Posted by Roxanne Hawn | Posted in Dog Product Review | Posted on 08-12-2009
Over the weekend, I ordered a Therapaws mat from Soar Pet Products because with the bitter temps around here this winter (well below zero many days at a time) Ginko seems much stiffer and in more pain. We’re doing what we can nutritionally and with massage and meds, but I wanted to try this dog mat that’s made from Holofiber, which is also used in clothing and such for human athletes to build strength, increase energy and speed muscle recovery.
According to the Soar Pet Products site: “This fabric works with the animal’s body to increase oxygen levels.” I figure better oxygenation cannot be a bad thing.
Honestly, it sounds a little woo-woo to me, but our trainer (Gigi Moss) says that her dogs seek out these mats among all their bedding options. So, our little experiment will include me moving the mat around Ginko’s various hangouts to see if he flocks to it or not. I will probably put it in his crate at night as well. So, look for me to report back in the coming weeks about if it helps his arthritis and general health, or not.
Let me add, in accordance with FTC guidelines, that I am paying “cost” ($33), not retail ($129), for this mat. Angela Cicero, who is a partner in Soar Pet Products, offered me this deal to test out and review Therapaws on the blog. Otherwise, I am not being paid any endorsement fees, nor am I under any obligation to give a positive review, if Ginko does not show improvement. I must also disclose that I met Angela through Gigi, whom I consider a valued adviser. Gigi may soon become a client as well. We’re in talks for me to rewrite her website content.
So, now that all the fine print is done, I just want to say that I’m excited to try this dog mat out. If the weather ever warms up enough and if my generalized life drama lets up enough, I hope to pick up the mat next time we go to class, possibly next Sunday, if things work out.
Stay tuned.
I’m definitely interested to hear your observations. Anything that might help Z be a little more comfortable is something I am interested in!
I will definitely let you know if it helps.
I agree that the temperatures around here have been insane. I took a walk in -9 deg this afternoon. My toes were goners by the end of 20 min.
My youngish dogs don’t seem to mind in the least. But, I’m hearing from my friends with older dogs that they’re all hobbling around and refusing to go for walks. So, we’ll all be interested in hearing how this works for you!
I’m looking forward to the results!
I can’t wait for you to post what you think of these, Roxanne. My Emma is pretty stiff this winter.
Definitely post how the pooch responds, because I’m keen on getting this for mine if it works out for yours.
I look forward to hearing your conclusions. I would love to give a product like this to a very special friend who really cares about her aged dog, in spite of the high price tag!