Before I adopted Luna, I didn’t know much about what I really needed to raise a dog. Sure, I made a checklist of necessary items that I needed to buy before I brought her home, but picking up these items consisted of me going to local pet stores and our nearby Walmart. I didn’t present myself with many options which made it easy to pick up the first thing I found. But, this also meant a lot of the essential items I “invested” in were basically crap.
Luna’s very first collar, harness, and leash were all poorly made and uncomfortable to use. This initial set allowed us to bring her home safe and sound, but after only a few weeks of using them I knew something needed to change.
I started hunting for another “cheap”, but yet better collar and leash option than what I already had. I spent a lot of time and money trying to find the perfect solution. When one would fail or start to show signs of wear, I would go off to find another option that was either “on clearance” or “a good price” to give it a try. I didn’t realize that I was actually wasting money by saving a few bucks on a far inferior product.
Since these collars were as cheaply made as they cost, I found myself replacing them fairly often. Easily I spent more money on the 5-6 collars, I bought for Luna in her first year and half than if I had invested in a high quality one from the get go.
I was starting to figure this out and began looking into some higher quality options, but was determined to still find something affordable. It wasn’t until I attended the Global Pet Expo in 2014 that I really found what I was looking for.
I stumbled across a booth that caught my eye because of their brightly colored collars and leashes. As I approached I noticed that each one also had reflective stripping and since many of our walks are after dark, I decided to see what the brand was all about. I didn’t know it at the time, but I was stumbling onto what would become my favorite pet brand ever.
Once I first put an Alcott collar on Luna and we switched to use their amazing (PADDED HANDLE!!) leashes, I never looked back. It didn’t hurt that their price point for collars was $12-14 and $17-20 for leashes either!.
Since this was such a learning experience for me, I want to share my solution. I’m going to be upfront and honest – this post is sponsored by Alcott. But, even if they hadn’t agreed to provide a few lucky readers with some awesome giveaway prizes (Not that they would have refused, because no one can resist Luna.), I would have still written about them.
Because they are just that awesome.
I love these leashes so much that my boyfriend and I severely embarrassed ourselves a few months ago when we saw another couple using the EXACT SAME bright green Alcott collar and leash as we were using for Luna. We were so pumped that we had to say something! The other couple thought we were a little too excited about dog collars and slowly walked away…
Not only do I think these beauties are pretty, but they actually work. For the past 2 years, I have been using the same collar and leash for Luna. I only just recently switched to a new (but yet still the exact same) Alcott collar and leash set. There wasn’t really a need for it as they are still totally functional and really just needed a good wash, but I couldn’t turn down a new shiny set! I’ll still be hanging on to the old ones as backups because they still have plenty of miles left!
If you want to now more about why I love Alcott collar and leashes, be sure to check out these previous posts:
Alcott Sleeping Bag & Outdoor Gear
Dog Accessories from Alcott
Alcott Adventure Collar & Leashes
So after all of that I have learned that some things are worth investing in. One of those things absolutely is a collar and leash. Here’s why:
- Buying 5 cheap collars over a year will cost you more than buying one that will last you three!
- You will use your dog’s collar and leash every. Single. day. Anything that gets that much wear and tear is worth putting a few more bucks into.
- Collars (with identification tags) are one of the best forms of ID for your dog and can be there to help in the event that your pet gets lost or separated from you. You want something that will be there when you need it and not fall apart.
- Quality collars and leashes come with perks – reflective striping, padded handles, better colors and patterns, more versatile uses, etc.
I know you’re thinking… “You did say there was going to be a giveaway, right?”
Yes, yes, and YES!
But first I just to clarify one thing – I also LOVE and endorse Lupine Pet. They hands down have one of the best warranties on the market and have fabulous holiday themed patterns. Even if your dog chews through one of their leashes or collars, they’ve got you covered. I keep a backup Lupine leash in my car at all times and the pups will definitely be wearing their festive Lupine collars again this holiday season. Their prices are also spot on. If you want a cuter look, definitely go and check them out!
Okay AND NOW for the giveaway…
THREE lucky Beagles & Bargains readers will receive an Alcott Collar & Leash Set!
USA residents are eligible to enter via the Rafflecopter below. Entries must be submitted by 11:59 PM EST on Sunday, May 15, 2016. The winners will be notified via email within 48 hours of the giveaway closing and will have 48 hours to respond and claim his or her prize. Winners will be able to choose the collar and leash size and color of their choice.
What do you love about Alcott collar & leashes? What color do you think your pup would look best in?
Disclaimer: I received free product from Alcott to review. I received no other compensation or additional benefits for mentioning the products in this post. The opinions and ideas in this post are my own and are uninfluenced by any other person or business. Alcott is responsible for all giveaway prizes including shipping.
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