A cone-shaped collar that surround a pet's neck like the elaborate ruff of an Elizabethan noble are called Elizabethan collars or E-collars. They can be purchased or can be made into a variety of sizes to fit any pet. These collars are used to prevent dogs from pawing head or eye wounds or from chewing body injuries.

Unfortunately, this lampshade-like contraption is almost universally disliked by caregiver and companion animal. In spite of the sling and banging dogs tend to do while wearing the collar, the E-collar is indespensable because it keeps the dog from pawing or rubbing at head injuries or biting at body wounds causing further injury.

For an Elizabethan collar to do any good, it must fit properly and be worn at all times-even at night. The exception may be at meal times. Dogs may have trouble eating while wearing an E-collar, so you may need to remove it during meals and supervise his activity.  If it is possible, provide water and food dishes that fit inside the collar so he can eat and drink while wearing it.

The collar fit is important. The cone must be long enough to prevent the dog from reaching around it with a front or hind paw to scratch an eye or head injury. Additionally, the Elizabethan collar must be secured snugly around the upper neck so he can't push the collar back toward his shoulders to get at his head or eyes.

To help ease the annoyance of wearing the E-collar, there are a few things you can do to help. First, you may need to hold the collar while your dog travels up and down stairs. Second, you can help your dog maneuver through doorways by guiding his head through the opening. Third, distract your dog by taking him on long walks (if the injury does not prevent walking). Forth, remember that the Elizabethan collar is serving an important function and he won't have to wear it forever. 

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