I've seen this also. I go out of my way to say hi and let them know that a harness is what should be used for Yorkies, because of collapsing trachea. I have found these people didn't seem to know how serious walking them on just a collar could be. I even saw a guy in a pet store and let him know also. He went right over and starting looking at harnesses. I guess some people have no clue. It's a shame the poor animal has to pay the price.