Ditch the Retractable Leash: Hidden Dangers

Retractable leashes are a common sight in parks and on sidewalks, often touted for their benefits and the freedom they give dogs to adventure. But beneath the surface of pull-free convenience, these leashes pose significant dangers. Here are the reasons we don't use retractable leashes at our rescue and why you shouldn't either!

We get it. Retractable leashes can extend up to 26 feet, giving dogs ample room to roam and prevents resistance, creating a weightless walk. But the long leash and pulley mechanism can make it difficult to control your dog in critical situations. Preventative breaking is a good practice, but what happens when it's too late?

Expect the Unexpected

Whether it’s stopping them from eating something harmful, preventing a collision or stopping a confrontation with another dog, the delay in retracting the leash can be dangerous. The extended length of retractable leashes can also easily entangle pedestrians, cyclists or other pets. We've all been there before. Panic can cloud judgement, making it easy to forget that retracting the leash too quickly also has its hazards: tangled cord, snapping, catching -- all that comes with a fast moving, slim cord that can easily cause injury.

Risks of Injury

The retractable leash is known to cause injury in a moments notice. Around legs, snapping back towards the face, burns, getting caught around a dog's neck. It can even be as severe as amputation if it wraps around fingers or hands with your dog still attached. If a dog suddenly bolts, this lack of control can easily make the thin strap and pulley mechanism a hazard to everyone around. It's like playing a dangerous game of tug-of-war and the leash always wins!

Hazards are not there by accident!

Being 16 ft. away costs precious seconds.

Other Options

Given these risks, it's wise to consider alternatives that offer safety without sacrificing convenience. A retractable leash can actually hinder the chances of a dog being properly leash trained or off-leash trained. If freedom to explore is a concern, consider training your dog for off-leash walks in safe, enclosed areas.

At our rescue, we never use the retractable leash in the facility or donate them to adopters. Retractable leashes may seem like a convenient option, but the hidden dangers they pose are significant. By choosing safer alternatives, both dog and owner can be prepped for success. You and your dog's well-being are worth it!

Highland Lakes Canine Rescue is a no-kill, non-profit 501c(3) organization with the mission to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome at-risk dogs in the Texas Hill Country.

Learn more about us: https://www.hlcr.org/about