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

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 difference between lino and vinyl

People often call vinyl flooring lino by mistake, thinking they are the same thing. Here, Floors for Paws looks at the differences between these two popular flooring solutions.

 

What is lino?

Lino, or linoleum to give it its correct name, is a type of flooring that was particularly popular in the first half of the 20th century. Invented by Frederick Walton in the mid-1800s, lino is a mixture of linseed oil (hence the name linoleum) with natural materials such as cork dust or wood pulp, and pigments. In terms of maintenance, a lino floor needs to be recoated and waxed every year.

Vinyl flooring

In contrast to lino, vinyl flooring is made from a completely synthetic, manmade material, called PVC (polyvinyl chloride plastic). Vinyl flooring consists of multiple layers that are heated and pressed together. The surface layer gives the flooring its final appearance and is coated for resistance to scratches, liquids and stains.

How to buy vinyl flooring

Where linoleum can only be bought on the roll (like rolls of carpet), vinyl flooring is available on the roll as well as luxury vinyl tiles or luxury vinyl planks. This gives users the opportunity to create patterns in their flooring such as the traditional herringbone pattern of parquet floors.

At Floors for Paws, our ethos has always been to put the welfare of dogs on an equal basis to that of their owners. To this end, we have worked extensively with Canine Arthritis Management to develop a range of flooring that is the best flooring for dogs. So how does lino measure up to vinyl flooring when it comes to our pets? Let’s take a look at the features of the best flooring for dogs which include slip resistance, comfort, water resistance, and low maintenance in order to keep dogs and their owners happy.

Comfort

The multi-layer composition of vinyl flooring allows for a soft, comfort layer to offer cushioning to older dogs. As linoleum is a single layer construction, this is lacking and may be hard for dogs with joint conditions to lie down on for extended periods.

Slip resistance

Linoleum is extremely slippery and requires an application of a water based sealant or modified resin solution. However it can take up four applications before some slip resistance is achieved. Floors for Paws’ Pawsafe Domestic range and Luxury Vinyl range on the other hand,  have the highest slip rating of any vinyl plank flooring currently on the market

Water resistance

With dogs at either end of the age spectrum being prone to accidents (either from not yet being house-trained or from suffering from age-related incontinence) water resistance is important for dog owners. Linoleum requires regular sealing in order for it to be water resistant and even then, it isn’t recommended for any areas that are prone to moisture and humidity. Vinyl flooring however, when professionally installed is completely waterproof.

Maintenance

Both linoleum and vinyl are fairly easy to clean but keeping pet-friendly flooring clean is easier with vinyl flooring. It requires the minimum of ongoing maintenance beyond regular sweeping and mopping with plain warm water. Linoleum on the other hand does not stand up well to being mopped and does need to be sealed once or twice a year.

Comparisons between vinyl flooring and linoleum

Aesthetics – The options available or vinyl flooring are extensive. As the final aesthetic of LVT flooring and luxury vinyl planks depends on the pattern printed onto their surface layer, colours and patterns available are extensive and wood-, stone-effect finishes are also possible. Linoleum undergoes a different process, with the pigment added to the natural materials in the flooring. This limits the choice of pattern available.

Durability – as lino is a softer material than vinyl, it is more susceptible to scratches and damage. Its single layer composition means that regular sealing is required to counteract this, where vinyl flooring has an integral scratch resistant layer.

Installation – both require experienced installers if they are to give a maximum lifespan and durability. While vinyl is much beloved by the enthusiastic DIY-er, at Floors for Paws we are able to offer a prolonged guarantee against damage or failure of the flooring if it has been professionally installed.

Sustainability – as a product made using only natural materials, lino is completely organic and therefore sustainable, whereas vinyl flooring has, over the years, received a fair amount of bad press due to the nature of its manufacture and the lack of opportunity for recycling. At Floors for Paws, we use efficient manufacturing processes and our ranges are chemical free with a low VOC count. Floors for Paws is both FloorScore® and DIBt certified for superior indoor air quality, and our products are manufactured to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards. We use only recyclable plastic and only recommend a solvent-free adhesive.

While linoleum can be described as the precursor to vinyl, it’s fair to say that the invention of vinyl flooring definitely sounded the death knell for lino. It is however, experiencing a small comeback but for dog owners, we believe that vinyl flooring is the best flooring for dogs. If you would like to discuss any of our vinyl flooring ranges, please send us an email to 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 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.

LVT Vs. click flooring

LVT vs Click

At Floors for Paws, we supply and fit luxury vinyl flooring which we know is the best flooring for dogs.

 

LVT flooring can be installed in two ways – glue-down or click. At Floors for Paws, our product ranges are glue down but here we look at the alternative, click vinyl flooring, to see how it compares.

What is vinyl click flooring?

As its name suggests, vinyl click flooring is made up of interlocking tiles that ‘click’ together thanks to a tongue and groove style system where the edge of one tile will lock into the next. Also known as floating vinyl flooring, click flooring is not permanently fixed to the floor but rather sits or ‘floats’ on top of it.

The disadvantages of vinyl click flooring

  • Many people think that because click flooring requires only underlay and no preparation of your sub-floor, that it is preferable to glue-down. However if your subfloor is not up to standard, it will need some work before an underlay product can be fitted. With glue-down LVT, there is no need for underlay and preparing your sub-floor for luxury vinyl plank flooring is straightforward.
  • Where noise and sound levels are important, click vinyl is not ideal – the adhesive bond in glue-down LVT provides increased stability and noise reduction.
  • Glue-down LVT is completely waterproof and ideal for any room in the home. Click vinyl, however features joints that can be easily penetrated by high levels of moisture, resulting in warping and damage. Additionally where water and other liquids like dog pee are able to penetrate the joins, this can lead to the integrity of the flooring being compromised, and smells.
  • When exposed to fluctuating temperature conditions, click flooring will have movement. The tiles or planks will expand and contract with the heat which will lead to the floor rising over time. It will also need expansion gaps around the perimeter to help with this which add to its overall lack of water resistance and require beading trim or skirting boards.

The benefits of LVT flooring from Floors For Paws

Working closely with CAM, our priority at Floors For Paws has always been to deliver the best flooring for dogs and their owners.

Our flooring has the highest slip rating of any vinyl currently on the market, making it super safe for young, gangly puppies and older, unsteady dogs.

A soft, comfort cushion layer makes it comfortable underfoot for pet owners and offers a kinder cushioning for pets to lie down on.

When professionally installed LVT flooring is completely waterproof and comes with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

Our Pawsafe Domestic range comes in a choice of 12 realistic, wood-effect vinyl planks, allowing home owners to create the look of traditional solid wood flooring. Of course, this kind of choice can be overwhelming, so let us send you up to three free samples (or more for a small charge) to help you decide.

If you are still undecided, consider the options carefully, but before making your final choice, read what one of our trusted installation experts has to say. If you have any further questions after that, we’re here to help. Contact us at info@floorsforpaws.com or on 01522 300218.

What is LVT flooring?

dogs on luxury vinyl flooring

LVT flooring is a hardwearing, low maintenance flooring and here, we discuss why we believe LVT flooring is the best flooring for dogs.

What is LVT flooring?

Short for Luxury Vinyl Tiles, LVT flooring is a luxury vinyl flooring product manufactured from several layers of PVC that are bonded together. At Floors for Paws, our LVT flooring is available in a choice of realistic looking natural wood- or stone-effect finishes.

Is LVT better than laminate?

Laminate flooring is supplied in plank form with the planks comprising layers of pressed wood pulp with a plastic top layer. As LVT is made from a plastic composite, it is a much more flexible flooring option with a softer surface. LVT is also much more durable than laminate and, because of this, manufacturers are able to offer longer guarantees. At Floors for Paws, when our LVT is fitted by one of our approved suppliers, it comes with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

What is the lifespan of LVT flooring?

At Floors for Paws, our LVT range has an expected lifespan of 30 years (hence the guarantee we are able to offer). Its multi-layer construction with surface ‘wear’ layer means our luxury vinyl range will stand the test of time and of course knowing how to clean vinyl floors correctly will also help to prolong its lifespan.

What rooms is LVT flooring suitable for?

Its excellent durability coupled with stylish and stunning good looks, makes LVT flooring suitable for any room in your home. As it is completely waterproof (read Best waterproof flooring for pets), it is particularly suitable for bathrooms and kitchens and it will also withstand heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for hallways and entrance halls. For living or dining rooms where a traditional herringbone effect is preferred, wood-effect luxury vinyl planks are perfect.

The benefits of LVT flooring to pet owners

In addition to its durability, water resistance and low maintenance, LVT flooring really is the best flooring for dogs. Offering the good looks of a real wood or stone floor, luxury vinyl flooring has none of the disadvantages. It has a non-slip, textured surface layer to help young and old dogs alike to maintain their balance plus an additional comfort layer and a fleece backing. Designed especially with your pets in mind, the range has been endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management).

LVT flooring from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, our luxury vinyl range is offered in a choice of 8 wood-effect vinyl planks, ideal for creating a traditional herringbone design, and 6 stone-effect tiles ideal for replicating a ceramic floor. We understand the choice can be overwhelming, so why not choose up to three free samples (or more for a small charge) to help you decide?

Once you’ve received your samples, ordering couldn’t be easier! Simply follow the four easy steps in How to order and we’ll do the rest. For any other questions, our friendly team can be contacted by email at info@floorsforpaws.com or over the phone on 01522 300218.

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

A comprehensive guide to commercial vinyl flooring

commercial vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring is an increasingly popular choice for commercial premises. In our latest guide we look at what commercial vinyl flooring can offer your business.

 

Found in a wide variety of situations, from hotel lobbies and shop entrances, to veterinary practices and canine cafes, commercial flooring is available in many varieties. Here at Floors For Paws, we specialise in commercial vinyl flooring, but what exactly is it and what benefits can it offer your business?

What is commercial vinyl flooring?

Commercial (or safety) vinyl flooring is manufactured specifically to provide a watertight flooring solution in commercial and/or public areas, with excellent slip ratings to create a safe environment with reduced risks of tripping or falling.

Slip rating of commercial flooring

The slip resistance of a floor is, in its simplest form, a measure of how slippery that floor is, and is calculated using the PTV system. Generally speaking, the higher the slip resistance, the less slippery a floor is. At Floors For Paws, our commercial vinyl flooring has a slip rating of 96, the highest score for commercial vinyl currently on the market.

The benefits of commercial vinyl flooring

Commercial vinyl flooring is durable – our Pawsafe Commercial range is an heterogenous flooring which means it consists of several layers of material including an insulated backing layer, a cushion comfort layer and an anti-slip wear layer that are heat-fused together for maximum strength and durability. It is finished with a generous layer of PUR coating where a layer of polyurethane is applied and cured beneath UV lights to give long lasting protection.

Commercial vinyl flooring is watertight – our commercial vinyl is supplied as sheet vinyl on a roll. This results is fewer joins or seams being needed during installation, which results in a completely impenetrable, watertight surface.

No underlay required – the Pawsafe Commercial range is designed to be installed without the need for an underlay. It can be glued directly to your subfloor, but preparing your subfloor for vinyl flooring must be carried out carefully and thoroughly. Once your subfloor has been prepared, we would always recommend using an approved installer. Where one of our installation partners are used, we are able to offer a 10-year commercial guarantee.

Slip resistant – our vinyl flooring offers the highest slip resistance of any currently available in the market, making it the safest flooring solution for your staff and visitors.

Low maintenance – vinyl sheet flooring requires very little attention to maintain its appearance and it is easy to keep clean in a commercial setting. How to clean sheet vinyl floors shows you how to maintain your flooring.

Commercial non slip flooring from Floor 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 is particularly suitable for anywhere that welcomes our four-legged friends. Whether you are looking for the best flooring for dog daycare or veterinary flooring, 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 business. But don’t take us at our word! Why not 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.