Getting better traction for my old dog

Question
I have a very old dog who is doing relatively well for her age but does lost her footing alot because of my tile and wood floors.  Is there a product I can apply to her back feet pads to help her not slip and fall?

Answer

Hi Monica,

If your dog has long hair between her foot pads, trimming it is the first step to take in getting better traction.
There are booties made for dogs that help with traction, but some dogs do not like things on their feet. You can see a few kinds of dog booties made especially for better traction here:

http://www.ruffwear.com/Barkn-Boots-Grip-Trex

http://www.handsnpaws.com/product/MLMLOUTML2A/Hott_Doggers_Boots_set_of_4_dog_bo...

http://www.ultrapaws.com/Ultra-Paws-TrAction-Dog-Boots/productinfo/301TP/

http://www.etsy.com/listing/20979052/traction-dog-boots-indoor-paw-protection

http://www.poochieheaven.com/tractioncontroldogsocks.html?source=googlebase


There is also a product called "Paw Pads" that provide traction without interfering with normal movement. Made of a thin, textured, rubberized fabric, they attach to the dog's pads with a medical-grade adhesive that lasts up to three weeks. Read more about Paw Pads here:

http://www.puppylovepawpads.com


Along these same lines are products that you products that you spray on, or apply to your dog's foot pads to help with traction such as Firm Grip Anti-Slip Spray, and Bio-Groom Show Foot Anti-Slip Spray, and Shaws Paw Wax:

http://www.cleanrun.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=product.display&Product_ID=1040&Par...

http://www.showdogstore.com/bio-groom-show-foot.aspx

http://www.petsupplies4less.com/Paw-Wax-by-Shaws-50-g--pr--019CLS091


You might also try using carpet runners on your tile and wood floors. Make sure the carpet runners have a non-slip rubber back so they stay in place when walked upon. There are also special mats made especially for dogs, or for areas of the home where extra traction is needed:

https://www.fetchdog.com/pet-supplies/doorway-mats/all-doorway-mats/low-profile-dogwood-doormat/00225?&SSAID=353429&source=shareasale3

http://www.greatmats.com/kitchen-flooring.php


I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti