The invention is a method for protecting the neck of an animal following surgical insertion of an esophagostomy tube. The e-Tube protective collar prevents injury to the surgical site, provides stabilization of the e-Tube and prevents accidental or deliberate removal of the tube by the animal. The collar is constructed of two layers of fabric which encircles the animals neck and fastens via hook and loop fastener strips under the neck allowing for adjustment of tightness. There is a stitched hole in the fabric for the e-Tube to pass through which is then held stable once the collar is placed around the animals neck. The collar has a hook and loop fastener strip disposed on the top face to fold over the loose end of longer e-Tubes and hold them flat against the collar. The collar requires minimal dressing for the wound and protects it while allowing it to “breathe”. Because of the comfortable fit, the collar can remain on the animal continuously and causes no discomfort or impediment to normal eating, grooming, or play.
