What role do dog collars play in a pet’s life? Discover here.
If you have never had a dog before, you might not have paid too much attention to if and when other dogs are wearing dog collars. Some do, some don’t. You might see some dogs with a collar indoors and some without. These strips of fabric or leather do a great job of identifying pets, but should dogs wear collars all the time?
Reasons Dogs Should Not Wear Collars All the Time
Dogs should not wear collars at all times. Imagine if you had to wear a collar or a wristband your whole life. It isn’t very comfortable. While dog collars should be comfortable, they are not meant to be on your pet continually. There are some good reasons for this.
- It’s uncomfortable. As mentioned, wearing something around the neck all the time isn’t necessarily comfortable or healthy. It can lead to chafing.
- It’s unsafe. There are many dog collar-related injuries every year; dog collars can snag and become a choking hazard in certain conditions.
- It’s in the way. The veterinarian or groomer may need to remove your dog’s collar to do their jobs properly.
When Your Dog Should Have a Collar
Even so, there are some great reasons to give your dog a dog collar. When should your dog wear one?
- When it’s home alone
- When it’s going for a walk, dog park, or a public place
- When it’s prone to escaping
Dog collars can serve different purposes, but in central Maryland, you are most likely to find it in use for pet identification in case it goes missing. A collar can also be a fashion statement, but keep in mind that comfort and safety are the most important features to look for.
What Makes a Good Dog Collar?
A great dog collar should be snug but not too tight. You should be able to put two fingers between your dog’s neck and the collar. It should also be made to fit comfortably, not having any scratchy seams or materials. It’s a good idea to replace dog collars when they are worn out.
Microchipping as an Additional ID Option
If you want to use a pet collar as identification, it’s worth noting that they can come off. An ID microchip with updated contact information is an additional option for keeping pets safe.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With three Maryland locations in Baltimore, Pasadena, and Cross Keys, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131, 410-793-7670, or 443-470-6790! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!