Dogs Found With Collars Embedded In Their Necks: RivCo Update

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — Two dogs received special care this week from the Riverside County Department of Animal Services veterinary team after the canines were found with collars embedded into their necks.

Agency spokesperson John Welsh said the dogs' unfortunate condition was an opportunity to educate the public about the dangers of objects tied around pets’ necks for extended periods.

The two injured dogs were placed in the shelter within the past week, according to Welsh. One of the animals, a 1-year-old Chihuahua mix, was brought in as a stray. The other, a 2-year-old female German shepherd mix, was picked up as a stray in unincorporated area near Perris by animal services officer Adam Haisten.

Registered veterinary technician Tonya Buenrostro discovered the Chihuahua mix smelled of decay and was in pain because a hairband was tied around her neck and had become embedded, according to Welsh.

Dr. Itzel Vizcarra, DVM, and Buenrostro treated the Chihuahua’s wound and the dog was cared for in the shelter's treatment/receiving area for several days. The female pooch was adopted Thursday, Welsh reported.

When Haisten picked up the German shepherd mix, it had a chain wrapped tight around its neck, also causing injuries from the embedded collar, according to Welsh. Animal services Sgt. Kellsey Hoesman assisted by snapping the chain off with bolt cutters, and Dr. Vizcarra treated the dog with assistance from registered veterinary technician Pam Gates.

It’s very important for a pet’s collar to be properly sized and adjusted as the animal grows, said Dr. Sara Strongin, the county’s chief veterinarian.

“A collar applied to rapidly growing puppies and kittens must be monitored frequently and a larger collar may be needed when your pet outgrows the first one,” Strongin said. “You want the collar to be snug enough that it doesn’t fall off, but loose enough that is not applying too much pressure to the skin.”

Strongin suggested that a pet owner should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and the dog’s neck. The same goes for cat collars.

Strongin said that although the two shelter dogs' injuries were treated, there may be permanent scarring on the animals' necks.

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