Animal welfare

Why use an orthopedic mattress in older dogs

Dogs, just like us, may need a specific mattress to improve their rest. Much more so if it is about older dogs with pain, mobility problems or that have just come out of a surgical operation . For these cases, orthopedic mattresses for dogs can be a great ally.

What are orthopedic mattresses?:

Orthopedic mattresses for dogs distribute the dog’s weight evenly and adapt to the shape of the animal’s body while lying down. Its function is to avoid pressure points in order to optimize the dog’s rest and joint performance.

Orthopedic mattresses made with memory foam allow the bed to adapt perfectly to the dog’s body, simulating its shape thanks to the memory effect, and then return to its initial state when the dog decides to control the perimeter.

In addition, some mattresses incorporate a waterproof cover, for urinary incontinence or excessive drooling, and with anti-bacterial treatments that increase hygiene and prevent unpleasant odours.

These mattresses are recommended for dogs with osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia or bursitis and if they fulfill their purpose, they will minimize the difficulty and pain when getting up.

Characteristics of a visco-elastic mattress:

-Eliminates pressure points by distributing the dog’s weight correctly and evenly, thanks to the special design of the undulating visco-elastic surface.

-Reduces the formation of hygromas and bursitis.

-Improves the rest of dogs with osteoarthritis or joint problems thanks to the adaptability of the material to the shape of the body.

How do I know what mattress size is right for my dog?

There are dogs that like to sleep making the conch shell, others stretched out and some characters even on their backs. If we know the tastes of ours, it will help to decide the size. In any case, the ideal is to look for a mattress with a comfortable size for the dog, which allows it to stretch and accommodate itself in such a way that its limbs are not outside the mattress.

For this, it is recommended to take the measurement of the dog from the nose to the end of the tail and add approximately 20 cm.

Where is the best place to put the mattress?

Choose a quiet, warm and comfortable place in the house. You can notice where the dog spends most of the time to place it there. Remember to allow her to sniff it out first so she can become familiar with her new nest.

Find a place where the mattress is embedded, that is, it cannot be moved from its site. In older dogs it is possible that when they want to raise their limbs, they inadvertently push the mattress and it moves, making going to bed somewhat frustrating. See if the mattress includes an anti-slip system. This detail could be of great help.

Orthopedic mattresses improve the dog’s quality of life , especially if he has joint pain. After using it for a few days you will notice positive results in your behavior, including an improved mood.

Delia Ortocanis

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  • Ohh man, I never knew that they also need a good mattress especially when they're getting old. I thought, just a good mattress will do. But nope. Ok, will research on our local stores and will buy one. Thank you for this.

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Delia Ortocanis

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