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

best flooring veterinary

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

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

Sealed concrete

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

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

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT)

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

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

Commercial vinyl flooring – practical and hygienic

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

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

Flooring for a fear free veterinary practice

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

Best flooring for veterinary clinics from Floors for Paws

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

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

Is vinyl flooring good for commercial use?

Is vinyl flooring a good fit for all commercial spaces? In our latest blog post, we dive into the benefits of vinyl flooring for commercial use.

When choosing flooring for a commercial space, business owners must consider durability, maintenance, aesthetics, and cost. Vinyl flooring has become a popular choice in many commercial settings due to its versatility, affordability, and practicality, but for businesses that welcome 4-legged clients and customers, their vinyl flooring need to be dog friendly too. At Floors for Paws, our Pawsafe Commercial range ticks all the boxes.

Durability and resilience

One of the primary reasons vinyl flooring is widely used in commercial spaces is its durability. Vinyl flooring, especially luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and vinyl plank flooring, is designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for busy areas like offices, retail stores, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. The Pawsafe Commercial range is supplied on the roll so that fewer seams and joins are required, making it ideal for any location with heavy foot traffic requiring regular deep cleaning.

Our commercial vinyl flooring has a protective coating that guards against dog claw scratches, dents, and stains, helping the floor to maintain its appearance after years of use.

Low maintenance

Maintaining vinyl flooring is relatively simple, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. Daily cleaning typically involves sweeping or vacuuming to remove dust and debris, while occasional mopping with mild cleaning solutions keeps it looking fresh. Unlike hardwood or natural stone flooring, vinyl doesn’t require refinishing, resealing, or frequent polishing, reducing maintenance costs. Our blog will tell you how to clean sheet vinyl floors, as well as how to keep pet-friendly flooring clean.

In commercial settings where time is money, the ease of maintaining vinyl floors can be a significant advantage. Businesses can maintain a professional and polished appearance without spending much time or many resources on upkeep. In environments where hygiene and cleanliness are important – such as veterinary surgeries and dog day care centres – being able to deep clean your flooring regularly, is crucial.

Water and stain resistance

Another major advantage of vinyl flooring is its water resistance. Vinyl is non-porous, meaning it repels moisture, which makes it an excellent choice for areas that are prone to spills or high humidity, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and medical facilities. Unlike hardwood, which can warp or swell when exposed to moisture, vinyl remains unaffected, making it particularly suitable for commercial spaces where liquid spills are frequent.

In addition to being water-resistant, Pawsafe Commercial vinyl flooring is also highly resistant to dog pee. This makes it an excellent option for environments like pet grooming parlours and canine cafes, where dog pee accidents are as common as food and drink spillages.

Cost-effectiveness

Commercial spaces often require large areas of flooring, and roll vinyl can be a cost-effective solution compared to other materials like hardwood, ceramic tile, or natural stone. Vinyl flooring is affordable to purchase, and, since it requires minimal maintenance and has a long lifespan, businesses can save on long-term upkeep costs, making it a wise investment for commercial use.

Design versatility

Vinyl flooring has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly with the introduction of luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and vinyl plank flooring. At Floors for Paws, our Luxury Vinyl range and our Pawsafe Domestic range are both available in a choice of stone- or wood-effect finishes, and are offered in a wide selection of colours. This design flexibility allows businesses to create stylish interiors both modern and traditional.

Commercial vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws

If you are looking for a safe and comfortable flooring solution for pets and their owners, our Pawsafe Commercial vinyl flooring is perfect. With a textured, anti-slip wear layer, cushion comfort layer plus high density backing, this commercial non slip flooring is offered with a 10-year commercial guarantee. Choose up to three free samples to see for yourself, or call our friendly sales team on 01522 300218 to discuss your commercial requirements today.

Things to consider when buying vinyl flooring

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

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

Non slip flooring for dogs

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

Dog pee proof flooring

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

Low maintenance flooring

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

Durable flooring

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

Good looking flooring

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

How vinyl flooring from Floor for Paws ticks all the boxes

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

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

Sheet vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws

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

Vinyl tiles vs. sheet vinyl: a comprehensive comparison

Our latest guide to sheet vinyl flooring and luxury vinyl tiles and how they compare to each other.

When it comes to choosing flooring options, vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl are two popular contenders that often spark debate among homeowners and designers alike. Both materials offer a range of benefits, but they cater to different needs and aesthetics. In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences, advantages, and disadvantages of vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl to help you make an informed decision for your space.

Vinyl Flooring Options

Vinyl flooring is available to buy on the roll (vinyl sheet flooring) and as luxury vinyl tiles and planks.

Luxury vinyl tiles and vinyl planks – these are individual squares or planks of vinyl flooring. They are available in various sizes and designs, to produce a realistic wood- or stone-effect finish.

Vinyl roll flooring, on the other hand, is a large roll of vinyl that can cover an entire room without seams, providing a continuous surface. It’s available in numerous colours, and a choice of patterns, making it a versatile option.

Installation of LVT

Installation of vinyl tiles can be straightforward, especially with self-adhesive options. While homeowners with some DIY skills could lay them down themselves, it is vital to ensure a perfectly even surface with a perfectly prepared subfloor (see Preparing your sub-floor for luxury vinyl plank flooring), as imperfections can lead to a less attractive final product. At Floors for Paws, we have a network of reputable installation engineers that we always recommend, to give you the optimum finish for your new floor.

Installation of sheet vinyl flooring

Sheet vinyl benefits from professional installation, as the large roll must be cut to size, which can be challenging without professional tools. Moreover, it’s crucial to get the measurements just right to avoid seams that could lead to water infiltration. The cost of a professional installer can be offset by the benefits of a smoother and more visually appealing finish.

Aesthetics

Vinyl tiles – vinyl tiles offer significant versatility in design. With a wide array of patterns, colours, they mimic natural materials like hardwood, stone, or ceramic. This allows homeowners to create unique looks tailored to their personal style. Moreover, the ability to mix and match tiles can lead to creative designs, like borders or patterns such as herringbone.

Sheet Vinyl – while sheet vinyl also comes in various styles, it does not offer the same level of customisation as tiles. However, it does excel in creating seamless designs that can give the appearance of a larger, uninterrupted floor. This can be particularly beneficial in smaller spaces where visual continuity helps make the area feel larger, or in areas that will be subject to frequent and vigorous cleaning.

Durability and maintenance

Vinyl tiles – vinyl tiles are durable and resistant to scratches and stains. However, the seams between tiles can trap dirt and moisture if not properly maintained. Regular sweeping and mopping with a damp cloth are usually sufficient to keep them clean. They also have the added advantage of being easily replaceable; if a tile becomes damaged, it can be removed and replaced without affecting the surrounding floor. For detailed advice om maintaining your LVT flooring, see How to clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners.

Sheet vinyl – vinyl roll flooring is known for its exceptional durability and water resistance. Its seamless nature means fewer places for dirt and moisture to accumulate, making it easier to maintain in high-traffic areas or spaces prone to spills, like kitchens and bathrooms. However, once damaged, repairing sheet vinyl can be more complicated, often requiring a whole section to be replaced.

Cost

When it comes to cost, vinyl tiles are often more expensive per square metre than sheet vinyl. However, the overall expense may balance out if you consider installation costs and the potential for DIY work. Sheet vinyl, while generally cheaper upfront, may incur additional costs for professional installation due to its complexity.

LVT and vinyl roll flooring from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, our Pawsafe Domestic range and our Luxury Vinyl range is made up of both tiles and planks. The Pawsafe Domestic range has been endorsed by Canine Arthritis Management and is recommended for pets for its non-slip qualities and comfort layer. Pet owners also love it for its good looks, low maintenance and scratch resistance. Our Pawsafe Commercial range is supplied on the roll (like carpet) and is recommended for high traffic areas such as veterinary clinics and surgeries, canine cafes and dog daycare centres. To find out more, read our guide to commercial non-slip vinyl flooring.

Both vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl present their own unique benefits and drawbacks, and the choice largely depends on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. To discuss which option suits your current needs, call the team on 01522 300218 or send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

How to install sheet vinyl flooring – a complete guide

At Floors for Paws we install our sheet vinyl flooring using the full stick method. Read on to find out more!

When laying sheet vinyl, installation professionals use one of two methods, known as loose lay and full stick. As the names imply, loose lay involves applying adhesive around the edge of the room only and full stick is when the entire floor surface has adhesive applied.

How to lay sheet vinyl flooring using the loose lay method

  • Unroll the vinyl alongside the longest wall, about 25 mm away from the skirting.
  • When cutting the sheet vinyl, first use a bolster chisel to press the vinyl into the angle between the floor and skirting. This will make a crease in the vinyl which will be your guideline when cutting. Using a sharp blade, cut the vinyl at an angle for a clean finish.
  • Once the sheet vinyl has been cut to size, use a broom to smooth the vinyl down. Work from the centre of the floor out to the edge as this will remove air bubbles which will help to vinyl to stick better.
  • Once the vinyl has been smoothed down, lift eh edges away from the floor and apply adhesive around the edge of the room. Press the sheet flooring down firmly and leave to dry for 45-60 minutes.
  • If you have to join pieces if sheet vinyl, for example in larger areas, secure seams with a seam sealer and double sided adhesive tape.

How to install vinyl flooring using the full stick method

  • Prepare the subfloor for the vinyl by ensuring it is clean and level. Make sure to remove and imperfections and clear all debris. If your subfloor is level and smooth, full stick sheet vinyl flooring requires no underlay but if you’d like to find out more, see our vinyl floor preparation blog posts.
  • Unroll the vinyl, as above, along the longest wall. Make the vinyl lie flat by cutting triangular notches at every internal corner, with scissors.
  • When applying the glue, fold half of the vinyl back and apply adhesive to the floor. Replace the vinyl, pressing it down firmly. Repeat the process for the other half of the vinyl.
  • Wipe off any adhesive that got on top of the floor with a cleaner.

What about the seaming?

Where two lengths of vinyl need to be joined, seams can be heat welded or chemical welded. Chemical welding involves a chemical liquid being applied between the seams. This creates a reaction that fuses the two pieces together. If too little sealer is used, a weak weld will result and if too much is used, the surface area may become flooded.

By contrast, hot joint welding involves the application of heat to fuse the seams, at least 24 hours post-installation so the heat does not affect the adhesive used. Involving a similar technique to soldering, heat welded seams are recommended wherever a waterproof or sterile environment is needed, for example in healthcare settings such as veterinary practices.

Commercial sheet vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, we supply the Pawsafe Commercial range of sheet flooring, endorsed by Canine Arthritis Management. We always recommend that our flooring is installed by professional tradespeople that we know and trust and whose work we are sure of, all of whom use the full stick method with hot welded seams. To see our full range of commercial flooring and to order up to three free samples, click here. For any other questions, contact the team at info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218.

Non-slip flooring for dogs

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

Why do dogs need non-slip flooring?

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

What non-slip flooring offers dogs

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

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

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

Non-slip flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

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

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

A guide to commercial non-slip vinyl flooring

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

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

What we need from commercial vinyl flooring

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

What does commercial flooring for dogs need to offer?

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

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

Pawsafe Domestic range

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

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

Pawsafe Commercial range

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

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

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

A guide to commercial flooring

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

What is commercial flooring?

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

Types of commercial flooring and the businesses they are suitable for

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

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

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

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

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

Features of good commercial flooring

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

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

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

Features of good commercial flooring for dogs

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

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

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

Commercial non slip flooring from Floors For Paws

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

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

 

Pet-friendly floors – What is best for your beloved dog?

dog on luxury vinyl flooring

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

 

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

Features of pet friendly floors for owners

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

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

Best pet friendly flooring for pets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Try before you buy at Floors for Paws

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

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.