It occurs over time as the cartilage between the joints becomes thinner and damaged. This results in bones rubbing together leading to stiffness, swelling and pain.

What causes arthritis in dogs?

Although one of the main causes of canine arthritis is simply old age, there are other reasons a dog may develop the condition.

  • Injury can be sustained at any age and where a dog suffers torn ligaments or has a wound that becomes infected, damage can occur within the joints causing inflammation and arthritis.
  • Being overweight can also trigger arthritis as excess weight places stress on the joints to carry the extra load which increases the natural wear and tear on the joints.
  • Some breeds of dog may be more prone to arthritis than others where they are predisposed to bone conditions such as hip dysplasia. Breeds include Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Springer Spaniels and German Shepherds. For these breeds, there are screening schemes available.

Signs of arthritis in dogs

There are several signs to look out for if you think your dog may be suffering with arthritis, both physical and behavioural.

Physical signs of arthritis in dogs

  • Stiffness
  • Limping
  • Becoming slower or reluctant on walks
  • Difficulty getting up after sitting or lying down
  • Finding stairs more difficult

Behavioural signs of arthritis in dogs

  • Licking painful joints (look for stained fur around joint areas)
  • Irritability – arthritic dogs may dislike being touched which can lead to them being grumpy
  • Being less playful
  • Preferring to be by themselves

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, a trip to the vet is needed for a correct diagnosis and treatment. However, there are steps you can take to help make life easier for your dog.

How to ease arthritis in dogs

  • A firm, new bed that will support painful joints will help, and consider positioning several around the home to give your dog plenty of choice as well as the opportunity to rest wherever they are.
  • Elevating food and water bowls will stop your dog lowering their head which pulls on joints and there are lots of suitable stands available.
  • Take shorter walks – three or four shorter walks a day will be kinder on painful joints than two long walks – and think about the ground you are walking on. Concrete and tarmac might be too hard and your dog will prefer softer grassy paths.
  • Avoid muddy ground too as this may lead to dogs slipping, and try to pick flat, level routes.
  • Ensuring your flooring at home is not slippery is very important too; sliding and slipping is not good for arthritic joints, so ensure nails are kept trimmed.

Non-slip flooring for dogs

Carpet is undoubtedly soft and warm but it isn’t practical, particularly for younger pups and older dogs who are prone to accidents. The alternatives of wood, ceramic or laminate flooring may be more durable for humans but is far too slippery and dogs falling on it are in for a hard landing. At Floors for Paws, our Pawsafe Domestic range offers the best of both worlds! Easy to clean, water- and scratch-resistant, the range has been endorsed by CAM, Canine Arthritis Management. Its unique comfort backing gives cushioning for painful joints, and dogs will find it comfortable to lie on as it is not cold to the touch.

Offering a wide choice of contemporary and classic designs, the Pawsafe Domestic range is suitable for all styles of home and if you can’t decide, why not order three free samples. Our experience and friendly team is available to help answer any questions and can be contacted by phone on 01937 830948 or email at info@floorsforpaws.com