Navigating life with a Tripawd takes planning. Like, what happens when you are traveling for the pawlidays and headed to a home with slippery floors? Or what if YOU have slick floors and your dog suddenly needs a leg amputated?
If you’re wondering how your three-legged dog will ever walk on slippery floors again, Nellie has a suggestion: Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips!
We purchased these ourselves, but head’s up; we do get a small commission when you support Tripawds through your purchase of Toe Grips.
Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips are the Safest Way for Most Tripawds to Walk on Slick Floors
Five years ago, we tried Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips on Tripawds Spokesdog II, Wyatt Ray Dawg. We could clearly see how much they prevented slipping on his grandpaw and grandmaw’s slick floors. Now five years later with 3.5-legged, it was time to try a traction solution for Tripawds Spokesdog III, Nellie B. Dawg.
Of course we tried Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips first! Here’s what happened.
Why Toe Grips are Better Than Dog Booties for Tripawds on Slippery Floors
Hardwood, tile, or slick floors are still a Tripawd’s nemesis. One wrong step, one zoomie too many, and a fall on a slick floor can cause muscle strain, or worse!
Nellie is nearly 10 years young now, and we worried about her sliding around at grandmaw’s house this pawliday season. So we ordered Toe Grips to be prepared on Thanksgiving, and are so glad we did.
What They Are
Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips are small non-slip little rubber band-style coverings that fit over your dog’s toenails to create better grip on smooth surfaces.
Unlike socks or boots that cover paw pads, these let Nellie feel the floor while helping her nails grip for traction.
Why Toe Grips Work for Tripawds and Other Special Needs Dogs
Three-legged dogs and those with mobility issues like Nellie will shift their weight in unusual patterns. Without good traction they can slip, strain muscles, or tense their bodies trying to stay upright.
Toe Grips help reduce this everyday struggle by giving dogs a little “grab” on slick surfaces. Put them on and your Tripawd won’t have to fight their footing on every step.
How Nellie Likes Them
In the video, you can see Nellie walk confidently across floors she used to slide on. She’s less hesitant and can stay steady when walking through the house, just like her predecessor Wyatt got to enjoy.
Tips for Using Toe Grips on Tripawds
Your dog really needs to be comfortable with someone touching their paws. If not, ask your veterinarian for help. Most vets know about Toe Grips and can guide you in how to apply them to your Tripawd’s three feet.
- Toe Grips require preparation. First you soak them in rubbing alcohol for a few minutes.
- Have treats ready! No dog loves having their feet messed with. Be ready with a treat machine helper.
- Tripawds need them glued on because of their unique gait. Just apply a dab of Super Glue inside each Grip.
- Now, carefully slide each Grip onto the nails. Not too far, you don’t want to push against the top of your pup’s nails.
Once on, most dogs stop noticing them pretty quickly. Toe Grips don’t interfere with normal walking or play either. And they’re designed by a veterinarian who understands what it takes to keep dogs happy and safe while wearing them!
When your dog needs a nail trim, just remove the Grips and re-apply afterward. Keep an eye on nail growth and remove/trim nails as needed. Long nails can hide under Toe Grips!
Nellie Gives Toe Grips a 3-Paws Up!
For Nellie, these Toe Grips have been a game-changer on grandmaw’s slick floors. They’re simple, non-invasive, and perfect for everyday wear too. There’s no remembering to put booties on, or worry about her walking outside of the carpet runners we set up for her.
If you’re living with a Tripawd, we highly recommend Toe Grips for normal everyday living and traveling! Dr. Buzby’s team offers fantastic support if you have any questions or concerns.