Dog behaviourists and trainers denounce them; scientific research shows that they can cause severe interference and pain; and new research shows that dogs trained using confrontational methods will continue to be aggressive – so why are electric training devices still legal?

The Welsh Assembly Government is soon to launch the second consultation on banning the use of such devices, including collars, mats and leads, in Wales.

Following the Rural Affairs Minister Elin Jones’s announcement in June 2008 that she intends to ban the use of electric shock training devices, Wales is now clearly leading the way in the UK in legislating against their use.  Her announcement received cross-party support within the Assembly. The formal second consultation will decide what sort of ban will be applied and how this will be implemented, and is due to be published imminently.

Over 25 Assembly Members met with representatives from the Kennel Club and renowned dog trainer and behaviourist Carolyn Menteith today at the Assembly to discuss the issue and how effective legislation could be drafted.

The Kennel Club has long been campaigning for a complete ban on the sale and use of electric shock training devices across the UK. It is now clear that Wales is the only administration in the UK that is prepared at this stage to ban the use of such devices on welfare grounds.  Both DEFRA and the Scottish Government are waiting for further research to be completed. This research is costing the Government a total of £469,000 at a time when Defra resources for companion animals are scarce. This despite the fact that the Welsh Assembly has taken the decision to ban the use of shock collars based on existing scientific evidence.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club spokesperson said, “There is strong political support for a ban from across the parties in Wales and we very much welcome the Minister’s decision to issue a second consultation. However, we have not won the fight just yet and it is vital that dog owners and all those concerned with animal welfare across Wales respond to this consultation and contact their Assembly Member to ensure effective legislation is drafted.

“Pain and fear are not humane methods by which to train a dog. There are many effective positive training methods which are reward based, such as recall training, clicker training and retractable leads. These methods train dogs quickly, easily and reliably, with absolutely no fear, pain, or damage to the relationship between the owner and the dog. With these methods available there is no justification for electric shock training devices.”

Renowned canine behaviourist and trainer Carolyn Menteith also echoed her support, "Over the many years I have been working with dogs, I have been delighted to see both progressive owners and professionals alike recognise that the most effective way to train dogs is through positive methods. We live in a country and in a time that recognises that pain and fear does not aid learning. I continue to be disgusted that giving a dog, or even a tiny puppy, an electric shock in the name of training, is still legal in a country that generally prides itself on its humanity. I am delighted to hear that the Welsh Assembly Government has announced that it will be regulating against the use of electric shock training devices in Wales, and I hope that they will continue to lead the way to a total UK ban."

Further information on the consultation for a ban in Wales will be published on the Kennel Club campaign website www.banshockcollars.org.uk

Anyone in the rest of the UK who wants to support the Kennel Club’s call for a ban is encouraged to write to their local MP/MSP. The Kennel Club has produced a template letter, available by request, which can be found on its website under the press office/campaigns section. For further information, please contact the External Affairs department on 0844 463 3980 ext 301 or visit www.banshockcollars.org.uk.

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