I have a bone to pick with a certain kind of leash.
This particular leash actually has disclaimers printed on it:
Retractable leashes have been documented to do the following:
** sever fingers (yes, actually amputate them);
** snap unexpectedly, causing impact injuries such as “serious eye damage, broken teeth, cuts and bruises” (quote is from the Flexi-leash manufacturers’ own literature);
** cut or burn your skin, if the leash cord wraps around your arm or leg. The pamphlet advises the dog walker to wear long sleeves and long pants when using the Flexi-leash.
**cause the dog walker to fall;
**prevent quick recall of a dog, so that the dog was able to get into the street and be hit by a passing car;
** cause injuries to bystanders;
Okay, you want to live dangerously and risk bodily harm to you, your dog and everyone else when you go for a walk. Then think about this. Aren’t you actually TEACHING your dog to pull using the Flexi-leash? Your dog pulls on the leash, and lo and behold! he gets to move farther away from you.
You say that you can lock the leash mechanism so that he won’t pull, but how often do you actually do that? You have literally taught your dog to pull you around on the leash.
Another fact: the average price of a retractable leash is $25.00. The usual price of a nylon leash is $13.00. A leather leash costs around $15.00. A cotton leash is $15.00. (Prices from Amazon.com)
LET’S RECAP:
1. Retractable leashes cause injuries.
2. Retractable leashes make it more difficult to control a dog while walking.
3. Retractable leashes cost more than regular leashes.
I’m flummoxed.
For safety reasons alone, retractable leashes should be banned.
Can anyone tell me why retractable leashes are in such widespread use?
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