Michael Gove announces move to ban ‘punitive’ pet shock collars in England
2 min read
The Government has announced plans to ban the use of so-called pet “shock collars” in England following pressure from campaigners.
The often remote controlled devices are mainly used to train dogs and cats, but have been branded cruel when used to punish misbehaving pets by emitting an electric shock.
Others included in the ban can squirt noxious sprays or make sounds which can upset a dogs’ acute sense of smell or have a painful effect on its hearing.
A consultation period will be held before ministers attempt to make the devices illegal. Shock collars are already banned in Wales and Scotland is set to follow suit.
Environment Secretary Michael Gove said the move was a clampdown on “punitive devices”, which “can cause harm and suffering, whether intentionally or unintentionally, to our pets”.
“We are a nation of animal lovers, and the use of these punitive devices can cause harm and suffering, whether intentionally or unintentionally, to our pets,” he said.
“Organisations and MPs have campaigned against the use of shock collars passionately and we are listening to their concerns.
“We are now proposing to ban the use of electric shock collars to improve the welfare of animals.”
Kennel Club secretary Caroline Kisko welcomed the move, saying: “Training a dog with an electric shock collar causes physical and psychological harm and is never acceptable, especially given the vast array of positive training methods available."
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