If I told you that you could invest around one dollar and have a versatile tool that can prevent a dog from slipping its collar and getting loose as it enters the business, assist you in safely removing a dog from a crate, can be used to guide a dog from point A to point B during the grooming process (for instance, from tub to table) can be turned into a makeshift muzzle in a pinch, can be used as a safety loop or a haunch holder for a brief period or even given as a thoughtful gift, would you believe me?
It's all true. The tool I am referring to is the humble kennel lead. Made from strong woven nylon with a sold "O" ring, I believe a kennel lead belongs in every smock pocket.
Here is why:
It is a cardinal rule that one should never trust the customer-provided collar, harness, or leash. Why? Because often, the equipment provided does not correctly fit the pet. A savvy dog can back out of a poorly fitted collar or harness as quick as a wink. Also, many leashes have been chewed or damaged, and a good tug from a pet wanting to avoid leaving its owner can cause that leash to snap. A kennel lead slipped behind the pet's ears is a fabulous insurance policy if you move animals from the owner's possession into your business. You will still have a secure hold on the pet if the provided collar, harness, or leash fails.
- If a dog feels shy while in a cage or kennel, the handy slip lead can be placed gently around its neck, giving you a way to encourage the pet to join you calmly.
- When you need to move a dog from a kennel to the bathtub or the tub to the table, having a kennel lead on hand gives you control.
- Imagine you are grooming a dog when it suddenly tries to bite you. A kennel lead can swiftly be wrapped around the snout and held snugly until a more appropriate muzzle can be placed. I hope a dog never tries to bite you, but a kennel lead can be mighty handy if one does.
- Purpose-made grooming loops work best when restraining a pet during grooming, but in a pinch, a kennel lead can do the job.
- For the occasional dog that insists on sitting down every thirty seconds when you are trying to scissor its tail or haunches, a kennel lead, looped over the grooming arm and kept loose under the tuck up, can remind the dog to stay standing so you can finish your job.
- If an embarrassed customer comes in with Mr. Fluff tied to a bathrobe belt or their kid's jump rope, you can make their day by gifting them with a bright, handy kennel lead of their very own.
Kennel leads are an inexpensive multi-purpose tool that every groomer should consider keeping in their pocket. It goes well with this clever quote, "It's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it."
By Daryl Conner, MPS, MCG
Daryl Conner has been devoted to making dogs and cats more comfortable and beautiful for almost 40 years. You can find her happily working at FairWinds Grooming Studio with her daughter and infant granddaughter, or typing away at her latest grooming-related article. Daryl was awarded both a Cardinal Crystal Award and Barkleigh Honors Award for journalism. She shares her meadow-hugged antique Maine farmhouse with her practically perfect husband and too many animals.
