Last Updated on November 1, 2023 by Fumipets
The Laughter and Dilemma: A Dog’s Struggle with the Cone of Shame
Dogs and plastic cones, commonly known as the “Cone of Shame,” don’t typically make for a happy pair. However, in a recent viral video, golden retriever Loui showcased an extra layer of struggle when dealing with this peculiar accessory.
The Cone Chronicles
In a TikTok video uploaded by user vane_kit on October 2, the world was introduced to Loui, a lovable golden retriever, facing off against the infamous cone. The video documented Loui’s comical escapades as he grappled with the cone’s inconveniences.
The adventure began with Loui getting snagged on a door, leaving him in an amusing predicament. With a little assistance from his human, he was freed, only to encounter another hurdle shortly after. Loui’s owner, baffled by his dog’s peculiar behavior, remarked, “He keeps getting stuck, and he just stands there. He doesn’t move.” The video’s caption aptly summed up Loui’s feelings, stating, “Loui is just not a big fan of this ugly device.”
Thankfully, Loui’s ordeal with the plastic cone was short-lived, as he was later spotted sporting a more comfortable foam donut collar. The reason behind Loui’s need for the cone or foam collar remained a mystery.
Viral Sensation
The TikTok video featuring Loui’s Cone of Shame antics quickly gained traction, amassing over 3 million views and approximately 396,400 likes. It seems that Loui’s relatable struggle resonated with dog lovers worldwide.
An Expert’s Perspective
Joe Nutkins, a dog training instructor and co-director at Dog Training for Essex and Suffolk, shed light on why dogs like Loui often detest wearing the cone. “The majority of dogs are not happy wearing the ‘cone of shame,’ and it’s entirely understandable,” Nutkins explained.
He elaborated on the discomfort that cones can cause, highlighting their bulkiness, added weight, and the plastic scent near the dog’s nose. Moreover, cones limit a dog’s vision and their ability to engage in typical activities, such as eating, drinking, and playing with toys.
Nutkins also pointed out that the first experience of wearing a cone, usually following surgery or during illness, can be particularly distressing for dogs. To make this transition smoother, he recommended gradually introducing your dog to a cone in short, positive sessions and teaching them how to take treats while wearing it.
Alternative Solutions
Fortunately, there are alternatives to the traditional plastic cone, such as inflatable versions that don’t obstruct a dog’s face but still prevent them from reaching stitches or sensitive areas.
Insights from the Online Canine Community
The TikTok video sparked a discussion among dog owners who shared their own experiences with cones. Many recommended inflatable collars as a more comfortable option. Others recounted their dogs’ amusing or seemingly deliberate responses to wearing the cone.
For instance, TikTok user Carolyn Mannarelli shared, “We use the inflatable collars now because of this lol.” Meanwhile, Michaela Charley revealed, “When my dog had to wear her first cone, she literally stood in one place staring at the wall all night.” Bilo&tali added humorously, “He did that on purpose. He needs a big pity party to make him feel better.”
Louie’s cone adventure not only brought laughter but also highlighted the importance of ensuring our pets are comfortable during their recovery.
Original Source: Newsweek.
