Can my dog be allergic to metal and how can I find a collar w/o metal?

My dog gets a terrible itchy, red and raw rash every time we put his collar on for more than a day. He is an Italian Greyhound and they are known for sensitive and thin skin. He has a special "IG" collar that is fleece lined, but the metal rings for the license tag and for sizing cause a major rash. Does anyone know of collars that do not have any metal? I feel nervous to leave him w/o his collar all the time because then he never has on his license. We have another IG and she does not have any problems like this. The vet does not have any help other than a powder to calm the rash (which only works a little).

Can my dog be allergic to metal and how can I find a collar w/o metal?
You may have to make your own collars or have them made for you since the rings on collars are necessary for safely attaching leashes.





For the tags, though, you can put them in something like this:





http://www.thedogwearcollection.com/acce...





If you are handy, you can make a fabric pouch with a velcro closure that attaches directly to the collar. Slide the tags inside.





I would also remove the collar except for when he is outside with you. The rubbing of the collar might be aggravating the rash. If you have him micro chipped that should be id enough if he manages to get out.
Reply:You sure she isn't allergic to the fleece lining or the detergent you wash the collar in??????????
Reply:There are a wide variety of collars available that have sturdy plastic clip closures, with the only metal being the loop for the nametag. I doubt that you can get one with the loop, but you can certainly snip it off with a sturdy set of wirecutters. As far as identification, petco.com and petsmart.com offer embroidery services for collars so that you can get your pet's name and your phone number embroidered onto the collar, thus avoiding metal. He may very well be allergic to it, just keep a close eye on him like you've been doing. Good luck!





Edit: Expounding on the embroidery idea...perhaps you could get someone to embroider his Rabies tag number on the collar as well (tiny though, for his thin little neck)? Most counties will waive your fee if you can provide evidence of a current rabies shot, however.
Reply:You could try a rope collar for the dog, although I dont know about the tag part. Maybe you could trying to go to "Petco"


and ask them there. They're very friendly and I'm sure they can find something with out metal. Also you could try asking for a specially made collar in case they dont have any. Those all our choices and you dont have to listen to them but I hope you figure out your problem with the dog. Good Luck! =+)
Reply:get him microchipped. It's $20 (in DE) and saves many lives.
Reply:Yes, dogs can be allergic to metal.


PetSmart and Pet Supplies Plus carry collars that all are leather, including the closure. If your local store does not have these, they may be able to order them.
Reply:I have seen the type of collar you are looking for at Pets-mart. It is a nylon strap with a ballistic nylon clasp. They look a lot like the straps on grocery carts that are to be used like seat belts on children. Just have some patience and look around, I'm sure they are available. You may have to remove a metal "D" ring and use something like a piece of parachute shroud line or leather shoe lace to attach the license.





I will go one step farther if you don't mind listening. While an allergy to metal is possible I would think it far more likely the allergy is to shampoo, soap or laundry detergent. I think I would change that stuff around a bit before I went very far out of my way looking for a new collar.





Good luck, you'll whip this. It isn't brain surgery or rocket science.