CA2701800A1 - Locking leash and collar - Google Patents

Abstract

This invention provides an improved leash for dogs with locking capabilities to prevent unauthorized removal of dog therefore reducing pet theft. The leash comprises of a handle portion to be held by the user and collar portion to be worn by the dog. A fixed object is required in order for said leash to be effective such as a tree or post. A desired fit is established by means of several sizing holes along the collar portion that will close the perimeter around the dogs' neck. The collar portion is secured to the dog and handle portion looped around fixed object. A built-in locking cylinder for key insertion is housed directly on the collar which allows for it to be locked or unlocked into position. The collar and leash is one complete unit and made from cut-proof material that is flexible yet resilient to withstand tension.

Description

TITLE OF INVENTION
This invention is a locking leash for pet dogs which will help to reduce pet theft which is on the rise in our society. It comprises of a leash and collar as one complete unit for increased security, whereby the collar can be locked and unlocked into a desired position by means of a key and locking system. Once the collar portion of the locking leash is initiated into the locked position, it cannot be removed without the appropriate key for said locking leash.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Problems that have arisen from similar inventions have been that there has not been a sufficient, safe or humane way to secure a pet when left unattended. There must be a restraining device that is comfortable for the animal and whereby the dog cannot slide out of it or the device becoming unhinged or breaking in some manner. It must be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the dog pulling against it. It also must be cost efficient and easy to use. It must consist of non-toxic materials. It must not have any sharp or exposed edges that could harm the animal, owner or passersby in this particular case. The present invention solves the above problems in the following ways:
The locking leash is made of non-toxic materials and has safe, smooth edges, much like leashes and collars that are used for pets today. It comprises of a leash and uninterrupted collar that will compliment pets' regular collar and leash currently available for sale in large commercial pet stores. The casing material is made out of hard plastic and is rust-resistant which will allow the product to have a longer life in wet or snowy conditions. The present invention also comprises of a key that coordinates with a locking system that is built directly on the collar portion. It will help to reduce the number of pet thefts and give owners the dependability to consistently enjoy worry-free walks with their dogs wherever they may choose to stop along the way.
Unfortunately, thousands of dogs go missing or are stolen each week across the country.
According to statistics from the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, 50%
of the 171,000 animals taken in by shelters countrywide in 2007 were euthanized. Many of these dogs had been stolen from loving homes and then simply discarded by thieves. These dogs are stolen from homes and cars (perhaps during a burglary), from yards or when left unattended in public places.
Pets are frequently left in their owners vehicles for fear that they would be stolen otherwise and owners feel that they have no other option in order to keep their pets safe.
In very hot weather however, doing this can be fatal for the dog.

Leaving a window in the vehicle partially down does not make a significant enough difference to the inside temperature of the car that the animal has been left in. Depending on the outside temperature, the location of the vehicle and time of day; the temperature inside the vehicle can reach 3-4 times hotter than that of the temperature outside. For example, if the outside temperature is 25 degrees Celsius, the vehicle temperature could easily escalate to 50 degrees in less than 20 minutes. At that temperature, it can be detrimental to the health of the animal and can result in brain damage and/or death. Leaving a dog (or any animal) in a vehicle at any time is currently illegal in the state of California in the United States under the criminal code, Senate Bill 1806 and I strongly believe that this law will be implemented in Canada in the near future also.
The present invention will assist in encouraging dog owners who frequently travel by car with their pets to comfortably secure their dogs outside their vehicle under a shady tree instead of the alternative. It will also help to reduce the number of dogs that suffer from dehydration, suffocation or even death as a result of being left inside a vehicle for even just a short period of time.
The locking leash will provide users with the physical tools needed to safely and securely lock up their dog while both a visual deterrent and physical prevention method is present. It should be noted that the stationary object chosen by users must be completely closed off at the top to not stray from the inventions purpose or effectiveness. Once the locking leash is engaged into the locked position, it will be virtually impossible to remove from either the dog or object. In order to avert failure, it is recommended that the corresponding key be kept safe and apart from locking leash when in use.
Due diligence should be taken with the safety and whereabouts of said keys for security purposes.
The locking leash should be implemented as suggested and not attached to any object that could bend or move in any way or in a case where the length of leash be compromised and they are attaching their dog near a busy street. Users should take precautions when securing any of the following:
1. An aggressive dog 2. A fearful dog 3. A bitch in heat 4. A very elderly dog 5. An anti-social dog 6. A very young dog under 4 months old It is highly likely that users of the present invention will be using the locking leash in high pedestrian-traffic areas so they should be mindful of loud noises, distractions and surroundings and how this might affect their dog's emotional state and behaviour. It is for these reasons that I would recommend the locking leash to those who, on occasion currently feel confident leaving their dogs restrained yet unattended in their absence. It should be noted that laws, by-laws and city licensing applies to all users of said invention and are responsible for their pets at all times.
The locking leash will introduce both a visual and physical deterrent from would-be pet thieves. It is a fully functional leash and collar and can be used as such without straying from the inventions purpose. However, dog owners commonly choose a collar and leash based on their dogs' individual needs such as size, temperament and energy level while considering its functionality, design, material and colour.
Each of the embodiments described above relates to the internal workings of the locking leash made from a series of cables fabricated of steel and then covered by means of a protective sheath made of hard plastic for optimum comfort, durability and longevity of the product. The locking leash is no more than 6 feet in length from the handle portion to the collar portion. Sizing holes are then provided along the collar portion that will penetrate through the sheath and steel approximately 3/%'s as shown in FIG. 4 that allow for sizing capabilities while maintaining its quality cut-proof material. Figure 2 illustrates the entire present invention. It also shows where the immoveable object is placed in order for invention to not lose its effectiveness. According to figure 2 - 4, this is how the collar portion of the locking leash is formed once it is secured around immoveable object at 3. When a desired fit is established around the animals' neck as demonstrated by Figure 3, it can then be locked into place by inserting the correct key into 3 and turning to the right. Turning the key to the left, as per most locking systems, would put it into an unlocked position. When in the unlocked position, it can be effortlessly removed from the dogs' neck by loosening the collar. When the collar is in the unlocked position, the collar can tighten and loosen easily by sliding it closer (tighter) or further away (looser).

Figure 2 in particular 4 shows the portion of the leash that forms the collar, shows there is no excess cable that could interfere with the inventions purpose and subsequently tucked into the belt loop at 2. The length of the leash when correctly in use is dependent on the circumference of the immoveable object and the neck size of the dog which may also limit the dogs' movement and orientation.

It should be noted that in an emergency, the locking leash can be removed with a heavy cutting tool. For example, if the animal were being deprived of its basic needs such as food, water or shelter; it is by virtue of that that the locking leash can be removed.
However, it must then be deemed unusable and be expended immediately.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a locking leash that allows users to secure their dogs by means of a collar that secures around the dogs' neck and a leash that secures around an immoveable object. At one end of the leash is the handle portion to be held by users and at the other end is an adjustable collar portion with built-in locking capabilities to accommodate all breeds and sizes of dogs. In order to be effective, the collar portion must be adjusted to fit snugly around the dogs' neck in order for it to not slip over the dogs' ears. The locking leash is first placed around immoveable object of reasonable size and circumference such as a large tree, post or bicycle rack.
The immoveable object must be closed off at both ends in order for present invention to be effective. The collar portion is then placed through the handle portion as demonstrated in more detail in Figure 2 and then attached snugly around the animals' neck and engaged into the locked position by means of a key.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Leashes and collars have long been known and widely used to help exercise and control dogs since they (canis lupus familiaris), were domesticated some 10 000 years ago. Various types of collars and leashes have been used and adapted over time. The term "leash" is commonly used in the trade because it helps to control or lead domesticated dogs.
According to Webster's dictionary, a "leash" is defined as follows:
Leash: n. a chain, rope, or strap attached to the collar or harness of an animal, especially a dog, and used to lead it or hold it in check.
1. Control or restraint: emotions kept in leash.
2.
a. A set of three animals, such as hounds.
b. A set of three.

Irv, leashed, leashing, leashes. To restrain with or as if with a leash.
Many different types of pet leashes have achieved considerable popularity and commercial success, although there is a continuing need for improvement. Today, more and more people are acquiring pets for companionship and this number continues to grow at a staggering rate. The pet industry is booming and according to Statistics Canada, Canadians currently own a total of eight million dogs and cats, 3.5 million of those pets are dogs and about half of all households have at least one pet.
Pet owners are more concerned as ever about their pets' health and welfare which can be seen by the increase of professional dog walkers, pet sitters, raw food diet companies and pet clothing lines to name a few. Dogs in particular, are typically included in the daily activities with their owners. Although it is still not common practise, some companies allow pets in the workplace. However, due to health and safety regulations of most establishments, dogs (and other pets) are not permitted inside, putting their owners in a difficult position. They need to decide whether to forego their patronage and/or purchase, or leave their pets unattended outside leaving them at the risk of theft. The present invention will prevent any unauthorized removal of the animal, therefore reducing the number of stolen pets.
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes and are enjoyed by almost everyone; young and old, city dwellers or country lovers in many countries around the world. Breeds as large as the Great Dane or as tiny as the Chihuahua all enjoy and require daily outdoor activity such as walking with their owner(s) on the end of a leash. Although a regular leash is necessary to guide and control dogs on an outing, it does not provide a securing method by which the dog is protected against removal by unauthorized persons. Many dog owners enjoy bringing their dogs along while they run errands however, this often means that for a brief period, the dog must remain tied- up and unattended outside a shop or business. As more and more people acquire dogs and include them in their daily activities, the need arises for a method that will keep them safe, secure and no longer a target to would-be pet thieves. With many new dog owners choosing to adopt their companions from local animal shelters, they often develop a significant bond and together with said invention, these dogs will never be abandoned or parted from their owners again. If any dog is left unattended for too long without the present invention, they remain the target for animal theft, which is, unfortunately on the rise in our society. If this were to happen, the emotional suffering of both dog and owner would be unimaginable and devastating. Dogs that are stolen are used for any of the following reasons:
breeding, drugs, ransom, research, bribery, protection, dog fighting and/or guarding of an illegal operation.
The present invention is extremely user-friendly and involves a simple 3-step process as follows in order to engage in its purposeful capacity:
1. Place locking leash around immoveable object of any size not exceeding length of leash.
2. Loop collar through handle in order for it to become taught and secure around object.
3. Find desired collar size around dogs' neck and lock into place using the corresponding key The locking leash shall be reasonable in cost and can be used on a dog of any size, by anyone, anywhere in the world. It shall be as easy to use for anyone who has locked a door to a house or apartment or locked up their bike using a cable lock.
A similar, but now expired patent filed in Canada in 1983 is as follows:
(11) CA 1171294 Koronkiewicz, Henry L.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention will drastically reduce the number of pet thefts while giving owners peace of mind. Pets, typically dogs that are left unattended outside establishments while their owners go inside are put at an immediate risk of theft. Dog owners, professional dog-walkers or pet-sitters will now be able to walk with their companions knowing they can safely secure them on occasion.
Referring more particularly to FIG. 6, this includes a series of cables made from tempered steel which runs throughout the entire length of the interior of the locking leash and is extremely resistant to being cut with standard tools throughout all areas. More specifically, once the locking leash is engaged into a locked position, it is virtually impossible to cut through or undo. Due to its plastic outer casing, it is extremely water resistant allowing users to use it as often as required. The locking leash comprises of a 6 foot leash where the opposite end to the handle is the collar portion.
The collar portion of the leash is locked to a desired size by means of a lock system built directly on the collar portion. The collar portion will comprise of a series of sizing holes that can be tightened or loosened to eventually close the gap around the dog's neck. Once a snug fit is established, the collar portion is then locked into place and shall not be removable until the correct key is implemented to release the animal and said locking leash. FIG. 2 shows the handle portion of the leash which is made out of a softened material over the plastic casing 1 such as rubber or similar for extra comfort and grip.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Advantages and unique features of the present invention will be described in greater detail according to the preferred embodiment in which:
FIG. 1 shows a front plan view of a dog secured to an immoveable object; in this case a large tree is chosen to demonstrate the invention in use; the locking leash and collar according to one embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a view of entire locking leash and collar in the preferred design which clearly indicates where immoveable object should be positioned in relation to the locking leash for it to be effective.
FIG. 3 is a side enlarged view of the preferred embodiment of the collar portion of locking leash according to alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention shown in the locked position.
FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of collar portion as shown in the unlocked position.
FIG. 5 demonstrates the internal workings of lock on the collar portion of locking leash as demonstrated in locked position A and unlocked position B.

FIG. 6 is a front enlarged view of a slightly different design of collar portion only as the leash portion remains the same with both collar designs while not straying from the original inventions purpose and according to the preferred embodiment for which I wish to claim.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The locking leash of the present invention is very easy to use and work with, yet extremely efficient against pet theft which might otherwise be accomplished by either unclipping the leash from the collar or untying the leash. It is also possible that the use of a sharp knife or cutting tool could result in severing the leash completely and absconding with the animal. Ordinary leashes available today are typically made with weak fibres such as cotton canvas, hand-woven or braided fabrics which can be easily cut through. With reference to the drawings, in particular to FIG. 1 which shows the present invention as it is intended to be used. It comprises of a collar portion 1 and leash portion 2 as one complete unit, preferably made from steel cables on the interior covered by a hard plastic sheath. The materials used to construct this would be quite similar to that of a bicycle cable lock.
Although durable and resistant, these materials will be somewhat less flexible than ordinary leashes used today. The particular arrangement of the present invention has the benefit of opening as big as the length of the leash and as small as the last hole on the collar portion.
The first hole on the collar portion shall be approximately 6 inches from the end of collar portion and can be used to fit the smallest of dogs with an average neck size of 6"to 12" or the largest of dogs with a neck size of 26"
to 32" while being just as effective for small and large dogs including all those in between. The locking leash, specifically the collar portion can be tightened or loosened to a particular proportion and then secured at a chosen size and subsequently locked. This ensures that when in use the collar portion will not tighten accidently and become a strangling hazard as the animal moves around.
In order to secure the leash with respect to animal, it should be noted that the collar portion, as shown in FIG.
3 should be in the locked position and must be snug enough around the dogs' neck so as not to slip off or be removable over the dog's ears. Each of the sizing holes throughout the collar portion as shown in detail in FIG. 4 are adapted to line up with a corresponding hole on the opposite side of the collar as indicated on FIG.
3 - 3 and eventually secured by being locked as indicated by FIG. 4 in the key housing 5 where the key is inserted into the key hole opening 3.
In summary, the present invention provides an uninterrupted leash and collar containing locking capabilities which will help to prevent the unlawful removal of pets, in particular dogs. It can also be used as a regular leash and collar in order to guide and exercise dogs with an added useful tool.

The following information regarding the internal workings of the lock system as shown in Figure 5 is simply for further explanation in order to understand the present invention as a whole. I acknowledge that keys and locks have already been widely used for several decades and therefore it should be noted that I do not wish to claim the key or lock component of the present invention. In Figure 5 there is a pin tumbler as it is called and commonly used in cylinder locks. There is an outer casing in this particular type of lock with a cylindrical hole where the plug is housed. In order to open the lock the key as shown in FIG 5 - 2A and 2B
must be inserted in order for the plug to rotate. The plug has a straight-shaped slot known as the keyhole at one end to allow the key to enter the plug as shown in A; the other end has a lever which activates a mechanism to retract a locking bolt. This is shown more broadly FIG.4 - 3. The keyhole often has protruding ledges which serve to prevent the key pins from falling into the plug and to make the lock more resistant. A
series of holes, typically 5 or 6 of them, as shown more specifically in FIG.
5 - 3A and 3B, are drilled vertically into the plug. These holes contain key pins of various lengths that are rounded to permit the key to slide over them easily. Above each key pin is a corresponding set of driver pins as shown in FIG. 5 - IA and 1 B which are spring-loaded. The outer casing has several vertical shafts, which hold the spring-loaded pins.
When the plug and outer casing are assembled, the pins are pushed down into the plug by the springs. The point where the plug and cylinder meet is called the shear point. With a key properly cut and inserted into the groove as demonstrated being unlocked in FIG. 5 - B. On the end of the plug, the pins will rise causing them to align exactly at the shear point. This allows the plug to rotate thereby opening the lock. When the key is not in the lock, the pins straddle the shear point, preventing the plug from rotating. The holes above the cylinder contain springs and two sets of pins, one atop the other. In order for the cylinder to be turned, which would retract the deadbolt, locking and unlocking the collar, a key must be used. This key has a series of raised teeth, each one corresponding to a tumbler. When the key is inserted into the face of the lock, the raised teeth push the pins a certain distance upward. There are two pins one atop of the other, making up the tumbler. The top pin must be raised clear above the cylinder, while the bottom pin must be raised just short of leaving the cylinder. Without the pins obstructing the cylinder because they have been properly aligned, turning the key will turn the cylinder and open the lock. If the lock were open, inserting the key and turning it the other direction would lock it. Cylinder locks are designed so that one key, and one key only, can rotate them, thus unlocking or locking the collar. Inside a cylinder, there are several pairs of pins, along with tumblers. Each pin is of a different height. Each pair of pins rests in a shaft, which goes through the center of the cylinder and into the area around it. Very small springs are placed at the top of each shaft. These springs hold the pins in their respective placements. The bottom pins in each pair rest entirely inside the plug when no key is present, and the upper pin in each pair sits halfway inside the plug, and halfway outside of it. This placement of the upper pin effectively secures the cylinder to the surrounding housing, preventing it from rotating. This means the collar is in the locked position.

Keys have notches and are made to line up with the pins and push each pin to a certain predetermined height.
Inserting the correct key into the lock will cause the notches on the key to push the pins up to the exact height that will cause the upper pins to be completely in the housing of the cylinder, and the lower pins to be completely in the surrounding area. This leaves a clean line between the pins, called a "shear line." Once the shear line is cleared, the cylinder is able to rotate, releasing a spring which shoots the tang forward, thus unlocking the collar. Keys that are inserted into the lock that do not have the correct pattern of notches will not push the pins to the correct height to clear the shear line which means that it will not unlock. These pins will still be sitting partially in the housing and partially in the cylinder.
If an incorrect key were to be inserted, it will not push the pins therefore it will not be able to rotate but may still be able to be inserted but it will not rotate, therefore not allowing the release of lock or collar.
FIG. 6 -7 describes an "anchor" clip used in conjunction with harness-wearing dogs. A harness is a common term in the trade to describe an alternative for leash attachment.
Harness usage is growing in popularity among many pet owners in particular those with smaller breed dogs.
It is commonly worn in conjunction with a collar and or used on its own with a leash. While a collar only encircles the neck, harnesses have a loop that surrounds the torso as well with connecting straps between them for reinforcement.
The design of a harness allows for the distribution of force which may prevent choking and a lower chance of the dog slipping out than may be possible with just the use of a collar. It also helps to reduce the stress placed on a small dog's neck while walking at the end of a leash.

Claims (31)

1. The locking leash of the present invention is designed with substantial adjustability and comfort while remaining highly effective for restraining and securing and ultimately the prevention of pet theft as shown in figure 1.

2. Figure 2 is a view solely of the present invention while excluding the animal and immoveable object as needed in order for invention to serve its purpose.

3. Figure 3, shows an enlarged view of the collar portion of the locking leash shown in the locked position.

4. Figure 3- 3, 4 and 13 indicates a belt-like loop for any excess collar to easily slide underneath.

5. Figure 3 also demonstrates that once the locking leash is locked, it cannot come undone due to the interference of the locking mechanism as demonstrated in 2.

6. Figure 3 - 10 indicates the padding on the inside of the collar portion of the locking leash made from a softened material such as suede for maximum comfort while worn around the dogs' neck. This is made to fit over hard plastic sheath and will not interfere of the present inventions cut-proof capacity.

7. FIG. 3 illustrates the embodiment of the present invention in the locked position. The built-in lock 1A and the keyhole 1 allows the collar to connect to the coordinating sizing holes and the lug 2 to be initiated when locked into place. The lug 2 penetrates through both parts of the collar together. Depending on the desired size required, all three belt loops as shown in 3, 4 and 13 may be used which will allow any excess collar to slide and remain neatly underneath. As shown in FIG. 3 - 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 11, these represent the sizing holes by which the locking leash accommodates different sized dogs while having the same efficiency and strength throughout. The leash portion at 12 of the present invention that extends to the handle portion as shown in FIG. 2 - 1 and 5.

8. Figure 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the collar portion of the locking leash in an unlocked position.

9. Figure 4 clearly illustrates that once in a locked position, the lug portion 4 remains contained within the housing 5 while 7 indicates where the protruding lug sits while by introducing a standard key in the key hole 3 that would initiate the lug to lock and unlock the collar.

10. Figure 4 as indicated at 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 are the sizing holes contained within the collar portion of the locking leash that allow for the adaptability to accommodate the largest and smallest of dogs. More specifically 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 are the sizing holes whereby once the desired fit is established and holes are matched up to coordinating holes onto itself further down the collar portion 3, 4 and 5 are then locked using the lock of the embodiment as contained in 5.

11. A built-in combination lock which is a type of lock in which a sequence of numbers directly interact with a locking mechanism and is used in order to open a lock. An adaptation to present invention which describes a lock requiring a key in order to lock and unlock the collar portion within leashes for pets shall be considered part of the embodiment I wish to claim.

12. Figure 4 - 13 indicates the key and lock housing as pertaining to the attachment to collar portion.

13. Figure 4 - 14 indicates the series of steel cables running the entire length of locking leash and collar portion.

14. The locking leash is small, convenient and durable.

15. In order to reduce points of weakness, the design of the present invention is an uninterrupted leash and collar as seen in full detail in Figure 2.

16. The locking leash shall be light weird but durable and have the adaptability of being used on and being effective still on all sized dogs.

17. Figure 5 shows the specific internal workings of lock as can be seen in Figure 4 - 5.

18. The lock device as shown generally in FIG. 5 is designed to sit directly onto the outside of the collar portion shown more specifically in FIGS. 4 - 5 and FIG. 3 - 3 so as to not interfere with user's accessibility or the animals 'comfort allowing the lock to be easily located by the user and prevents obstruction while allowing it to move freely around the animals' neck at the same time the sizing of the collar remains in the locked position.

19. FIG. 5-A - 1, 2, 3, and 4 shows the lock and location where the key is inserted and B - 1, 2, 3 and 4 as the key unlocks it.

20. Figure 6 demonstrates a different style of collar portion of locking leash as the handle portion remains the same compared to FIGS. 2, 3 and 4 in particular the collar portion 3, as it can be seen with a slightly different lock system.

21. FIG. 6 - 1A indicates a plastic stopper and smoothed, rounded edge piece so there is no danger of the cable (collar) slipping inside the lock as demonstrated more specifically in 2.

22. FIG. 6 - 2 shows the cable on the interior of lock portion of collar portion

23. FIG. 6- 2 is permanently attached to collar portion of locking leash and cannot be removed which shall limit any weakness in this particular design.

24. FIG 6 - 3 indicates the collar portion of the preferred embodiment demonstrating its sizing capabilities without the need for holes of any kind required as original design would as seen in FIG 4.

25. FIG. 6 - 4 indicates the key hole where users lock the collar into place by inserting correct key into the key hole and turning to the right. Once desired fit is established and collar is locked this will automatically tighten and grip against internal cables therefore locking cable into place. To release once again to allow 1 to move out and in freely the key would simply be turned towards the left which will loosen the grip on the internal cables subsequently loosen collar portion and removed once wide enough to slip over the dog's head;

26. FIG. 6 - 5 indicates metal locking portion and key housing

27. FIG. 6 - 6 indicates the portion in which users pull towards them in order to tighten the cable (collar) and eventually close the gap around dogs' neck while it extends to the handle portion of the present invention as shown in FIG. 2 - 1.

28. FIG. 6 - 6 would be where users will hold cable while holding lock system at 2 between fingers and thumb and gliding cable towards them which will tighten the cable (collar) therefore reducing the size of the collar which shall inevitably close the gap around the animals neck.

29. Users can release collar of FIG. 6 by inserting key into keyhole at 4 and turning it to the left while holding collar portion as indicated by 3 and pulling lock portion as indicated by 2 the opposite direction thereby allowing a bigger gap around animals' neck and releasing it when there is a big enough gap to do so and can easily be slipped over dogs neck.

30. Once desired fit is established, FIG 6 - 7 indicates a built-in hard plastic "anchor" clip which is an optional method by which users can use this to clip locking leash onto dog's regular collar or harness for increased resistance. This will place pressure on the substantially sturdy locking leash portion rather than on the collar portion disenable the pet to manoeuvre out of it as a secondary means of security. This clip is especially useful for very small dogs who would normally wear a harness instead of a collar or in addition to a collar.
It can be easily clipped to any part of the harness forcing any pressure such as pulling or jumping off the collar and neck and onto the harness. The user-friendly capacity of present invention will therefore not exclude harness-wearing dogs.

31. The length of the locking leash shall be adaptable to secure dogs on their owners' property with a longer leash configuration of up to 30 feet with same locking capability and design.

Although various preferred embodiments of the invention have been described herein in connection with a preferred embodiment, it should be understood that various modifications, additions and alterations may be made to the invention by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.