Setup Step 4: fit the Collar
To ensure the effectiveness of this product and the comfort and safety of your dog, check the fit of his collar frequently. If you notice that your dog is experiencing skin irritation, discontinue use of the collar for a few days. If the condition persists beyond 48 hours, see your veterinarian.
IMPORTANT: The proper fit and placement of the collar is important for effective use.
CAUTION: Please read and follow the instructions in this manual. Proper fit of the collar is important. A collar worn for too long, or made too tight on the dog’s neck may cause skin damage. This is called bed sores; it is also called decubitus ulcers or pressure necrosis.
- Avoid leaving the collar on the dog for more than 12 hours per day.
- When possible, reposition the collar on the dog’s neck every 1 to 2 hours.
- Check the fit to prevent excessive pressure; follow the instructions in this manual.
- Never connect a lead to the collar; it will cause excessive pressure on the contacts.
- When using a separate collar for a lead, don’t put pressure on the collar.
- Wash the dog’s neck area and the contacts of the collar weekly with a damp cloth.
- Examine the contact area daily for signs of a rash or a sore.
- If a rash or sore is found, discontinue use of the collar until the skin has healed.
- If the condition persists beyond 48 hours, see your veterinarian.
- For additional information on bed sores and pressure necrosis, please visit the FAQ section.
These steps will help keep your dog safe and comfortable. Millions of dogs are comfortable while they wear stainless steel contacts. Some dogs are sensitive to contact pressure. You may find after some time that your dog is very tolerant of the collar. If so, you may relax some of these precautions. It is important to continue daily checks of the contact area. If redness or sores are found, discontinue use until the skin has fully healed.
TO ENSURE A PROPER FIT, FOLLOW THESE STEPS:
- With your dog standing, centre the collar underneath your dog’s neck.
- For the GPS Collar with E-collar Module, the Contact Points should touch the skin. If your dog has a long or thick coat, you have two options to ensure consistent contact: either trim the hair around the Contact Points or switch to the longer Contact Points included with your system.
- You may need to trim the hair in the area of the Contact Points. Never shave the dog’s neck; this may lead to a rash or infection.
- You should not make the collar any tighter than is required for good contact. A collar that is too tight will increase the risk of pressure necrosis in the contact area.
- The collar should fit snugly, yet loose enough to allow one finger to fit between the strap and your dog’s neck.
- Allow your dog to wear the collar for several minutes, and then recheck the fit. Check the fit again as your dog becomes more comfortable wearing the collar.
- Note: To ensure the best reception possible, make sure the GPS antenna is positioned on the back of your dog’s neck.
