The use of portable, remote-controlled electronic shock collars on dogs and cats should be banned, according to Agriculture, Food and Marine Minister Charlie McConalogue.
The measure follows a recommendation made to the minister by the Advisory Council for the Welfare of Companion Animals.
However, the use of shock collars will not be completely banned, according to the minister.
“While I believe these devices should not be used on dogs or cats for welfare reasons, I have listened carefully to those who have raised their concerns about the ban,” said Minister McConalogue.
“For this reason, I intend to allow those who currently use shock collars on their dogs to continue to do so, but only for those dogs,” he said.
Dog owners who currently use shock collars on their dogs will be able to register for an exemption for their dogs with the department.
“The ban will then protect puppies and dogs that have not previously used shock collars. In this way, I am balancing the positive animal welfare benefits for dogs and the strong public support for the ban with recognizing the concerns of the small number of owners who believe they need to continue using them on their dogs,” he added. .
The proposal only refers to the use of electronic shock collars activated by portable remote controls. These are not anti-bark collars or collars attached to border fences or remote fences to control other animals, according to the department.
Minister McConalogue urged dog owners to keep their dogs under control when around sheep and other animals.
“Even if the sheep are not physically attacked, I say to dog owners: keep your dogs on a leash at all times if there are sheep nearby,” he added.
Minister McConalogue cites that animal welfare is a “priority” for the government, as the annual animal welfare grant program was launched last week and had €6 million allocated to 101 charities for animals in December 2023.
