One of the significant reasons why Jack Russell owners get their dogs a harness is because they want to protect them from injuries when they pull on the leash. With time, however, you may realize there are bumps where the harness comes in contact with the dog. You may wonder, is it normal for a Jack Russell terrier to have bumps where its harness is?
Quick Navigation
Is It Normal for a Jack Russell Terrier to Have Bumps Where Its Harness Is?
It is not normal for a Jack Russell to have bumps where the harness is. Bumps can indicate a harness that is too tight or rubbing your dog the wrong way.
The location of the bumps depends on the type of harness you are using, with the most common spot being under the dog’s arm.
Apart from bumps, other indications of the harness causing your dog discomfort includes redness that resembles a rush, spots that look raw from rubbing, and hair loss in the affected area. The best way to get rid of this situation is to find a harness that fits or adjusts the one your dog has.
What to Do if Your Jack Russell Has Bumps
After you have noticed the bumps on your dog, you have to put measures in place to ensure that it does not continue to go through that.
Discard the Harness
Keeping in mind that the harness is causing bumps, you have to stop using it. You have to get one that is suitable for your Jack. You have to choose one that does not further irritate the spot with the bumps. When getting a more suitable one, look at:
- Whether it has padding
- If it distributes pressure evenly
- If it can allow for walking many dogs at the same time
Before you get the harness, you should avoid using the old one on your Jack. You can use a collar for walks. This will give the area a break and help it start healing sooner.
Clean the Affected Area
Keeping the affected area clean is of utmost importance. You do not want the region to continue looking chaffed and, in some cases looking bruised. Clean the area with bumps with warm water and a washcloth.
You should avoid using shampoo or other products such as fragrances or harsh products as they may react with the affected area and end up causing more harm than good. When giving it a bath, ensure the shampoo does not get close to the affected area. You should also ensure you avoid using heat near the affected area when you are blow drying it.
Provide Natural Relief
After you have cleaned the affected area, it is vital that you apply something to the area. Some of the natural remedies you can use to soothe the affected area are coconut oil and aloe vera gel. They also form a protective layer that prevents the area from becoming infected.
However, dogs like the taste of coconut oil, and you may find your jack attempting to lick the area you have applied the oil. You may have to put a cone on it to prevent it from licking the coconut oil.
You can also use apple cider vinegar. For this, soak a cotton ball in the solution and dab it on the affected area. Repeat this several times a day for a few days, and you will notice the area getting better in three to four days. If the area does not get better, you have to take your furry friend to the vet for immediate care.
Related Questions
Other similar questions are answered below.
Why Shouldn’t I Use a Harness With My Jack Russell?
You should not use a harness with your Jack if you have been advised by the vet. This can be because of the damage that may have procured before when the harness was not used correctly and resulted in a gait or habit that needs to be corrected before you can go back to using a harness.
Can I Leave My Jack Russell With the Harness on All the Time?
You should not leave your dog with the harness on all the time. This is because it can increase the risk of entanglement and irritations to the skin. It is advisable to only use the harness when you are doing an activity with your dog, such as walking.
What Is the Best Type of Harness for a Jack Russell?
The only way you can know the best type of harness for your Jack is by consulting your vet. Your vet knows about your dog and its temperament and can suggest one suitable for it.
Conclusion
To prevent your furry friend from getting bumps caused by its harness, you should ensure you get a harness that is best suited for it. You should also ensure you clean the affected area so it does not get any infections.
