Thank you for contacting me in support of a ban on the use of electronic shock collars.
I recognise your concerns about the use of these collars, and I am grateful to you for contacting me to raise them.
As you know, these collars are sometimes used in the training of animals, commonly but not restricted to dogs. Some organisations such as the Association for Responsible Dog Owners argue that they are effective training methods.
However, I know that organisations like the RSPCA, the Kennel Club and the Dogs Trust oppose the use of the collars on the grounds that they are harmful to animal welfare and can generate unwanted behaviours and responses in the animals on which they are used.
Let me assure you that this new Government will introduce the most ambitious programme for animal welfare in a generation and will bring forward its plans in due course. I know that Ministers are currently considering the available evidence around the use of electronic collars and their effects on the welfare of animals. I will continue to monitor developments on this subject with interest.
In the last parliament, I did much work in fighting animal abuse, such as tail docking, puppy-smuggling and more. You can read the report that the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee produced in April 2024, here: https://committees.parliament.uk/work/7283/pet-welfare-and-abuse/publications/
Animal welfare is an issue I care deeply about and I will do all I can to ensure that the Government fights to protect our pets.
Thank you once again for contacting me about this very important issue and for sharing your views.
Kind regards,
Barry Gardiner
MP for Brent West