Once a fashion statement, the Elizabethan collar has taken on a new meaning and a new purpose. It looked uncomfortable, ridiculous, and impractical when the Queen wore it. Also called the E-collar, for short, I’m referring to a collar designed to prevent a dog from being able to lick or bite a wound or surgical suture. I’m not referring to an Electric (shock) collar.
Suppose your dog has ever had the unpleasant experience of wearing an Elizabethan collar made of clear plastic that resembles a lampshade. In that case, you know how difficult it is for your dog to eat, drink, or do many of his normal activities because the collar extends past his nose, and additionally, he can only see straight ahead. It’s also bulky and clumsy, and the poor dog is probably banging into walls and can’t find a comfortable position to sleep. Sometimes, they walk with their head down and the E-collar scraping along the floor if they are sniffing the ground or trying to pick something up. If your dog is in a crate, using a cone-shaped Elizabethan collar can make it almost impossible for your dog to turn around.
So, here to model for us is Wolf, wearing an inflatable collar that serves the same purpose yet allows for everyday activities. In addition to the one shown in the photo, there are other versions that are padded and even shaped like the petals of a flower. These allow for comfort and mobility and will not hamper eating or drinking out of a bowl. Playing with a ball or chew toy is business as usual.
Chances are that if your veterinary office gives your dog an Elizabethan collar, it will be the hard-plastic lamp shade type. However, most veterinarians would have no objection to using a more comfortable collar as long as it offers protection against your dog disturbing a wound, sutured surgical procedure, or bandage during the recovery and healing time. All the alternative collars are available in your favorite pet superstore or online and are reasonably priced. Your dog will thank you for it. But check with your veterinarian first!
