Pet leashes are often a necessity designed to keep canines, other pets, and fellow humans out of harm’s way — though somewhat understandably, not all dog owners enjoy the thought of their beloved pet being constrained. As a result, retractable leashes have become increasingly popular. These devices allow a dog to roam 10, 15 or even 25 feet in any direction, while attached to a lead that can be conveniently locked or retracted with a simple flick of the thumb. So what’s not to like?

Evidently, plenty. According to data collected by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were 16,564 hospital-treated injuries associated with pet leashes in 2007. The most common types of injuries reported were severe burns and lacerations sustained when a cord whisked rapidly across human flesh, or wrapped itself tightly around part of the owner and/or the dog.

Unfortunately, these scenarios describe all-too-common occurrences that are closely associated with the use of retractable leashes.

In its popular online blog, the ASPCA discourages pet owners from using retractable leashes altogether. Similarly, the Humane Society of the United States lists multiple warnings on its web site. Even manufacturers themselves include some troubling cautionary fine print on their very own product packaging. What’s behind all this?

A retractable leash is essentially a length of thin cord wrapped around a spring-loaded device and housed inside a rigid plastic handle. A button on the handle controls how much of the cord is extended at any given time. There are several ways that this can prove to be a problem — or even a life-endangering threat — for you, your dog, another pet or another human. Here are just a few examples:

If you, a fellow dog walker, another animal, a cyclist or a jogger become suddenly entangled in the cord, deep burns/cuts and even amputation of tails or fingers can result. Reflexively reaching out to grab an unspooling or tangled cord only worsens the damage.

The skinny cord on a retractable leash can snap when a strong or excited dog is at the other end of it. Not only will this endanger the dog (and anything he/she might be chasing), but the cord can whiplash back and cause the owner disfiguring facial injury.

Because the extended cord is so thin, it’s also not easily seen. This can cause tripping and other accidents.

A hostile or aggressive dog may approach or attack your pet while the retractable cord is fully extended. You may not have time to pull your own pup to safety.

Your free-roaming dog may come into contact with another leashed pet who is sick, and who can then pass this illness along to your canine before you can intervene.

If you happen to drop the handle in a busy area, the sudden cord retraction — plus the clacking noise the handle will make as it drags along the pavement — can alarm most dogs and cause them to bolt frantically. A dog who is feeling “chased” by this handle may be frightened enough to race directly into traffic. Even if this scenario ends without physical harm, it can create in your pup a lasting terror of leashes — or of walks in general.

An energetic dog who suddenly reaches the end of the retractable cord may experience an abrupt yank to the neck that can lead to trachea laceration or spinal injury. Simultaneously, the owner at the other end may be pulled off his/her feet onto hard pavement.

Like most mechanical devices, retractable leashes are more likely to malfunction over time — either refusing to retract at a critical moment, or unspooling without warning.

By their very nature, retractable leashes teach dogs to pull during walks, because your pet learns that pulling can extend the lead.

So for those of us who regularly enjoy running, hiking or taking extended strolls with our outdoor-loving pups, what other options exist? Fortunately, there are a range of extremely sturdy “roamer” and “hands-free” leashes that are specifically designed to afford your pet a little extra freedom to explore while keeping you firmly in control.

These products typically feature durable, elasticized webbing and/or specialized clips that permit your dog to traverse a limited distance while attached to a rugged, bright and, often, reflective lead that won’t break or give way. At any time, you can take control with one or both hands to bring your dog safely to your side.

Harness renewed peace of mind with trusted brands like Stunt Puppy, Iron Doggy, and Ruffwear or check with your local pet supply store for other good options. A walk with your dog should be one of the most enjoyable parts of your day. Don’t let the dangers of a retractable leash ruin the fun!