Collier Leeds: (kol-yer) French: collar; necklace (leedz) castle in Kent, England

 

History

While visiting England in the spring of 2005, I planned a family outing to Leeds Castle in Kent about an hour drive from London. Although I found the castle and the grounds spectacular, its dog collar museum was the feature that left a lasting impression on me. I had never seen anything of its kind and being a lifelong dog lover I was genuinely thrilled to view these little historic pieces of canine art. I was so taken with the unique look of the collars that I wanted to adorn my own dogs with something similar. Unfortunately, despite many shopping trips, I had no luck finding collars with the appearance of antiquity or the quality of the ones at the castle.

As the name suggests, Collier Leeds, is the outcome of that fateful trip to Leeds Castle. My company is a true representation of me. Collier Leeds is a combination of my professional experience, my interest in history, the love I have for my dogs plus the need for a great collar. Having worked in a Pennsylvania auction house for 10 years and as a Marketing Director and Account Executive in the fashion jewelry and headwear industries, I have drawn upon my experiences to bring my customers stately, fashionable collars that are well made and destined to be heirlooms and a lasting reminder of the dog we love so dear.

 

Thank you for your interest,
Mary Oswald
Owner, Collier Leeds

 

Construction

Each collar is handcrafted in my studio in the rolling hills outside of Virginville, Pennsylvania (yes, there really is a Virginville). I start with high quality sides of latigo and “English” bridal leather that I shape to form the backbone of the piece. Then, the buckle, dee rings and “medallions” -- that I design and solder together from brass findings -- are attached and secured to the leather. All of the metal is electroplated and lacquered to ensure a sturdy finish. I use genuine semi-precious stones and the buckles are both reproductions of a 2nd century A.D Roman Military buckle and a Russian buckle from the 12th – 13th century A.D.

Note: Each collar style is named for a beloved dog, both living and gone, of the friends and family of Collier Leeds. Some of the styles are nicknames –because we ALL have them – of those same dogs. For example, the “Lizzie and “Lippy” both refer to the same pup.

 

Care

Much care is taken to ensure you receive a high quality dog collar. Before leaving the premises, each collar is finished with protective coating. However, the leather will mellow and patina with age because of its natural tendencies. Collier Leeds recommends that your collar be used for decorative purposes and even though it will stand up to your dog’s antics, should be kept dry and clean.

 

Collier Leeds Return Policy

If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply return new, unused merchandise within 14 days of the purchase date. Please include a note with your name, address and daytime phone number. Credits will be issued in the original form of payment within 7-10 days. Please be aware that we will not refund any shipping costs.

Note: Collier Leeds recommends using a method of shipping when returning your item, that provides a tracking option as we cannot be responsible for items we do not receive.

Send returns to:
Collier Leeds, LLC
Attn: Returns
PO Box 10
Virginville, PA 19564

 

Your Dog's Safety

Under no circumstances is Collier Leeds, LLC responsible for the safety of your pet. Our collars are designed to be worn as decorative accessories, not as a means to keep your pet under restraint.