Sat 4th Nov: Collars and harnesses: get it right

Josie is still missing

One of the things that we do when a dog or puppy is adopted is to recommend which type of collar and harness is best, as well as all of the other things that are necessary for a new family member.  Some adopters like to buy a lovely new bed, bowls, toys and accessories, but you can also make your own toys out of knotted socks, prepare home-cooked meals (making sure it's a balanced diet, especially for puppies that need good nutrition for growing bones) and even air-dry your own meat and vegetables for healthy snacks.  One thing, however, that we don't recommend you make yourself is the harness, although collars can be woven or plaited or as long as they are secure and safe.  This is because there are different types of both collars and harnesses, and they can mean the difference between life and death when a dog is new to your home and unused to the area and environment.  It takes one step backwards for a "step-in" type harness to drop right off, or a tug on a loose or stretchy collar for it to slip over the dog's head.

While a choke collar, whether rope or chain, is an absolute no under any circumstances, there is a type of tightening collar called a martingale which can be fitted to be snug enough not to be able to slip over the head, while comfortable when loose.  Plaited collars stretch, leather collars tend to stiffen and can also easily be pulled off.  In general, collars should be for dogs that don't pull on the leash and only need something to get hold of or to carry identification.  Constant pressure on the neck from a collar with a dog that pulls, especially with a choke chain, causes serious injury over time.  (Shock collars are an abomination that are only fit for the bin).

There are many really good harnesses on the market these days, including the Julius-K9 harness which is strong and secure, and the Easywalk, which we recommend for all dogs that tend to pull.  In general, when out walking a harness is safer in every way and much kinder on the dog's neck and body.

This step-in harness is not safe or secure

One harness that should be left on the pet store shelf is the step-in type, and we can pretty much guarantee that any new dog that is taken home in one of these is going to slip out and run away very quickly.  Please do not use them, because as easy as they are to put on, they are even easier to take off.

I mention this now because recently adopted Josie was wearing a step-in harness when she was spooked and stepped right out, and hasn't been seen since.  It's even more worrying in a way because Josie isn't even a particularly timid or nervous dog, yet there have been no sightings at all.  So please, for your sake and your dog's, don't take risks with safety.

Meet them on Sunday

I have lots of gorgeous puppies to take to Whiskers N Paws this Sunday, and remember you can also pick up your Peak to Fong T-shirts and sponsorship forms at the same time.

Rafi will also be coming and he is still without a new home to move to, so we are very concerned for this lovely young boy.  He is such a loving and affectionate dog and it's so hard for his foster parents to have to say goodbye, but things are what they are.  If you can, please come to Whiskers N Paws to meet Rafi and consider him to join your family.

Rafi and foster Anne