The Animal Care & Control photo files contain numerous pictures of animals wearing collars that have become embedded. Most of the animals are young adults. As a puppy or kitten grows, its collar must be loosened to accommodate its neck. If not, the skin of the animal grows around the collar, the collar becomes embedded, and the neck is gradually severed. The result is a painful injury susceptible to bacterial infection, which attracts flies. The flies lay their eggs and, well you can visualize the rest.
With proper attention, an embedded collar can be prevented. Always check your pet's collar for a safe and comfortable fit. Allow a width of two fingers between the collar and the neck when using a traditional nylon or leather collar. Keep identification tags on the collar at all times.
When restraining your animal on your property, it is unlawful to use a rope, chain, or cord fastened directly to the animal's neck. Nor, may a choker chain be used to tether an animal. Animals that must be tied must have a collar or harness made of nylon or leather. The tying device shall be at least six feet in length and attached to the collar or harness with a swivel device on the anchor and collar end to prevent tangling. The animal must not be able to leave the owner's property while restrained.
When training your dog or taking walks, consider using a head control collar such as the Promise collar or the Gentle Leader. Although these collars may remind you of a muzzle, they are not. A control collar is like a head harness for a horse. They are used for training, but allow the dog to drink, eat, pant, and play while wearing it.
The collar's position is high around the dog's neck just behind the ears. The collar makes a figure eight around the dog's muzzle. The design takes pressure off the throat and directs the dog's entire body by controlling the head and nose. When fitted properly, the neck strap is snug. This keeps the nose loop loose enough to move forward to the fleshy part of the nose, yet it cannot be pulled off.
Because the head control collar fits snugly like a belt, it is important to remove it when the dog is sleeping at night or not training or going for walks. By removing the head collar each night, you will be able to monitor the correct fit. Remember that your dog should continue to wear a traditional leather or nylon collar, so it has its identification at all times.
For your cat, purchase an escape design collar. Without a collar, your pet is without tags. Without tags your pet is without protection. Outfit your pet with an appropriate collar and check it frequently for proper fit.
