My view is that if you use a prong collar on a dog, you are sadly missing out on everything. Your relationship with your dog isn't based on love, trust, fellowship. If you want to experience the best of being with a dog, why would you use a tool that causes pain?

As you can see from the photo, it wasn't long after we adopted our big husky shepherd that we switched from a nylon collar to a harness, because it enhanced our relationship.

Once again, the San Francisco SPCA, where we found our wonderful dog, is taking the lead in helping dogs (Remember this video?) and our relationship with them with the launch of this educational campaign, What's Wrong With The Prong:

June 21, 2016 – The San Francisco SPCA has launched a campaign to educate the public about the harm caused by prong collars. Prong collars are designed to inflict pain and discomfort and can cause serious physical, behavioral, and emotional damage.

“We continue to regularly see prong collars on dogs throughout San Francisco,” said Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, co-president at the San Francisco SPCA. “Most owners don’t want to hurt their dogs – they want to do the right thing. There’s a huge need for community education.”

The SF SPCA Veterinary Hospitals treat prong collar injuries, which range from skin irritation and punctures to spinal cord problems. Prongs can easily damage a dog’s delicate neck area. The protective layers of the skin on the under portion of a dog’s neck, where the prongs of the collar are designed to pinch, are 3x thinner than those of human skin.

When I look at an old dog staring out of the window at the doggy loft, I see someone who understands loyalty. The older dog has experienced what it feels like to be a part of a team. They know what it means to be able to depend on someone. I sense they are feeling the loss and it breaks my heart. My compassionate response is to give that old dog all the love and affection they can tolerate, to show them that they weren't wrong to trust us. I feel compelled to step up and show them their loyalty is valued, even more than love.

Mandy

Mandy is an old dog at Muttville who understands loyalty. I took her out for a walk one morning and her focus wasn't on peeing, it was finding a certain someone or their car. We race-walked down the street pausing at every, single, parked car. She determinedly sniffed each door and tire before moving down the row. I asked her repeatedly to please go potty, because it was nicer for us all if she did her business outside, rather than in the doggy loft among the other dogs. She ignored me. She had priorities.

I don't know many cocker spaniels but I do recognize loyalty, and what it means to be part of a team.

Summer offers us more days with fun and games outside with our dogs, but it also brings added risks. A sudden noise can spook a dog into bolting over a fence. An unexpected encounter with another animal on a hiking trail can cause an off leash dog to take off.

Did you know fireworks set off on the 4th of July is the single biggest cause of lost dogs? The crowds and sudden noises, combined with distracted family can bring heartache if your dog suddenly gets away. Are you prepared?

The ASPCA is trying to help keep your furry loved ones safe with ID YOUR PET DAY, and these tips:

· A personalized ID tag is the best way to increase the likelihood your pet returning home. Make sure your pet is fitted with a collar and ID tag that includes your name and phone number.

· Implanted microchips can serve as an important security measure to ensure that a pet is returned home in the case of a lost collar and ID tag.

· Download the ASPCA Pet Safety App to access personalized instructions on how to search for a lost animal in a variety of circumstances: ASPCAapp.org.

When I spend time with old dogs I always seem to come away with a new wisdom or reminded of a forgotten lesson. Recently I sat with a big old girl named Bridgett. Her quiet watchful gaze followed me around the room until I stopped mopping and came over. She had fit her large shepherd body onto a piece of AstroTurf along the far wall. I couldn't tell if she missed laying on grass or wanted a little private space.

Since her eyes were open I decided to go visit. I'm so glad I did. Bridgett lifted her sugar face up and calmly gazed at me. I took that as a green-light and sat down on the floor. We chatted.

Bridgett

When someone compliments me today, on my photo taking of dogs, I think of her. This old dog gave me lessons every day, and the price was love and kibble. A real bargain, wouldn't you say?

When you look at an old dog, what do you see? Do your eyes go straight to any obvious deformities or unusual features, the grey muzzle, or white whiskers?

Is your focus on what they look like, or who they are? When I see an old dog my impression is built from the ground, up.

Starting at their feet, I'm checking out their mood and posture. Does their body language tell me that they want my company, touch, or attention? My first impression begins with their attitude. Like older people, old dogs don't have time to waste on stuff they are not in the mood for, and will not pretend.

Coco Chanel

If they prefer a nap to a walk, you know.

They don’t get much sweeter than Peggy Sue! This cutie-pie is a true blend of breeds with her adorable whiskers and big smile.

Not too big and not too small, Peggy Sue is the perfect size for cuddle time on the couch and walks in the sunshine!

Peggy Sue makes human and doggie friends wherever she goes. How could she not? She is such a love!

Here’s what Peggy Sue’s foster mom has to say about this special girl:

“She lives to snuggle, gets on well with cats and dogs of all sizes, and is playful and goofy. She is so happy and has a great personality. I adore her”.

We think Peggy Sue is between 11-13 years young, weighing about 16 lbs.

Find her at Muttville on Rescue Row in San Francisco