Golden Retriever Looks Like He's Pouting When He Gets Put in 'Donut of Shame'
- Some dogs, like Bru the Golden Retriever, feel embarrassed and frustrated when wearing the cone of shame after a vet visit.
Most dogs dislike going to the vet, which is totally understandable. There's nothing to love about vaccines and exams (other than their potential life-saving effects, of course), but for some unlucky pups, things only get worse when it's time to go home. I'm talking about the cone of shame!
This bizarre-looking medical device prevents dogs from licking and chewing injured areas, but it also seems to get in the way of most everyday tasks. Whether it's bumping into the corner of the wall or preventing your dog from reaching their favorite toy, there's no limit to the frustrations this can cause. It's no wonder why dogs get so sad while wearing the cone!
Bru the Golden Retriever pup is no exception. This young dog had to visit the vet for a minor procedure on July 9, but being stuck in the cone--or, in his case, a donut--of shame, is so much worse. The poor guy looks so embarrassed!
Aww! I do feel bad for laughing at Bru, but he looks so pathetic and sad once the donut goes on. I'd be upset to get stuck in my own yard, too, but that look he gave his mom was too much!
Related: Dog's Pitiful Protest Over Wearing a 'Cone' Is Sad Yet So Funny
"OMG, you can see the feelings on his face," one person commented. Haha--it's true! This Golden Retriever puppy may be almost grown up, but he expresses himself like a much younger dog sometimes. I'm surprised he didn't ask Mom for help!
Bru and his mom didn't specify why he had a patch of fur shaved underneath his ear, but there must be something that's healing if he's at risk of scratching it. The good news is that it seems like a minor issue, but the bad news is that he still has to wear the donut!
Alternatives to the Cone of Shame
As Bru has proved so fashionably, there are alternatives to the cone of shame which are cuter and comfier. True, this plushie inflatable donut was still big enough to get him stuck in a narrow walkway, but at least that padding was softer than scraping plastic.
There are a few similar options on the market, like a soft and flexible cone made of water-resistant nylon. You could also try a more fitted collar that looks like a neck brace, though some dogs feel anxious about the tight fit. If your pup's injury is in a spot that's easy to cover, you can even try a medical vest or sleeve to keep the spot covered. As a last resort, you can DIY a cone or Elizabethan collar for a very short while.
All in all, Bru the Golden Retriever still has it pretty good. Caring for stitches or healing wounds can be annoying, but he'll get used to the bulk of the cone around his neck soon enough. However, by then, it may be time to take it off!
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