Check that your dog’s collar and harness fit properly

The staff at Adams County Pet Rescue encourages pet owners to check collars and harnesses. Not too long ago, they got a male German shepherd in that had a collar that was too tight.

The dog was a stray and only about 1 1/2 years old. They believe he escaped from somewhere in the city limits of Othello.

The collar had dug into the dog’s neck and caused a major wound.

“Make sure you can fit at least two fingers under the collar,” said Adams County Pet Rescue employee Brandon Palmore. “And don’t tie your dog to something that tugs on his neck.”

Palmore said whether you use a wide or narrow collar depends on the dog.

According to the American Kennel Club, some dog owners choose to use a harness rather than a collar to make them more comfortable. There are three different types of harnesses — standard, step-in and front clip. Each can be a bit tricky to put on, but with the proper instructions and some practice, you and your dog should become comfortable with the harness.

A standard dog harness has one loop around the ribs, one loop around the neck and a D-ring on the back to clip the leash to. Make sure it is adjusted to fit properly and you should be able to slip two fingers underneath any strap. Try pulling the harness over the dog’s head to make sure it is secure.

Step-in harnesses are similar to standard, except they form triangles around the dog’s legs. Again, check to see that it fits properly.

Front clip dog harnesses have the leash clip in the front over the dog’s chest and are designed to discourage pulling. Some are shaped like the standard or step-in types. If so, follow the steps for those harnesses.

The front clip ones with a different design have a loop that goes around the ribs and a single strap that goes across the chest. There is no divider between the dog’s legs. Adjust it as stated above.

Some harnesses can be tricky to figure out, but they are easy once you get the hang of them. The most important step is to make sure the harness is snug but also not too tight.

“A harness that is too tight can rub the dog raw,” Palmore said.

He also recommends checking your dog’s water constantly if it is outside most of the time. And short-haired dogs should wear a sweater when it’s cold.

“Whether you choose a collar or harness, make sure it fits properly to prevent injury,” Palmore said.

Adams County Pet Rescue is located at 1961 Bench Road east of the fairgrounds. Hours are noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The facility is closed Mondays and Thursdays for cleaning.

To contact ACPR, call (509) 488-5514 or email adopt@AdamsCountyPetRescue. Be sure to visit the website at www.adamscountypetrescue.com and like its Facebook page.