It seems that most of us are really not so much at odds as to whether or not choke collars are effective. I think it is more their proper application and use that is the issue. I too know of several cases in which dogs were strangeled to death after having been left unattended with a choke collar in place. If used properly, in the "P" configuration, ("Uncle Matty" 1st taught me this!) as a training method, under supervision, I think they work very well in teaching "correction" in obedience training. I know many who are also having great success with the Halti-collar and Gentle Leader. Some, however, mistake these for also being able to act as a muzzle. They don't. A dog can still bite with them on. I know when Star was a puppy, but already very strong, I would never have been able to walk her comfortably without having trained her on a choke collar. (Maybe a Halti collar if they had been available) She would pull and strain so strenuously with a cloth collar and and would end up almost choking HERSELF; gasping for breath, and dragging me to the ground! After learning how to walk properly in obedience class with a choke collar (like was said; just a "pop" correction) she was fine after one class or two. Most importantly, the training class taught her to "heel" and obey other commands that keep her from pulling in the first place! Please just pass the word to anyone who will listen. Don't ever leave a dog unattended, inside or outside, with a choke collar on!