Instructions for Application of the Avian Spherical Cervical Collar:

Warning: Restraint is an aid, not a substitute for proper diagnosis and treatment. Effectiveness of this collar must be determined on an individual patient basis for the specific purpose intended. It will not serve well for all conditions. The Avian Spherical Collar is made of medical grade polycarbonate plastic.

Designed for smoothness, the injection molding process can occasionally result in slight surface imperfections.  This is more common on smaller sized collars when ordering FULL SETS. Check for surface imperfections around all edges of each half  of the collar before applying. A Dremel  is effective for removing burrs.  Collars that do not lock completely benefit from leveling off any tiny deposits folding in between the two halves associated with filing a burr near the locking mechanism.  All individual collars (separated from a full set) are checked for imperfections and removed before shipping. It is still appropriate to check each collar.

Virtually indestructible while in place, it can  pop off if ‘hit’ just right. A tape ring around the equator or placed within the two catches can further secure the collar. Always instruct clients in unlocking a collar from their bird.

Size Selection: Approximate to the size of the bird’s head.  Two or three sizes may fit one bird. Sizes increase by 0.2 inch increments. The numeral markings indicates each collar’s diameter in inches and also serves as the pressure point  to unlock the collar.  

‘Three Step’ Process of Applying the Collar:  First, slide the numerically marked rim of each hemisphere to the inside of the opposing unmarked rim.  Second, rotate back and forth to release any feathers. Third, centrally locate your thumb on opposite protruding rims. Press to lock. Do not apply constant, increasing force. The  collar is designed to lock easily. If it does not easily lock, recheck the alignment of the two halves and / or try shifting pressure points slightly. After locking, verify again the collar turns freely.

The two step lock allows you to loosely align the two halves together on the bird, rotate to free up any trapped feathers, then lock into the final position. Practice locking and unlocking the collar before placing on a bird. When fitting smaller collars, place a temporary mark at each numerical site. This will help to more easily identify correct alignment while placing on the patient.

The collar  may be unlocked  by simultaneously placing finger pressure directly over the numbers on opposite halves. The collar separates in one direction only.

Bird reaches around the collar?  See Rim Extension page.

Dr. S. Medlin has successfully used this clever approach: To extend the width of a collar, select an appropriately sized clear tape or cut strips of clear packaging tape. Fold sections of the tape to create a flap of tape adhering to itself with a free tab on both ends to adhere to the collar.  Use overlapping tabs to complete each half of the avian collar, leaving a small gap where the two halves snap together. Separate pieces of tape can be folded circumferentially over the tabs to join them into a single ridge or left alone as individual overlapping flaps.  The  ridge extension can be short, medium, or wide. After placing the two halves together on the bird, add cross pieces of tape to complete the 360 degree extended rim.   You can trim the tape to a more pleasing circle or leave it square. Do not leave the sticky adhesive side of the tape exposed.

Yes, your bird will pick at the tape rim and you may need to reinforce it from time to time with more tape.  Most birds will adjust to this comfortably and stop trying to remove pieces of the tape rim. 

You are most welcome to share your personal techniques that you have found to be helpful. Send to < drghn@aol.com >.