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Tag: dog walker

  • Harness or Collar? How to Choose What’s Right for Your Dog

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    If you’ve ever walked down the pet aisle, you know how many options there are for dog collars and harnesses. It can be overwhelming! Which one’s better? Which is safer? And which should you use for your dog?

    As a certified veterinary technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen both harnesses and collars used successfully — but I’ve also seen what can go wrong when the wrong one is used for the wrong dog.

    Both have their pros and cons. The best choice really depends on your dog’s age, breed, behavior, and health.

    Let’s take a closer look. 👇

    🦴 Collars: The Classic Choice

    A collar is the traditional tool most people start with. It goes around your dog’s neck and can hold identification tags, making it an everyday essential.

    ✅ Pros of Collars:

    • Simple and easy to use: Slip it on and go.
    • Ideal for ID tags: Keeps your dog’s identification visible and accessible.
    • Lightweight: Comfortable for most dogs to wear all day.
    • Good for calm walkers: Perfect for dogs that don’t pull on the leash.

    ❌ Cons of Collars:

    • Neck pressure: Dogs that pull hard can injure their throat or trachea.
    • Not ideal for certain breeds: Small dogs, brachycephalic breeds (like pugs), or dogs with neck issues should avoid them.
    • Slip risk: Some dogs can back out of flat collars if they’re not fitted properly.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
    Always make sure you can fit two fingers comfortably between the collar and your dog’s neck — snug but not tight!

    🐕 Harnesses: Control and Comfort

    A harness wraps around your dog’s chest and shoulders, distributing pressure across the body rather than the neck.

    They’ve become very popular for safety and comfort — especially for active dogs, pullers, and puppies still learning leash manners.

    ✅ Pros of Harnesses:

    • Better control: Great for training and preventing pulling.
    • Safer for the neck: Reduces strain on the throat and trachea.
    • Helps with leash training: Front-clip options discourage pulling gently.
    • Ideal for small or flat-faced dogs: Prevents breathing strain.

    ❌ Cons of Harnesses:

    • More to put on: Some dogs need time to get used to them.
    • Can be bulky: Not all dogs like the feel, especially in hot weather.
    • Improper fit = rubbing: Always check for chafing behind the legs.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
    Harness fit is key! It should be snug but not tight — and you should be able to slip two fingers under the straps easily.

    🐾 Which Should You Choose?

    It depends on your dog’s behavior, health, and lifestyle.

    SituationBest ChoiceWhy
    Calm, leash-trained dogsCollarLightweight and simple for daily wear
    Dogs that pull or lungeHarnessOffers better control without neck strain
    Small or flat-faced breeds (Pugs, Frenchies)HarnessProtects airways from pressure
    Dogs with trachea or neck issuesHarnessReduces strain and coughing
    Quick potty breaksCollarEasy on, easy off
    Training puppiesHarnessPrevents injury and builds good habits

    💙 My Recommendation:
    Use both! A collar for ID tags and daily wear, and a harness for walks or training. That way, your dog stays safe, comfortable, and well-controlled in every situation.

    🐶 Final Thoughts

    Whether you choose a harness, a collar, or both — the goal is the same: a safe, happy, and comfortable dog.

    Every dog is different, so the best choice depends on their individual needs. If you’re ever unsure, ask your veterinarian or vet tech to help fit your dog properly. A little adjustment can make a big difference!

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Why Walking is Good for Your Dog’s Health

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    Whether the sun is out or you will have to bundle up to face the wind and cold weather, the truth is that walking your dog can be very good for the two of you. Even though there are going to be days when you would prefer to stay inside in front of the television, the truth is that you should find time every day to get some fresh air with your dog.

    There are so many incredible benefits to walking your dog. Here are some reasons why you should grab a leash and take a trip around the block.

    Walking is a good cardiovascular exercise that is relatively safe.

    Whether you are in shape or your goal is to get back into shape, walking is a great way to get and stay healthy. It can help you (and your dog) lose weight and stay fit. Before you decide to take the day off, consider your health and fitness goals. You may decide to do a loop around the block for you and your dog’s health!

    Walking provides both mental and physical stimulation for your dog.

    Some dogs, especially those that spend most of their time indoors, need to exercise both their body and their mind. A walk outside will help them discover new places and things. They may meet other people, dogs, and animals.

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    They will see places that they wouldn’t otherwise see if they stayed in their yard. This is especially true if you take your dog to parks and other places to get your daily exercise.

    Walking helps dogs become accustomed to various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and bikes, as well as other everyday objects.

    As you and your dog are out and about, you will introduce him or her to new things. This can include cars, trucks, bikes, and much more. Though you want your dog to get used to them, you also want to make sure that your dog learns to be wary of them. As your dog learns about these dangers, you should also teach them how you want them to handle them. You may want to teach your dog to sit on the side of the road when a truck goes by.

    Walking allows you to spend quality time with your dog.

    In our busy lives, it can be challenging to find time to spend quality time with those we love, including our dogs. By making your walks together a priority, you ensure that you spend meaningful time together. This will help both of you feel loved and appreciated.

    Knowing that you have to take your dog for a walk should be enough motivation to do it.

    The simple truth is that, no matter how much you want to exercise, it is really easy to find excuses not to. It’s really easy to get distracted by your phone or the television and realize that an hour or two has passed. However, when you have a dog that relies on your daily (or multiple times a day) walks, you can’t tell them no. You find the time to get outside. This is beneficial for both your health and your dog’s health.

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    Walking your dog is essential for good health. Not only will it help you get in shape, but it will also aid your dog in shedding excess weight.

    Even better, having a dog will not allow you to find excuses for not exercising. You need to make time to get out of the house and go for a walk. It is also essential for your relationship with your dog. It will give you plenty of quality time together.

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    Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • What to Look for In a Pet Sitter

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    It is almost that time of year again when most people go away for a few days to relax, unwind, or explore somewhere they have never been before. That is fun for most people, though pet owners also have to worry about what they can do with their beloved babies while they are away.

    Many people decide to place their pets in a kennel. I recently wrote an article about choosing the right kennel for your pet. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, you can read it right here.

    That being said, many people would prefer to hire a pet sitter to check in a few times a day or have someone stay at the house so that their pets receive plenty of attention.

    Not sure how to choose a pet sitter? Here are some tips to help.

    You need to know exactly what you want in a pet sitter. 

    Do you want someone to come in three to four times daily to let your dogs outside for an hour or so? Do you want someone who will walk your dog like you usually would? What about playing?

    Even if you have a cat, you may want someone to come sit with your pet for a little bit each day. Would you prefer someone to stay overnight, so your pets aren’t alone?

    If your friends have used someone, don’t hesitate to ask who they use. 

    It may also be helpful to ask them what they liked and didn’t like about a particular person. This may help you determine the questions you need to ask to feel comfortable leaving your pets with them.

    If your friends don’t have any ideas, you can look at the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS). This is a nonprofit trade association for pet sitters and their businesses. You can look up pet sitters by zip code. These are professional pet sitters, meaning that it may cost you more than hiring a high schooler in the neighborhood.

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    You may also want to check into a pet-sitting company. 

    These companies are often bonded and insured, which can provide you with even greater peace of mind. They may offer background checks and training, which can make you feel even better.

    These companies, especially those with multiple sitters, may be able to help if something happens to your pet sitter. If your sitter is running late due to an emergency, they likely have arrangements in place to help cover these situations.

    You should also find out what the pet sitter will do in the event of an emergency. 

    While you may hope that your pet sitter will take your dog to the veterinarian if needed, they may have a trusted veterinarian they use when owners are out of town.

    If they are happy taking your dog to his or her veterinarian, you need to talk to your veterinarian’s office and let them know that you will be out of town and are letting the sitter make the decisions for you if you are unavailable.

    When you narrow down your search, you should meet with them in person (along with your pet). 

    Not only do you need to feel comfortable, but your pet also needs to be happy with your choice. You will want someone who is genuinely interested in talking to you and asking questions about your pet, as well as someone eager to get to know your pet. Watch how they interact. Does your dog seem happy to see the pet sitter, or is he or she acting leery around them?

    Be ready for your pet sitter. 

    You should have a detailed list of all the things you expect from them, including specific times. If you want your pet fed at a specific time of day or walked during lunch hour, please let your sitter know.

    You should also keep all the supplies in one area so that they are easy to find. Make sure that any food that your dog eats (as well as a cup showing them how much he or she needs to be fed) is right there, as well as any treats that your pet is allowed to have. Toys, leashes, and other supplies should all be in the same spot, so your pet sitter doesn’t waste time looking for things.

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    Hiring a pet sitter is a big decision. You will need to find someone whom you trust, as well as your dog trusts. But before you get that far, you need to figure out what you want in a pet sitter. Do you want someone to come for an hour, three or four times a day? Do you want someone to stay at your house overnight? Do you want someone to play with your pet or take your dog for extra-long walks?

    When you figure that out, you can start looking by asking around. You may feel comfortable hiring the high school girl next door; however, you may also want to consider a company that specializes in hiring pet sitters. These companies are often bonded and insured, prepared for any unforeseen event that may occur. This may give you extra peace of mind when you head out on vacation!

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    Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.