A no-no for dogs and a BIG NO NO for IVDD hounds!
Our hounds can be ticking time bombs when it comes to the health of their spines. Statistics tell us that 1:4 will be affected during their lifetime, some worse than others. As an owner, it’s important to understand what simple measures can reduce the risk of a rupture and also reduce the re-occurrence of further episodes. Many of us have smooth floor surfaces in our homes, but did you know they pose a safety risk for your dog? Hardwood and tiled floors are functional for today’s busy lifestyle, but your dog’s paws aren’t designed to walk on such smooth hard surfaces. And that can lead to slipping, sliding, and falling – and potentially serious injury or re-occurring injury. Dogs need to “get a grip” The first thing we should consider is how a dog walks, and why it’s so hard for it to walk normally – and feel confident about doing so– on a hard, smooth surface. Dogs use their toenails for traction, they will engage their paws, flex their toes, and dig their nails into the earth like footy cleats. But hard nails can’t get a grip on hard floors.
Slipping & Sliding is the problem
Housing dogs and slippery floors will inevitably lead to injury and untold heartache. How many of us are familiar with the “Dachshund Dash”?? The doorbell rings and the next minute …. hell on four legs, slipping and sliding to sort out the stranger on the other side of the door!
Fortunately, we can do several things to ensure our dogs’ safety and comfort, which is even more important when we have a hound in rehabilitation or living the new normal
Prevention & Solutions
- Seek quarterly soft tissue body maintenance check-ups for your IVDD hound.
- Place non-slip mats in the following areas:
- Near front and rear doors.
- Near where your dog eats.
- We understand Dachshunds think they are mountain goats, so if you cannot train your dog to use a ramp make sure non slips mats are placed around any furniture they jump on and off (e.g. couch, bed etc.)
- In the hallway. Baby gates are a good alternative for unsupervised dogs & slippery floors in the house.
- Avoid running and playing on slippery floors, zoomies are an accident waiting to happen!
- Don’t let IVDD hounds in rehab walk on slippery surfaces, use mats at all times! Yoga mats are great
Preventing dogs from slipping and sliding on floors is one step closer to having an injury and a pain-free, happy dog. It will also save you money, and heartache, and prevent significant injuries that lead to surgery.
