TRAINING EQUIPMENT
Many people go to the pet store looking for a solution to obedience problems and pulling. Please don’t purchase a “shock collar” or “halti collar”. These collars do more harm than good. A collar should be suited to your dog’s size, age, breed, and sensitivity. Training collars are not designed to be left on your dog on a permanent basis as there is the real possibility of injury.
Head-Halti or Gentle Leader – These collars are downright dangerous when yanked or if the dog runs to the end of the leash forcefully while wearing one. Your dog could suffer injurious damage to the vertebrae in its neck and back.
Spiked Collars – I do not use “spiked” or “pronged” collars.
Vibrating or Shock Collars – I do not use vibrating or shock collars for training.
Harnesses – Harnesses do not deter pulling. They are used for pulling, such as with sled dogs. Harnesses are a safe option for some dogs, though. Such as small dogs or dogs with restricted breathing or slender necks.
Flexi-Leash – I would only use with puppies and small dogs.
Choke Collars – These collars need to be FITTED and USED properly. A choke collar should resemble the letter “P” when placed on your dog. If it is backwards, it will lock and cause severe injury to your dog.
Martingales, slip collars, or simple buckle collars – These are good, safe alternatives.
VACCINATIONS
All pets are at risk from disease transmitted by parasites/organisms in the environment such as rabies, parvovirus, distemper, and leptospirosis. Puppies are especially vulnerable, as their immune systems are not fully developed. Until your pup is fully immunized, you must be careful about exposure to other dogs and wild animals such as mice, squirrels, birds, raccoons, and the areas where they defecate (particularly surface water).
Parasites that may affect your pet include fleas, ear mites, mosquitoes, ticks and worms. These parasites can also transmit diseases from animals to humans. Consult your vet about a year-round parasite control program.
