Is a Retractable Dog Leash a Fit for Your Dog?

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) February 22, 2009 -- February 23, 2009, Cincinnati, OH – Most people don’t know that retractable leashes are important tools in dog training. In fact, many dog owners are confused on the proper uses of this type of leash. According to Steve Appelbaum, the “trainer” of dog trainers from Animal Behavior College and author of “The ABC Practical Guide to Dog Training", a retractable leash is best used as a “proofing” training tool and to give leash freedom to a well-mannered dog.

“It’s important to be aware that not all retractable leashes on the market are the same,” said Appelbaum. “A high-quality leash like the flexi brand of leashes, gives dog owners a reliable, easy to use leash with its patented two button breaking system.”

However, Appelbaum warns that a retractable leash is only safe and effective when used properly. It is especially important for dog owners to pay attention and be alert when using the tool to avoid entanglement with the leash.

Appelbaum shares tips and ideas on when it’s best to use a retractable leash:

• Perfect for PROOFING. Once your dog learns a behavior, be sure to “proof” it during training. Appelbaum warns just because your dog works in the backyard doesn’t mean they will work in a busy area with distractions such as other people or dogs. The leashes are useful for teaching behaviors at a distance. For example, Appelbaum prefers to use a retractable leash to proof the cues “Come” and “Stay.”
• Automatic tool for housebreaking. A retractable leash allows freedom to potty train a puppy outside, especially when allowing them to search the backyard for the perfect spot while the dog owner waits warmly and patiently near a doorway.
• Avoid tangles. A canvas leash can easily tangle but with the technology on the flexi retractable leash two-brake button system, it’s easier for any novice dog trainer to use. This system is also ideal for elderly or physically challenged dog owners, especially those with arthritis, to maintain better control of their dog.

• Dogs LOVE retractable leashes. If nothing else, it’s important to remember that dogs love the freedom to sniff and enjoy themselves. Dogs need time to “just be dogs.” Retractable leashes give that opportunity when used responsibly in open areas.

About Steve Appelbaum
Steve Appelbaum is an expert dog trainer and President of Animal Behavior College, a nationwide school that teaches people to become professional dog trainers. Founded in 1998 by Appelbaum, Animal Behavior College has grown to the largest school of its kind in North America with students in all 50 states and every Canadian province. The school projects over 2800 students in 2009, also offers a Veterinary Assistant program and will launch a Groomer program in 2010.

Appelbaum has been featured as a writer and speaker at the American Boarding Kennel Association's (ABKA) annual conference, Barkleigh's Animal Behavior West conference, Hershey Groom and Train Expo, and the IACP annual conference. He has also been utilized as an expert witness on dog/animal related legal cases.

Other active animal welfare memberships include the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC), Dog Writers Association of America (DWAA) and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Appelbaum is also an honorary friend of the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association (SCVMA). For more information, please visit www.animalbehaviorcollege.com.

About flexi USA

flexi is the inventor and global leader in retractable leashes and dog walking. Dedicated to creating enjoyable dog walks for both people and pets, flexi products allow added freedom and better range of motion. The high quality of the products combined with the pet’s ability to explore makes flexi the perfect leash. Dedicated to enhancing pet ownership through
a complete line of products that encourage regular dog walking, flexi develops retractable leashes designed for the busy, active lifestyle of today’s dog owners. Recommended by Animal Behavior College, trainers nationwide use flexi leashes as a way to promote responsible dog walking. flexi leashes are made in Germany.

For more information about flexi, contact us at (800) 543-4921 or (513)
874-5383, by fax at (513)-874-7269, online at www.flexiusa.com or e-mail
flexiusa@flexiusa.com.

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