COLLARS, HARNESSES & LEASHES, OH MY!!!

What kind of restraint do I get my pet?  Well, each pet is different, but I thought it would be good to go over pros and cons of each before you wander the pet store isles.  

CATS:
Collars -
Pros - Identification can be used, needs to be a “break-away” collar to keep them safe
Cons - Some cats hate them :) - strangulation can occur if not a break-away collar

Harness -
Pros- Less likely to slip out of them if you are taking them outside for a walk
Cons - Some cats hate them :)

DOGS:
Collars -
Pros - can hold identification and Rabies information, can be used with a leash
Cons - some dogs with more narrow heads can slip out of a leash, can exacerbate signs of collapsing trachea in affected dogs

Harnesses -
Pros - no pressure on the trachea, less likely for some dogs to slip out of
Cons - dogs can pull more efficiently (act like a sled dog) , can cause skin irritation under the arms if size or fit is not correct

Gentle Leader (or "Halti")-
Pros - no pressure on the trachea, EXCELLENT control when walking with little handler effort, usually comes with DVD to example how to teach heal.
Cons - Some dogs do not like having part of the head halter on their nose (most will get used to it with time)

Prong/cinch collars -
These can sometimes be beneficial during specific training times.  These are not efficient for walking.  

Leashes -
Standard leashes - Best for walking since you will have the most effective control.  The dog also learns there is a set length of the leash and so learning to walk on a leash can be taught faster.  

Retractible leashes - The handler has very little control.  It is harder for the dog to learn since the length is ever changing.