This is relatively rare in other mammals and certainly not on the top ten for others. Firstly, is there a correlation to leash use? Secondly is there a higher incidence of other thyroid/parathyroid conditions in dogs over other mammalian species.

Out walking with my own dog, my parent’s dog or even alone, it is amazing the number of individuals you see with a dog straining continually on a leash – I’ve pointed out that I needed to train such behaviour out of my wakling pattern – or pulling particularly hard when approaching another dog.

Quite clearly, using a choke collar (or any other ‘tightening’ device) for dog control creates more than adequate tension to cause trauma to the sensitive gland tissue in the neck. However, soft collars or leather collars may also cause similar damage with sufficient pressure – less likely as the muscles in the side of the neck are a bit more protective.

As a forensic scientist, I feel it would be interesting, if not conclusive, to establish the cummulative effect of collar pressure when compared to the less traumatic harnesses and halters. Is anyone aware of such a study?

Clearly there is no one perfect solution as harnesses may cause considerable strain to chest muscles and shoulder joints and halters can potentially strain necks. The only solution is to train the strain out.

Stuart

Our former vet used to love it when we arrived. The card machine, or the cash drawer would be poised for action the second we walked in the door. Once my dog was diagnosed (on a second opinion) with a thyroid condition – that vet didn’t want to know anymore and sent us away (as if I would have stayed with him in any case!!!!). Of course thyroid treatment is pennies compared to treating all of the above listed conditions separately!!! Please be careful.