Got a question about your pet? Experts from NorthStar VETS 24-hour emergency veterinary center in Robbinsville are ready to answer readers’ questions. Send your questions to askthevet@mercerspace.com.

Q. Is it safe to use an electronic dog training collar? Would you recommend it?

A. Many trainers and behaviorists differ greatly about the usage of electronic training collars for dogs. Personally, I believe when used correctly, remote training collars can be a great training tool.

Let me first start off by saying that there are many instances when you would not want to use an electric collar. You should never use one with a fearful or aggressive dog. That can cause the aggression or fearfulness to become worse. You should not attempt to use the collar without the assistance of a trained professional. Trainers are educated in using these types of equipment and should only employ the least aversive method for your dog. Most dogs that are being trained in basic obedience won’t need this type of collar. However, if you are working with more advanced training methods, such as hunting dogs or off leash recall, this collar has some great benefits.

Personally, I use this collar when my dog is off leash at a dog park. His recall is very good, but on the off chance he doesn’t respond to my verbal command to “come,” I press the button on the handheld remote, and it sends a signal emitting an electronic stimulation to the receiver around his neck. It acts somewhat as an invisible leash.

I urge all pet owners thinking about an electronic collar to first test the sensation on themselves. There are multiple settings, including a vibration setting, so that your dog can have just the right level of stimulation. Keep in mind, the sensation only lasts two seconds. You are to follow up with your verbal command, and then praise.

There are other uses for electronic training collars, such as invisible fence containment. As an alternative to a physical fence for your yard, there are products that provide invisible electronic containment. Thousands of people trust their dogs’ safety every day to this invisible barrier. For many people, the dogs respect the boundary and do not cross the invisible line.

However, this does not stop other animals or people from entering your yard. Unfortunately, I have seen the downside to these products. Dogs have felt the electronic sensation, crossed the barrier and entered the road, where they were unfortunately hit by a car. I would rather spend the money on a physical fence and have the peace of mind to know that my dogs are safe.

The most important thing to remember when deciding on an electronic collar is to consult a professional trainer or behaviorist. These collars are intended for specific training methods only. When used appropriately, electronic training collars can be a great tool for training your best friend!

–Amy Jacobsen, CPDT-KA

Q. Sometimes my dog will be extremely stubborn, sit outside in the backyard and refuse to come inside. Is it unhealthy for her to stay out in the cold weather or snow for too long? Are there any health issues I should look out for?

A. Many dogs enjoy being outside in weather conditions we would not enjoy experiencing. Their coats provide excellent insulation to keep them warm when it is cold and vice versa. While most dogs will come in when they become uncomfortable, during times of extreme cold or heat you should limit your dog’s time outdoors especially if the dog is not visible to you at all times.

–Justin Guinan, DVM, DACVIM

NorthStar VETS is a veterinary emergency trauma and specialty hospital located at 315 Robbinsville-Allentown Road, Robbinsville. To learn more about NorthStar VETS’ full range of services and specialty expertise, call (609) 259-8300 or go online to northstarvets.com.