older dog and hardwood floors

Question
We just installed hardwood floors and our 14 year old border collie cannot get up off of them due to his age/arthritis/ etc.  We have put down rugs and that's the only thing that seems to help.  However, when he walks on them his hind part goes out from under him and he can't get up, then growls at us when we try to help him.  Any suggestions?

Answer

Hi Angela,

Laying down non-slip rugs or runners is what I would have recommended to help your dog. If he won't let you help him to get up, I honestly don't know what else you can to.

One thing you can try is a sling to help him get up or move. There are slings made especially for pets that fit under the dog and have handles on each end for you to grasp, can be used to provide support when walking your dog. Slings can be something as simple as using a towel or you can make one fairly easily. A number of mail order dog supply companies sell slings. Fireplace supply stores also sell canvas wood carriers which may be used as a sling, depending upon the size of your dog. Here are some examples of the kinds of slings that are available:

http://www.handicappedpets.com/Articles/sling/

http://handicappedpets.com/www/index.php/help-pets-walk/rear-dog-leg-support.htm...

http://handicappedpets.com/www/index.php/help-pets-walk/30-bottoms-up-dog-rear-s...

http://handicappedpets.com/www/index.php/component/content/article/254.html

http://handicappedpets.com/www/index.php/pet-health/27-pet-products/309-dog-bell...

http://handicappedpets.com/www/index.php/pet-health/27-pet-products/308-combo-ha...

http://www.ioffer.com/i/CUSTOM-MADE-REAR-END-SLING-FOR-INJURED-ELDERLY-DOG-93740...


Best of luck,

Patti