Agility Beginner's Question

[ladybroc]

I am just going to begin my dog in agility training (first class, Jan 23rd). They told me to bring a "break away" collar to the class. I am not familiar with this type of collar. Can someone tell me what to look for or even give the brand name of a good one? Thanks.

Joyce

[Karen]

Joyce,

I think what a "break-away" collar is, is one where the fastening will literally break apart or come apart with any pressure on it, as a safety feature. If the collar got snagged on the equipment and the dog pulled (or had fallen off the equipment and caught his collar), the collar fastening would give/break so as to not harm or choke the dog. I don't know if you would then need another new one, or if you can re-fasten it, have never seen one. I'm not familiar with any specific brand names. You could try the various pet supply catalogs (J&J, Petedge, Drs. Foster & Smith, Cherrybrook, etc). You might also call the training center to see if they know where you can get one, or maybe they sell them since they require them.

I use the flat plastic fastening collars for my guys in class and have not had any trouble. I make sure the collar is close fitting, not tight. The other alternative is to have the dog "run naked" at class without a collar.

Karen Majka

PEC Member