Make it easier for your dog to get around!
Dogs were not meant to walk on slippery floors. Most dogs, and especially those with arthritis, struggle to have traction on tile, wood, and laminate flooring. And unfortunately many dogs sustain injuries from slipping on this type of flooring.
We believe that one of the most crucial aspects of managing arthritis and caring for dogs with joint disease (especially after surgery) is to provide a traction surface for them to get around at home. This means rugs, carpet, yoga mats, or non-slip tiles. This home modification alone could potentially improve your dogs comfort as much as medication!
Although there are products such as booties or toe grips to help dogs stand on slick floors, these don’t work for all dogs and we find rugs/ runners to be the most effective way to provide stable footing.
Best ways to help your dog get around your home
Cover tile, hardwood, vinyl, and other slick surfaces with
- Rugs/ runners
- Yoga mats
- Gym floor tiles
These are all easy and affordable ways to make your dog feel more secure standing up and walking around.
When you use carpet runners or area rugs, it’s important to put a non-skid pad beneath the rug. You don’t need to do this to the whole house, but the areas where your dog spends most of their time should have plenty of non-slick flooring options.
Don’t forget to carpet the stairs, especially at the base of the stairs.
Don’t forget to put something directly under your dog’s bed to help them get up more easily!