5 Reasons to Rethink Retractable Leashes
Chicago pet parents are no strangers to the journey of choosing the right leash for your pet! There are loads of great options on the market, but the one we want to focus on today is the retractable leash. While retractable leashes might seem like an excellent tool for giving pets freedom while still being on a leash, they can pose several risks - not only to your pet, but to yourself! In this article, we'll explore five reasons why retractable leashes may not be your best bet.
1. City Triggers
One of the biggest dangers is one that actually has nothing to do with your pet. Even the most well-trained, social and obedient pets can find overstimulating triggers while on their walk. Loud noises, fast-moving vehicles, and other animals are just the basics. Consider the danger of a car accident scaring your pet and they bolted. The retractable leash is not strong enough and would likely snap. A retractable leash gives your pet the opportunity to move dangerously far away from you making it challenging to regain control in a potentially harmful situation. This can lead to dangerous scenarios, especially if your pet darts into the street or comes into unwanted conflict with other animals.
2. Snapback
The thin cord of a retractable leash is no match for a moving pet. The constant wear and tear of the leash can eventually lead to it snapping under force. If your pet makes a quick move unexpectedly, the sudden tension could break the leash. Not only does this pose a risk of your pet getting lost or injured, but the snapback of the cord can also cause injury to you or bystanders.
3. Control is Compromised
Traditional leashes offer direct and sturdy control, allowing you to quickly and easily manage your pet's movements. Retractable leashes, often extending 20 to 30 feet, offer too much leeway. This length makes it far more difficult to control your pet in sudden situations. Having a fixed leash means less guesswork and immediate response when it counts. Again, even the tiniest, slowest moving pet cannot be 100% controlled on a retractable leash. Especially here in Chicago, there’s simply too many moving parts to ensure complete safety.
4. Burns, Cuts, and Tangles
The long cords of retractable leashes are infamous for causing burns and cuts if they wrap around you or your pet during a sudden move. The leash can quickly entangle, and in a panic, either you or your pet could end up with painful injuries due to the thin, fast-moving cord.
5. The Wear and Tear Factor
Just like any device with mechanical components, retractable leashes are prone to deterioration over time. The retraction mechanism can fail, locks may stop working, and with each malfunction, your pet's safety is compromised. Continuous use and exposure to the elements can speed up this wear, leading to unreliable performance when you need it the most.
On the surface, retractable leashes seem to offer the best of both worlds - freedom for your pet and control for you. However, the risks they pose are considerable. For the safety of your pet, yourself, and others, it's worth considering more secure and reliable options for your pet's next outdoor adventure. Remember, a safe pet is a happy pet, and sometimes that means sticking to the classics!
Sincerely,
The BLVD Team