Many dogs can not tolerate the large, plastic, conical, Elizabethan Collars that most veterinary offices provide following canine surgery. If you are dealing with a dog that is able to get their e-collar off, refuses to lay down with the e collar on, is marking up the furniture with the collar, unable to eat, sleep, or rest with the collar in place, or is acting in an aggressive manner toward the ecollar, there are options available!

The ProCollar has an inflatable inner bladder made of a plastic vinyl that is inflated through a two-way air valve much like a beach ball. When the Pro Collar is inflated, the size and thickness of the ProCollar function as a soft deterrent to biting. The inner bladder is protected by a pliable plastic outer jacket lined with a durable canvas material to resist bites and scratches. While wearing the ProCollar, pets are able to eat, sleep and play at ease while staying protected. The ProCollar is held in place by inserting the pet’s everyday collar through the ProCollar’s three inner rings, and the velcro strap should be placed at the back of the neck and then adjusted for a perfect fit.

There are also a variety of soft E-Collars on the market, which simply look like a traditional e-collar made from a soft, pillow like foam material. The Soft-E-Collar is a lightweight foam pillow and is often covered with a durable, attractive vinyl. It is an effective alternative to the plastic elizabethan collar (“E Collar”), and is easily cleaned and stain resistant. The pillow passes over the pet’s head and ties around the neck with a drawstring – sometimes there are also velcro attachments depending on the manufacturer. The Soft-E will prevent a dog or cat from licking or biting most parts of his body.

Being the creative people we are, pet owners have also been known to use their own shirts, pants, towels, etc. to create elaborate, homemade E-Collar alternatives. Be sure to read the comments below for homemade suggestions from the Dog Knee Injury Community or add your own tip!

Alternatives to an E-Collar is a post from: Dog Knee Surgery and Ligament Injuries