Today’s topic is one that comes up frequently at my practice: To collar or not to collar, and, if so, what kind and when?
I believe that every one of our dogs and cats, with few exceptions, should be collared and tagged at all times. The rabies tag and City registration tag are important, but the most useful tag is the one with yours and the petÕs name and your phone number.
This tag provides the helpful stranger with the only way he may have to return your pet should you become separated for whatever reason.
Because of an outdoor catÕs propensity for climbing and wriggling into small spaces, the danger of a collar catching and hanging its owner is great. Prevent this with break-away collars, which unfasten or pull over the catÕs head if it gets caught. Sure, if the collar breaks away, all ID is lost, but as long as it doesnÕt . . .
Never leave a choke collar on a dog; these collars can catch and strangle your dog. Many of us have heard of large dogs jumping against a chain link fence and hanging themselves on their choke collar. Chain collars are to be used exclusively for leashing your dog.
More next month!
Also, just use the home ID tag to minimize what can be get caught.
Dr. Gloria Johnson, a neighborhood veterinarian, writes about pets. Send comments and story ideas to her at 6301 Gaston, Suite 820, Dallas 75214, or FAX to 823-8866.
