My background with animals is based in riding and training horses. As a result, two things come natural to me: using leather products for working with an animal, and routinely cleaning/conditioning the leather to help it remain serviceable for as long as possible. Leather can be expensive, so needing to replace halters or saddles completely because they were never cared for properly can add up quick. Even if it can be saved with a thorough cleaning and reconditioning, that can take time depending on how much tack you have or the severity of what's wrong. If you've ever experienced the heart drop of walking into the tack room and seeing green/white instead of rich, soft brown, you know what I mean. We use leather leashes for my service dog at home and on the job. We've had the same leashes for several years and kept them in good condition by taking care of the leather a few times a year and if they get wet. It made sense to me, because it was no different than caring for my saddle. It also seemed like a no-brainer that leather would require a little maintenance love.
Naturally, then, it surprised me to learn that dog owners don't do the same for their dog's leather gear. Websites that sell leather leashes, collars, or harnesses do not also sell leather care products, nor do they offer suggestions on caring for the gear. Other handlers I've spoken to didn't understand what I meant when I said I needed to condition my leather leashes as a chore. To that change, here's a quick post on how to care for dog's leather gear!
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My Name is Sally...I have a condition called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. This blog is about my journey training Robbie, a dog who helped me regain independence, confidence, and achieve the impossible in the face of my disability. It continues on with the training of Austin, Robbie's successor. Check Out... - "More than a Dog" was published on a site called The Mighty Categories
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