Frequently asked questions
Q: How often do I need to renew the EM collar?
A: It is recommended to get a new collar once a year. Some people are okay with their EM collar for more than a year, but the majority needs a new one every 10-12 months. (including us personally) Every dog is different.
Q: What if a ceramic pipe broke?
A: EM Pipes are made of ceramic clay and are susceptible to breakage. The most common causes of breakage are: hitting against a hard surface (i.e. dog lies down on tile floor or cement), playing with other dogs (other dogs' teeth can easily crack the pipes), using products like essential oils and topical flea & tick preventatives - these cause the clay to break down and they can crack. This is unfortunately beyond our control. Please do your best to avoid situations like this. We put MORE EM pipes that required on each collar so that if some break, it will not reduce the effectiveness. We do not replace 1 or 2 pipes, but if you are concerned or lose more than a few, please email me.
Q: How long does it take until the EM collar works?
A: It can take up to 4 weeks. Keep the ceramics maintained and consider a second repellent for that time. Feel free to check the “Tick talk” section for ideas.
Q: What about breakaway options for bigger dogs?
A: If you take one paw bead off the toggles (it’s a bit fiddly, but you can open the knot), you have your breakaway option. In case of emergency the cord strand will slide through the cord lock stopper and your dog will loose the collar.
Q: What is the difference between cord lock stopper/toggles and the slider knot version?
A: Both are for size adjustment. The slider knot version is a good option for puppies or dogs who like to chew on dangling things like the toggles with paw beads. I developed the slider knot version with help of puppy owners and breeders. It gives you room for growth, but you can tug the adjustment strand away in the braid.
Q: Can my puppy already wear an EM collar?
A: Yes. There is no age limit. I recommend the slider knot option for puppies though.
Q: Does the EM collar repel Mosquitoes?
A: Unfortunately, NO.
Q: Is EM safe for my allergic dog? (including yeast/fungi sensitivities)
A: Yes. If your dog is not allergic to Nylon (Paracord), alloy metals (charms and beads, also the side release buckles) or plastic (cord lock stoppers), you are fine.
Q: Can I use a brush for cleaning the EM collar?
A: Please do so! I have to do that every time. ;-) As long as you are not using soap or other chemicals!
Q: Is it safe to touch my dog when he is wearing the EM collar?
A: Absolutely! EM is a natural product and doesn't contain ANY chemicals or dangerous contents!
Q: Does the EM collar have a scent?
A: No.
Q: What if my dog is playing ruff?
A: You know your dog best. You can take the EM collar off for playtime. It will be no problem if he is not wearing it for an hour a day.
Q: Should my dog wear the EM collar all the time?
A: In the first 4 weeks yes, after that you could take it off at night. For best results, it is recommended to keep the EM collar on all the time during high season.
Q: Can my dog go swimming with the EM collar on?
A: Absolutely! Water is good for the EMs! No chemically treated pool water though!
Q: Is an EM collar safe for a pregnant or nursing dog?
A: Yes.
Q: Can EM collars be used for cats?
A: Yes. There is a breakaway option for cats and very small dogs.
Q: Do you still make regular dog collars and leashes from Paracord?
A: No. I stopped doing that a few years ago. The main focus of this little business was always on EM collars.
