I thought this email was interesting

Here's a mass marketing (spam) firm trying to sell a leash that controls your dog when you can't. And, it's specifically being marketed to runners who run with their dogs (they can't control) around other runners and walkers. Is this something we would want to encourage?

With all the dog parks in Portland, why not visit one of those leash-free zones and let your dog roam? Or, if running with your dog is too much physical stress, take your dog for a proper walk, and then give yourself a proper run. Are people really so lazy that they have to combine the two? I mean, if it works for you, great. But if it's too much trouble, maybe you should trade it in for a cat or a hamster.

In any case, I thought this little exchange was fun. Also, I visited the site, and my computer detected malware, so I did not proceed in. That's too bad, because they could have gotten some free exposure. Anyway, here you go:

(From Allison):
Heading out on a run with your dog could very well be the best part of your day- that is unless your dog pulls incessantly against the leash. It's difficult to enjoy even a short run if your dog is struggling and straining against the leash and collar, and it can become quite hazardous if you're around other walkers/runners and can't control and command your dog to heal.

It's from precisely this type of situation that our leash product was developed. Now walking your dog isn't a hassle but rather a simple exercise, one without a struggle and one that doesn't involve the words "choke chain". The leash seeks to eliminate the strain dogs put on themselves and their owners by providing two disciplinary actions: first, a beep if the dog pulls too hard letting the dog know that he or she is not to continue pulling and second an uncomfortable but completely safe correction stimulus similar to those used in yard containment systems. Most dogs learn not to continue pulling after hearing the beep once and do not receive the correction stimulus after only a couple uses.

It is the perfect solution for runners who have never before been able to take their dogs running! It's been approved by veterinarians and satisfied owners alike and could prove to be a critical foundation for pet owners and their furry friends in the future.

Please let me know if you are interested in learning more. I would love to coordinate a product sample, images or interview requests. This is a great new product that runners who own dogs will love!

(My Response): Dear Allison,
This sounds remarkably great. Can you send me a sample leash that I can try out on the neighbor's dog when I house sit? I usually like to jog at a slightly faster pace, and sometimes little Pugsy gets distracted and wants to sniff bushes, or acts like he's "tired" and can't keep up. I do want to make sure, though, that the electric charge isn't powerful enough to do any real damage, or cause Pugsy to lose function of his bowels, since that might be messy to clean. Also, if the shock is just a light tapping, similar to what you would find with an electric stim. device at the chiropractor's, could it be the sort of thing that me and my girlfriend could experiment with? Thank you in advance!