Archive for the ‘Furniture’ Category

Buying the Right Pet Bed for Your Active Dog

Friday, August 14, 2009 posted by Frank Stevens

Buying the Right Pet Bed for Your Active Dog

Whenever you turn on the television or open up a magazine, there is bound to be an ad about your health and how important it is to maintain it. The very same thing is true for our pets, but we see much less written about that. Our pets suffer the same aches and pains that humans do and it is frequently difficult to pick up on it because they cannot tell us where it hurts.

This is also true with dogs and their spinal health. Dogs are prone to hip injuries and spinal misalignments, especially those who are active during the day. Running on hard surfaces, jumping repeatedly, and twisting while playing catch can all contribute to sore vertebrae and surrounding muscles. Dogs who display any outward signs of discomfort such as limping or yelping should be seen by a veterinarian or a veterinary chiropractor right away. Even when dogs don’t show signs of spinal discomfort, it is important to ensure that they have what they need to support their spine properly.

One of the most important ways that we keep our own spines in line is by purchasing the correct mattress. The type of mattress most often recommended by doctors and chiropractors is the memory foam mattress. Memory foam was originally invented by NASA to cushion astronauts from the forces experienced during lift off. A memory foam mattress allows the traditional pressure point spots like the shoulder and hip to sink further into the mattress while still supporting the rest of the body. This keeps the spine in a straight line and promotes a restful night’s sleep.

Memory foam is now available for your dog, as well. Padco Memory Foam (padcomemoryfoam.com) offers pet beds in small, medium, large and extra large for all sizes of dogs (and even cats!). Padco’s memory foam pet beds are covered with a microfiber suede cover that can be easily removed for washing. The covers come in several colors including Chocolate, Grey, Hazelnut, Sage, Red, Black and Blue.

A traditional foam or stuffed pet bed allows a pet to sink into it which doesn’t provide any support. This can put pressure on vertebrae and joints as the pet’s body tries to compensate and retain balance. Over time, these beds break down, giving even less support. A memory foam mattress, while more expensive than the cheapest pet beds out there, will last for years and will retain its ability to cradle and support your pet.

Padco uses the same high quality memory foam as it does in its regular mattresses. Because they specialize only in memory foam, you know that you are getting a quality product. Buying locally can give you a nasty surprise if you find out that what was claimed to be memory foam really isn’t. Buying from Padco removes the possibility of buying just another cheap foam pad.

When it comes to your dog’s spinal health, remember that they can’t always tell you where it hurts. You will know when they feel good, however, by their vigor and their kisses.