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.

Questions to ask about vinyl flooring

Customers always have lots of questions – these are the ones we are asked the most at Floors For Paws.

When making the decision to invest in new vinyl flooring for your home or business premises, it is only natural to ask lots of questions before making such a considered purchase. Here, we have put together some of the most frequently asked questions to help you.

What is vinyl flooring?

Vinyl flooring is a synthetic flooring solution made up of several layers with the uppermost surface giving the flooring its final look. Vinyl flooring can be manufactured to resemble natural stone, real wood and ceramic tiles. It can have a textured surface, and is often backed with plastic or felt.

How do you buy vinyl flooring?

Vinyl flooring can be bought by length (usually in metres) off the roll, exactly like carpet. Alternatively, it can be supplied as tiles or planks which can be pieced together to create patterns, some of which can replicate the traditional patterns found in solid wood flooring.

How to lay vinyl flooring

This is not something we would recommend, especially for the novice DIY-er to attempt, as vinyl flooring requires experienced fitters. At Floor For Paws, we work with a network or professional fitters who can install your new floor for you. When you have a Floors For Paws vinyl floor installed by one of our approved contractors, we offer a 30-year domestic guarantee or a 10-year commercial guarantee. However, for those who would like to lay their flooring themselves, it is important to know how to prepare your sub-floor correctly.

What to put under vinyl flooring

Sheet vinyl and vinyl flooring that is installed using the glue down method, require no underlay, as the flooring is bonded directly onto the sub-floor. However, in these cases it is imperative that the sub-floor is correctly prepared with flooring grade plywood or smoothing compound.

Is vinyl flooring waterproof?

Vinyl flooring is waterproof. However, where vinyl flooring is installed as planks or tiles with numerous joins, it may be less waterproof than vinyl sheet flooring, if it has not been installed by a qualified contractor. Our guide to the best waterproof flooring for pets examines the difference between waterproof and water resistance. 

How to clean vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring is relatively low maintenance, requiring little more than regular sweeping and mopping, although all spillages should be dealt with immediately. For areas of heavy traffic, a deeper clean can be carried out to maintain the appearance of the vinyl and to prevent it from becoming dull and tired.

What’s the difference between vinyl flooring and luxury vinyl flooring?

Vinyl flooring is supplied by length in rolls and can be laid with the minimum of seams or joins, depending on the area to be covered. Available in a choice of colours, patterns and designs, vinyl flooring should be professionally installed. Any repairs that become necessary might lead to the whole floor being replaced.

Luxury vinyl flooring, often referred to as LVT (luxury vinyl tiles) is available in tile or plank shapes, allowing the creation of different patterns and designs. LVT flooring is often finished in a choice of hardwood-, stone-, or ceramic-effects. Repairs can be carried out by simply replacing the affected sections.

Is vinyl flooring pet friendly?

Vinyl flooring from Floor For Paws is extremely pet-friendly and all our ranges have been endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management). Non-slip, and therefore kinder on older joints and young, under-developed bones, our vinyl flooring features a soft upper layer that is more comfortable for our four legged friends to lie on.

Vinyl flooring from Floors For Paws

At Floors For Paws, we offer three ranges of vinyl flooring. Our luxury vinyl range is available as planks or tiles and is perfect for anywhere in the home, our Pawsafe Domestic range is ideal for creating the look of a traditional herringbone solid wood floor in any room, and our Pawsafe Commercial range, available as vinyl sheeting is hardwearing enough for high traffic commercial premises such as veterinary clinics and doggy day care.

If you have any other questions not covered here, our friendly sales team is waiting to help. Simply call us on 01522 300218 or email us at info@floorsforpaws.com

The best and worst flooring for dogs

Man’s best friend deserves the best flooring so here’s our look at the best and the worst on the market.

We have previously discussed the difference between pet-proof and pet-friendly flooring and in this article, we look at the difference between the best and worst flooring for dogs, and the best and worst flooring for dog owners, as well as looking at the different needs of individual dogs at the various stages of their lives.

When we hear flooring companies talk about the best flooring for dogs, they often mean that the flooring will be easy to clean and maintain, or that it will be tough and hardwearing. But is that the best flooring for dogs, or for dog owners and is there a solution to keep everyone happy? Let’s look at each common flooring type in turn.

Laminate and solid wood flooring

For older incontinent dogs and puppies still being trained, both laminate and wood floors are not the best flooring for dogs that pee or for their owners! Excessive liquid will be soaked up by each, causing discolouration in wooden floors and buckling in laminate floors. When we consider canine mobility too, both of these floor types can present problems for our four legged friend. Young dogs who are developing muscle and strength in their legs will slip and slide which can cause injury, while older, perhaps arthritic dogs could fall causing serious joint damage. While relatively easy to keep clean for owners, neither of these floors and particularly comfortable for dogs of any age to lie down on.

Ceramic tiles

Arguably a great flooring for pet owners, ceramic tiles offer a gorgeous aesthetic, are almost completely waterproof and are easy to clean and maintain. But they are far too cold for our furry friends, extremely hard and uncomfortable, and they pose a major slip threat.

Carpet

The opposite to ceramic tiles, carpet is warm and comfortable for dogs but represents a nightmare for pet owners! A sponge for any liquids, carpet will retain odours and the pile will wear quickly where pets are lying down on it.

So is there a flooring that offers everything our dogs need, while ticking all our boxes too?

The Pawsafe Domestic range from Floor for Paws

The Pawsafe Domestic range is vinyl flooring available in a choice of plank sizes. Offering the aesthetic demanded by pet owners, it is easy to clean, waterproof, strong, durable and scratch resistant. And for our pets, the range has been endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management). Designed with the comfort of our dogs in mind, this is non-slip flooring with an extra soft layer of protection for pets, and it has a textured surface to enable animals to move on it safely.

But don’t take our word for it, why not try before you buy? Order up to three free samples to see for yourself, or more for an extra charge. Then if you have any questions, simply get in touch with our experienced sales team by telephone on 01937 830948 or email at info@floorsforpaws.com to discuss how we can help you.

A complete guide to the best waterproof flooring for pets

We look at flooring options for pet owners and examine the best waterproof flooring on the market.

When you’re a pet owner, whether you have a puppy still toilet training or an older dog with age related incontinence, liquid accidents are an inevitable part of life. Add in to the mix muddy post-walk paws or bath time and it’s easy to see why waterproof flooring for pets is essential.

Before we look at the options available to pet owners, let’s examine the different factors to consider before choosing your flooring.

Waterproof Vs. water resistant

People use these phrases interchangeably but they are in fact two different things. Water-resistant flooring will resist certain small spillages but waterproof flooring is designed to withstand spillages and bigger events such as full spilt dog bowls and lakes of dog wee!

Where the flooring will be installed

The setting for your flooring will impact your choice. For example the best living room flooring for dogs may not be the best flooring for a dog grooming salon or a veterinarian surgery. Consider whether your flooring will be subject to constant mopping in a commercial environment (think doggy daycare or pet-friendly cafes) or lighter daily maintenance in your kitchen.

Now you’ve considered what you need and where it will be, let’s look at your flooring options.

Ceramic or porcelain tiles

While ceramic and porcelain tiles are recognised for being almost impenetrable to liquids, they are one of the least pet friendly flooring options. Cold and hard and extremely slippery underfoot, this type of flooring can make old and young dogs feel unstable and affect their confidence. To find out more about the risks to dogs of slippery flooring see our article Non-slip flooring for dogs.

Laminate flooring

Laminate flooring is constructed from softwood fibres so while it will withstand light spillages, making it water resistant, it will not tolerate anything more without running the risk of buckling and becoming damaged. While it is easy to clean, laminate is not waterproof and can be prone to moisture entering the joints between the boards.

Solid wood flooring

While they offer a traditional aesthetic for your home, solid wood floors soak up liquid causing them to stain quite easily. A lighter wood could therefore end up with dark patches if you have a dog that has frequent accidents.

Carpet

Undoubtedly warm and comfortable for our canine friends, in terms of its ability to withstand liquids and moisture, carpet is a poor choice if you’re looking for a waterproof floor covering for pets. Carpet is porous, turning it into a sponge for any liquid spillages and the fibres will retain smells which will not go unnoticed by visitors for long!

Vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring, including luxury vinyl tiles, vinyl plank flooring and vinyl on the roll, is completely waterproof. It is offered in a range of finishes to suit every taste and setting and is resilient and hardwearing. Finally, with the exception of carpet, vinyl flooring is the kindest option for pets as it is more comfortable underfoot than tiles, laminate or solid wood.

Vinyl flooring from Floor For Paws

At Floors For Paws we offer a choice of waterproof vinyl flooring for every home and commercial premises.

Luxury Vinyl Range

Our Luxury Vinyl Range is available as luxury vinyl planks which offer the look of a wooden floor, or as luxury vinyl tiles that mimic stone tiles. Hardwearing and durable, LVP (luxury vinyl plank) is ideal for anyone looking for a stylish flooring option. To see the options available , or to order your 3 free samples, click here.

Pawsafe Domestic Range

Endorsed and approved by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), our Pawsafe Domestic Range is available in a choice of plank sizes to offer more design options and a popular design is the herringbone pattern which can be installed in a variety of ways to mimic a traditional solid wood floor. This is an ideal flooring for domestic settings and commercial premises thanks to its strength and durability, and comes with a 10-year commercial guarantee. Your three free samples can be chosen here.

Pawsafe Commercial range

Sold as commercial sheet vinyl on the roll, the Pawsafe Commercial Range is perfect for businesses as it can be laid with no, or very few, joins creating a waterproof surface that is impenetrable to liquids. Endorsed and approved by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), the Pawsafe Commercial Range is recommended for commercial environments that welcome a lot of four legged paw traffic, such as veterinarian clinics, day care centres and pet-friendly cafes and restaurants. Use our sample picker to choose up to three free samples and see our Guide to sheet vinyl flooring.

If you would like to discuss any aspect of our waterproof flooring for dogs, send us an email to info@floosforpaws.com or call us on 01937 830948.

How to clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners

Luxury vinyl flooring is a popular option for homes but how should you clean it and what should you avoid? Our helpful guide will help you keep your vinyl flooring looking beautiful.

Regular maintenance of luxury vinyl flooring

All vinyl flooring requires regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking its best. If the flooring is not well cared for, it will look dull and tired. The following tips are recommended:

  • Vacuum or sweep vinyl flooring regularly, and always before mopping.
  • Deal with spillages and stains straightaway. Wipe up any spills as soon as they occur and deal with stains with a damp mop; stubborn stains can be tackled with a paste of baking soda mixed with water. Gently rub the paste into the stain until it disappears and rinse away the paste residue thoroughly.
  • Mop regularly with a damp mop and plain water.

Deep cleaning vinyl flooring

How often you deep clean your vinyl flooring will depend on foot and paw traffic! After vacuuming or sweeping the floor as usual, check for scuff marks – these can usually be buffed out with a damp microfibre cloth. For hard to reach places (along skirting boards for example) use a soft damp brush, a baby’s toothbrush is fine, and baking powder paste. Remember to remove any remaining paste.  Mop the floor with a microfibre mop and a solution of white vinegar (one cup of white vinegar in one gallon of warm water). If you like suds, or if the flooring is particularly grubby, add a couple of drops of washing up liquid to the solution. Your mop should be damp, not dripping wet, and you should replace dirty water with a fresh solution as often as necessary. Always rinse the floor well after cleaning, with plain water and a mop, and always dry the floor thoroughly to reduce the risk of moisture penetrating any seams in the vinyl.

Dos and don’ts for maintaining your vinyl flooring

Do:

  • Use a vinyl backed doormat at entrances to reduce the amount of dirt and debris being brought onto the flooring from outside. Rubber backed mats are not recommended as they can cause a reaction with the vinyl that may leave marks.
  • Use vinyl coasters/floor protectors under furniture legs to prevent damage such as scratches or dents.
  • Lift furniture when moving it.
  • Keep pets’ claws well-trimmed.
  • Wipe pet paws thoroughly after walks.

Don’t:

  • Use floor polish on vinyl flooring – it will damage the floor.
  • Use abrasive cleaners or stiff brushes – they can remove the shine and damage the surface of the vinyl.
  • Leave freshly cleaned floors wet.
  • Use a steam cleaner on vinyl flooring – the heat and moisture will cause damage and may invalidate your warranty.
  • Drag heavy furniture across vinyl flooring – it will cause scrapes and tears.
  • Wear high heels, particularly heels that come to a point like stilettos.

Once luxury vinyl flooring becomes damaged, it has to be replaced so following these simple steps will keep your flooring in tip top condition for as long as possible.

Our range of luxury vinyl flooring is available in wood effect vinyl floor planks and in stone effect luxury vinyl tiles so why not order some free samples today and see which you prefer? For any questions on how to clean vinyl flooring, our experienced sales team is available to help on 01937 830948 or by email at info@floorsforpaws.com

Herringbone flooring

Herringbone LVP flooring is a luxury vinyl plank option that features a unique, interlocking pattern of rectangular tiles arranged in a zig-zag or “herringbone” formation. This pattern is often associated with high-end, traditional design aesthetics and is popular in commercial and residential spaces. The LVT material is durable, water-resistant, and easy to maintain, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Additionally, LVT flooring is often more budget-friendly than traditional hardwood or tile options, making it a cost-effective choice for those looking to achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank.

Floors for Paws Glue down Herringbone luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is a type of flooring that is installed by applying adhesive to the subfloor and then pressing the planks into the adhesive. This method of installation is typically used in commercial and high-traffic residential spaces, as it provides a more secure and stable hold on the floor.

One of the benefits of glue-down LVP flooring is that it is less likely to shift or move over time, as the adhesive creates a strong bond between the planks and the subfloor. This can be especially important in areas that are prone to moisture or temperature changes, as the adhesive can help to prevent warping or buckling of the planks.

Another benefit of glue-down LVP flooring is that it needs a latex smoothing compound prior to installation that will smooth an uneven subfloor.  The adhesive acts as a moisture barrier between the planks and the sub-floor making it completely waterproof. This can be especially useful when you have dogs who may splash water from there bowls, bring in water from outside or leave piddle on the floor!

However, installation of glue-down LVP is a bit more complex than other installation options such as click-and-lock, and it requires more time and skill. However once the planks are glued down, an individual plank can be heated and removed if damaged unlike click flooring in which the whole floor needs to be removed. 

Overall, glue-down LVP flooring is a durable and stable option that is well-suited for commercial and high-traffic residential spaces, but the installation process is more complex and the planks cannot be easily removed or replaced.

 

Order your 3 free samples today https://www.floorsforpaws.com/pawsafe-domestic-range/

What is Luxury Vinyl plank flooring?

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a popular flooring option for homeowners looking for a durable and stylish alternative to traditional hardwood or tile. This type of flooring is made from a combination of natural materials and synthetic polymers, resulting in a product that mimics the look of hardwood or stone while providing added durability and resistance to moisture and wear.

One of the main benefits of LVP is its ability to mimic the look of natural wood or stone. This is achieved through high-resolution printing and texturing techniques that make the flooring look virtually identical to the real thing. This means that homeowners can enjoy the beauty and elegance of natural wood or stone without the high cost and maintenance that comes with those materials.

Another advantage of LVP is its durability. Because it is made from a combination of natural materials and synthetic polymers, it is able to withstand heavy foot traffic and resist scratches, dents, and stains. This makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, and entryways. Additionally, LVP is moisture resistant, making it a great option for bathrooms, basements and other damp spaces.

LVP is also relatively easy to install. It comes in planks or tiles that can be floated over an existing subfloor, making it a great option for DIY projects. Additionally, LVP is easy to cut and shape, allowing for a variety of design options and flexibility.

Another great feature of LVP is its ease of maintenance. Unlike traditional hardwood, LVP can be easily cleaned with a damp mop or cloth. It does not require any special cleaning products or regular waxing or staining. This makes it a great option for busy homeowners who want a beautiful and low-maintenance flooring option especially for dog friendly and pet friendly homes. 

In terms of cost, LVP is a budget-friendly option. It is generally less expensive than traditional hardwood or stone, and it is also more durable and requires less maintenance. This makes it an excellent value for homeowners looking to upgrade their flooring.

Overall, luxury vinyl plank is a versatile and durable flooring option that provides the beauty of natural wood or stone without the high cost and maintenance. Its high-resolution printing and texturing techniques make it virtually indistinguishable from the real thing, and its moisture resistance and durability make it a great choice for high-traffic areas and damp spaces. Additionally, its easy installation and low-maintenance make it an attractive option for homeowners who want a beautiful and functional flooring solution.

Order your 3 free samples today https://www.floorsforpaws.com/luxury-vinyl-range/

Preparing your sub-floor for luxury vinyl plank flooring

When preparing your subfloor for luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, it is important to ensure that the surface is level, clean, and free of any debris or obstacles.

Here are some steps you can take to prepare your subfloor for LVP, if your subfloor is concrete:

1. Remove any existing flooring: This includes carpeting, tile, or hardwood. Be sure toremove any nails, staples, or adhesive residue left behind.

2. Inspect the subfloor: Look for any cracks, holes, or uneven areas that need to be repaired. If the subfloor is made of concrete, check for moisture issues by using a
moisture meter.

3. If the moisture reader shows a relative humidity (RH) of over 75% the use of a damp proof membrane is necessary (unless you wish to wait to install your floor until the
concrete is completely dry.

4. A damp proof membrane (DPM) is a layer of material that is installed between the subfloor and the final flooring to prevent moisture from penetrating the surface of the
flooring. It is relatively easy to install and can help to extend the lifespan of your flooring.Remember to also check if the manufacturer of the LVP you choose specifies any other requirement for installing the flooring, such as a vapor barrier.

5. Clean the subfloor: This is important to ensure that there is no dust or debris that can interfere with the application of the latex smoothing compound. Use a broom or vacuum to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.

6. Repair any damage. Use repair mortar or a crack repair kit to repair any uneven areas or cracks in the subfloor.

7. Before installing the LVP, it’s important to make sure that the subfloor is level and dry. Use a self-levelling smoothing compound to smooth them out. 2-3mm of smoothing compound will dry to walk on within 2 hours however will need at least 24 hours to dry sufficiently for the LVP to be adhered to it. With most levelling compounds you need to apply a primer to the subfloor before putting the levelling compound down.

8. Test the subfloor: Before installing the LVP, it’s important to make sure that the subfloor is level and dry. Use a self-levelling compound to smooth them out. 2-3mm of latex will dry to walk on within 2 hours however will need at least 24 hours to dry sufficiently for the LVP to be adhered to it.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your subfloor is properly prepared for the installation of LVP flooring. This will help to ensure that the flooring is installed correctly and will last for many years to come.

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.