Are Retractable Leashes Dangerous?

Courtesy of  Lulu Hoeller

With spring-like weather creeping across my region, I look forward to seeing more dogs out and about for longer walks.  Every time I see a happy dog and his or her person enjoying a walk together, I smile.   But as healthy and much fun walking your dog can be, there are always safety hazards, especially in highly populated areas.

One of these became more apparent to me when I received the following letter from a reader:

Dear Gretchen,

... I have two main concerns that I feel need to be known by other animal lovers and dog owners especially!

I work at an animal hospital as a veterinary assistant for many years now and I also dog walk on the side. Both concerns involve the very popular "Flexible Leashes" people use to walk their dogs with lately.

Who's Going To The 2012 Westminster KC Dog Show?

Frank Franklin II, AP

Are you going to the upcoming WKC dog show or any of the related events?  If so, welcome to New York City, and maybe you'll run into me!  Are you interested in having a communication session with your dog while you're in town?  Maybe you'd like to help him or her better understand all of the things going on, or hear his or her opinions on the show afterward?  Feel free to contact me at info@animaltalker.com or via telephone at 917-607-8630.

Best of luck to you and your canine friends, and have a wonderful time!