DIY E-Collar

Elizabethan collars, also called E-collars, are used in veterinary medicine to keep dogs from licking or scratching at wounded or sore areas. The collar surrounds the dog's head, making it impossible for the dog to lick its body. E-collars also protect the head, making it impossible for the dog's claws to reach the face, ears or neck. In an emergency situation or during odd hours, it may not be possible to purchase a commercially manufactured E-collar, facilitating the need to create your own, homemade Elizabethan collar to protect your dog's health and well-being.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Plastic sheeting
  • Marker
  • Utility knife
  • Hole punch
  • Shoelace
  • Sandpaper
  • Glue
  • Felt
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the circumference of your dog's neck.

    • 2

      Lay a piece of rigid, semi-transparent plastic sheeting on your work surface.

    • 3

      Draw a semi-circle in the center of the plastic sheeting. The semi-circle should be equal in length to your dog's neck circumference plus 1 inch.

    • 4

      Draw a line extending from one edge of the convex side of the semi-circle extending out to a distance equal in length to half of your dog's neck circumference. Do the same for the other edge of the semi-circle.

    • 5

      Connect the two lines with another, larger semi-circle. You've now drawn a large, semi-circular wedge shape, which forms the basis of the E-collar.

    • 6

      Cut out the e-collar using a utility knife.

    • 7

      Measure approximately 2 inches into the body of the Elizabethan collar, starting at the smaller semi-circle. Measure and mark off 3-inch intervals along the perimeter of the collar at the 2-inch mark.

    • 8

      Cut a 1-inch long slit at each mark along the edge of the collar. These slits allow you to thread your dog's collar through the E-collar for a secure fit.

    • 9

      Punch an equal number of holes on the longer, linear sides of the collar, about ½ inch from the edge. Thread a shoelace or piece of rope through these holes to close the E-collar after placing it on your dog.

    • 10

      Sand down any rough edges. If desired, glue a piece of felt over the semi-circular edges of the collar to protect your dog's skin.