I have been caring for your pets for more than twenty five years as a Zoo Keeper, an Animal Services Officer, Veterinary Technician and a professional pet sitter with an Associate of Science degree in Animal Science.
Pet owners often use a collar for the purpose of restraining their dog or cat such as when walking. Collars should not be used for restraint. Your dog or cat can easily escape from a standard collar and martingale and pinch collars can cause injury. Pinch and Martingale Collars should be used only by trained professionals and standard collars should only be used for the purpose of attaching your pet’s identification. A harness is the proper tool for restraining your dog or cat and attaching a leash. You should avoid step in and expandable mesh harnesses. The expandable material in the mesh harnesses can not hold your dog securely and the step in harnesses are difficult to fit properly. An H style harness is usually the best option. Remember it needs to fit tightly to work properly. Think your dog is so well trained you don’t need to keep them on a leash?
If you desire a harness with greater control look for one with the leash attachment in the front rather than on the top. An excellent example is the Freedom no pull harness from Wiggles Wags and Whiskers. I am not affiliated with the company and have never received any compensation from them.
Choose the appropriate size harness for your dog or cat by measuring the circumference from around the belly to the top of the shoulder and adding five percent. You can do this easily with a flexible tape measure. NEVER leave your pet on a tie out without being supervised.
What’s your favorite harness!?