Frequently asked questions

How do you accept payments?

By Paypal. Details are on the checkout page.

 

The instruction booklet that came with the sling seems to be in the wrong page order!

We apologise for this mistake. The inner page was stapled in the wrong way round during the printing process. The printer did offer to correct it, but for eco reasons I didn't want to have the whole document reprinted, but if you remove the staples or pull the inner sheet out, and turn the same page over, it will then be in the correct sequence when inserted back into the same place. I'll correct this mistake in the next print run.

For clarity of the correct page sequencing, the outer pages of the booklet are correct, but page 3 should have a photograph of the orange sling in the top left corner.

 

I didn't receive a booklet when I purchased my sling

All of the information within the booklet is contained and updated on this website, but if you would like a copy emailed to you please contact us.

 

Please can you explain what an underarm throw is?

For an easy example take a look at the demonstration video to see how I throw it, as every ball that is thrown is done by using an underarm throwing technique. Its important to hold the two cords before commencing the throw and you need to do a full 360 degree rotation of your arm before letting go of the release cord, to achieve a worthwhile throw. At its simplest an underarm throw is achieved by moving your throwing arm forward and rotating it upwards and backwards in a circle, as if you are doing the backstroke when swimming. Keep your arm straight when doing so and make sure you follow through after releasing the ball to keep the cord from hitting you in the face after its thrown it. Only one revolution is necessary to throw it, and don't try to put too much force into it initially. Ensure that you are holding the Sloofa correctly before attempting the throw. Any attempt to throw the Sloofa with an overarm throwing technique is not recommended.

 

What's the best way to deal with a slobbery ball?

After the ball has been retrieved it will become more slobbery and less attractive to pick up. If you use two balls when using the sling it does enable you to partially ‘clean’ the ball which has just been released, while the other is being retrieved. To do this, gently roll the ball around in the grass with your foot. When your dog returns with the retrieved ball, let them see you pick up the other ball, as it invariably encourages your dog to drop the ball that they’ve just retrieved, enabling you to throw again and repeat the process. 

 

Will the Sloofa become saturated with saliva after use?

No. The Sloofa is resistant to water to a certain extent, but it will get slightly damp internally after extended use, but you will still be able to put in your pocket. Its good practice, when using it, to roll the retrieved ball around in the grass with your foot, before putting it back in the Sloofa to throw again, as this will help.

The Sloofa can also be used to throw snowballs, but it will get more saturated when used for this purpose and it will need time to dry out afterwards. Often it's a good idea to purchase an additional Sloofa to ensure that you've got one which is ready to use, but even a damp one will continue to throw.

 

What do you do suggest if my dog doesn't release the ball it's just retrieved?

Try using two balls, as this may encourage them to drop the one they’re holding. Be stubborn with them too, and only throw the next ball after they’ve released the other one, but this may take some time, so be patient and work on it.

Use the ‘Give’ command for them to release the ball, and give them praise such as ‘Good Boy/Girl’ only when they’ve released it. Don’t forget to give them praise when they find the ball as well.

 

Will my dog be hit with the sling when I throw it?

Very unlikely, once they get used to it, as they'll start running as soon as you commence the throw. Try using the dynamic throwing position as it gets your dog focused before you throw it. See my demonstration video on this method, and note the concentration from my dog prior to the ball being thrown.

 

Is it safe to use tennis balls with my dog?

Unfortunately there have been some serious accidents involving dogs with tennis balls particularly associated with choking, and because of that we are unable to recommend any tennis ball as being suitable, although we appreciate that many still use them. Solid balls would be safer, although these could present other hazards, (see my safety page for further information), but if there is any doubt always use a larger ball which your dog is unable to swallow. 

 

I'm finding the Sloofa difficult to control!

A Sloofa will throw the ball effectively all the time, but its all about practice and timing. Ensure that the cords are set to the correct length and you are using and holding it correctly. Start with gentle throws to try and get used to the 'sweet spot' which launches it. If you throw it behind you, you're releasing it too late, so try to release it sooner next time. If you throw it along the ground almost immediately you're releasing it too soon so delay its release the next time. Some will take to it straight away, but it won't suit all, and it will only be achieved with more practice. As it becomes more popular I'm sure that its likely to attract a following of those that will compete for accuracy, but for the less skilled users it can be thrown relatively accurately and effectively once you get used to it, but it does require practice.

 

I keep throwing the ball behind me or high, why?

You're releasing the ball too late. Try to release the ball sooner and start off with gentle throws until you get used to it.

 

I can't throw it - it just rolls along the grass a short distance in front of me!

If the cords are set at the correct length and you're holding and throwing it correctly you must be releasing the ball too soon. Try delaying when you release the cord to see if that works. Ensure that you using an underarm throwing technique and make sure that you are holding both cords when you commence the throw.

 

The release cord occasionally hits me in the face after I've thrown it- how can I avoid this? 

 Keep a straight arm when you throw it, and follow through with your arm after you've thrown it. See the instructions for other tips on how to avoid this, or how to deal with it when its about to occur. Take a look at my demonstration video and notice how I follow through after throwing it.

 

Can you make a Sloofa to a special size for me?

Yes. Send us an email with details and we'll try our best to meet your requirements, but they would be made to order.  

 

How can I avoid resetting the string lengths for different users of the Sloofa?

The easiest way to overcome this is to buy another Sloofa and have each set to different lengths, but it would be best to choose a different colour so that they are easily distinguished. Alternatively, if you have patience, you could buy additional cords, but you'd have to change them every time you wanted to swap them over. If the latter is your preferred option, it would be easier to untie them just beneath the eyelets to swap them over, as these knots would be quicker to remake and be more accurate, but you will probably have to cut both of the cords to one of them, once you have it set in the right place, to ensure that you can remake it the same place every time afterwards.

 

Can I pick the ball up with the Sloofa without bending for it?

No. You may achieve it with a bit of practice, but its very difficult to do and it will require some stooping and fancy footwork. This question has been asked a few times, and we're working on it, so keep checking the website for any future progress in this area.

 

I find the plastic launchers difficult or uncomfortable to use, will the Sloofa be the same?

Some that have had this problem have confirmed that they can use the Sloofa, but it will depend on each individual, so we can't say that it will suit all, but an underarm throwing action is less strenuous than the overarm method which the plastic launchers require.

 

How far can a Sloofa throw a ball?

The answer to this question depends on the thrower along with a few other factors, but you don't have to throw it far. Most adults should be able to throw the ball about half the length of a football pitch quite easily, but some will be able to double that distance. 

 

Can you throw a Sloofa without doing a full rotation of your arm?

Yes, but you don't achieve the same throwing distance, but it's still better and easier than trying to throw it with just your arm.

Any other questions?

Send us an email and we'll try and help.