The BC SPCA has launched a new campaign that hopes to see the end of the use of shock collars on pets.
“We know that some dog owners turn to aversive training tools, such as shock collars, out of a genuine desire to keep their pet safe,” says Dr. Karen van Haaften, senior manager of behaviour and welfare for the BC SPCA and a Board-certified veterinary specialist in behaviour.
“They may not be aware that shock collars can cause both physical and psychological pain for their pet and that there are humane, reward-based training options available that are just as, if not more, effective in addressing unwanted behaviours,” she adds.
According to the BC SPCA, one myth about shock collars is that they don’t hurt if used properly. The shock collar delivers an electrostatic shock to the dog’s skin, which can cause pain, an unhealthy increase in heart rate, and severe burns.
Dr. van Haaften notes that veterinary associations and humane organizations have long recognized that punishment-based training is detrimental to animals.
“While these collars can alter behaviour, there is a growing body of evidence from across North America and Europe that their short- or long-term use is associated with high levels of stress, phobias, fear and increased aggression in dogs,” she explains.
According to van Haaften, one of the most inadvertent and unfortunate results of the shock collar is the breakdown in the bond between an individual and their pet.
“An animal will sometimes associate the pain of the shock with other things in their environment at the time, including their owner. We urge people to seek out one of the many effective, reward-based training options available and to take a stand against harmful tools like shock collars.”
You can take the pledge not to use shock collars on the BC SPCA website, along with training help, myths about shock training, and frequently asked questions.
