When the time comes for another visit to the vet, the biggest hurdle may be getting a recalcitrant dog to jump in the car. More daunting, however, is an issue requiring surgery. Every operation causes some trauma, but the protective plastic shielding that prevents post-surgical licking can be equally upsetting. Although these barriers are necessary, discovering a good dog cone alternative can ease the discomfort.
It can be heartbreaking to witness a sad canine attempt to eat and move normally wearing a large, restrictive plastic device. There are people who insist that dogs feel no higher emotions such as humiliation, sadness or embarrassment, but that is not the case. Some become so visibly depressed they refuse favorite foods and will not move, complicating the recovery process.
The standard models provided by vets are tough and rigid. Most are megaphone-shaped, with the smaller end encircling the neck, and the wider portion extending beyond the nose, preventing dogs from accessing the most urgent itches. Sometimes referred to as Elizabethan collars because they resemble the high-fashion formal wear from that era, they are universally reviled by dogs.
Licking may be a natural instinct, but it reopens surgical incisions, encouraging infection and bleeding, complications that are painful and costly. Most larger pet supply centers feature devices that provide cone-like protection without the stress. Sold under various brands, they fit several categories. Because canines vary in features and size, designs target different parts of the body.
Some euphemistically label them avoidance tools, and they target specific body locations. Devices that resemble the neck braces worn by whiplash accident victims are designed to make it hard to reach an injured spot, but do not restrict as much as traditional cones. These are most effective for protecting the forward body or front legs. Another concept is shaped like an inflatable life-saver, and encircles the neck.
These are made of soft plastic, and an enterprising canine may quickly figure out how to deflate them, but they are recommended for quiet breeds. These styles work well when the goal is to prevent biting at the hindquarters, because they block turning ability. Dogs seem to find them more bearable. Specially designed footwear, shorts, or body encompassing sweaters can also prove helpful.
Larger dogs benefit from healing collar designs that extend from jawline to shoulders, and block licking and chewing. Made of foam with a plastic exterior, they limit self-injury without adding extra discomfort. There are also traditional-style shapes that are crafted from soft foam, sometimes covered with fabric instead of harsh plastic. Smaller animals, including cats, find they make eating a simpler proposition.
Take a neck measurement before visiting the store. Most barriers work best when extended one inch or more past the nose. Select a collar that will appropriately restrict access to the injured area. If the dog normally stays home alone during the day, do a test observation before leaving to make sure he can move and drink water properly. A speedy recovery depends on concerned care.
It can be heartbreaking to witness a sad canine attempt to eat and move normally wearing a large, restrictive plastic device. There are people who insist that dogs feel no higher emotions such as humiliation, sadness or embarrassment, but that is not the case. Some become so visibly depressed they refuse favorite foods and will not move, complicating the recovery process.
The standard models provided by vets are tough and rigid. Most are megaphone-shaped, with the smaller end encircling the neck, and the wider portion extending beyond the nose, preventing dogs from accessing the most urgent itches. Sometimes referred to as Elizabethan collars because they resemble the high-fashion formal wear from that era, they are universally reviled by dogs.
Licking may be a natural instinct, but it reopens surgical incisions, encouraging infection and bleeding, complications that are painful and costly. Most larger pet supply centers feature devices that provide cone-like protection without the stress. Sold under various brands, they fit several categories. Because canines vary in features and size, designs target different parts of the body.
Some euphemistically label them avoidance tools, and they target specific body locations. Devices that resemble the neck braces worn by whiplash accident victims are designed to make it hard to reach an injured spot, but do not restrict as much as traditional cones. These are most effective for protecting the forward body or front legs. Another concept is shaped like an inflatable life-saver, and encircles the neck.
These are made of soft plastic, and an enterprising canine may quickly figure out how to deflate them, but they are recommended for quiet breeds. These styles work well when the goal is to prevent biting at the hindquarters, because they block turning ability. Dogs seem to find them more bearable. Specially designed footwear, shorts, or body encompassing sweaters can also prove helpful.
Larger dogs benefit from healing collar designs that extend from jawline to shoulders, and block licking and chewing. Made of foam with a plastic exterior, they limit self-injury without adding extra discomfort. There are also traditional-style shapes that are crafted from soft foam, sometimes covered with fabric instead of harsh plastic. Smaller animals, including cats, find they make eating a simpler proposition.
Take a neck measurement before visiting the store. Most barriers work best when extended one inch or more past the nose. Select a collar that will appropriately restrict access to the injured area. If the dog normally stays home alone during the day, do a test observation before leaving to make sure he can move and drink water properly. A speedy recovery depends on concerned care.
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