SINGAPORE – In a significant move towards enhancing animal welfare, the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) have announced the formation of a new workgroup dedicated to reviewing dog training standards in Singapore. This initiative aims to scrutinize the use of various training devices, including controversial tools like shock and prong collars. Ensure your Newfoundland’s comfort and security with expert tips on how to ensure a safe collar fit for Newfoundland.
Dog Training Standards | Diverse Expertise on Board
The newly established workgroup comprises a diverse range of experts, including professional dog trainers, veterinarians, representatives from animal welfare organizations, and members from working dog units. This multidisciplinary team is tasked with evaluating the current positions on the use of different dog training devices and developing comprehensive regulatory frameworks to govern their usage.
Focus on Aversive Training Devices
A primary focus of the workgroup will be on aversive training devices such as shock collars and prong collars. Shock collars deliver electric shocks to the dog’s neck through contact points, while prong collars use blunted prongs to apply pressure around the neck.
These methods have sparked considerable debate within the animal training community due to concerns over the potential for causing pain and distress to dogs. Discover the ideal fit by learning what size collar for Newfoundland dog to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety.
AVS’s Commitment to Science-Based Regulation
In a statement released on Thursday, August 22, AVS emphasized its commitment to creating a well-informed and scientifically backed regulatory framework. “AVS is committed to approaching the regulation of shock collars with careful consideration and thorough preparation to ensure that there is a well-informed, effective, and feasible regulatory framework, backed by science, put in place,” the agency stated.
Current Landscape and Previous Guidelines
The conversation around aversive training methods is not new in Singapore. In April, Minister for National Development Desmond Lee revealed that the National Parks Board (NParks) is developing new guidelines that, at this stage, do not impose restrictions on the use of aversive training devices, including electric shock collars.
However, Lee assured that NParks would continue to monitor the situation and take enforcement action against the misuse of such devices to prevent unnecessary pain or suffering in animals. For expert tips on how to fit a collar on a Belgian Shepherd, this guide offers simple steps to ensure your dog’s collar fits securely and comfortably.
This stance was in response to a parliamentary question from MP Louis Ng, founder of the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES), regarding the potential ban of remote electric shock collars.
Senior Minister of State for National Development Tan Kiat How further highlighted the risks associated with these devices, describing the experience of using electric collars as “very painful.”
Insights from Past Work and Research
In 2022, the Rehoming and Adoption Workgroup (RAWG) published guidelines advocating against aversive training techniques that inflict excessive pain, fear, anxiety, or distress on dogs. These guidelines recommended avoiding methods such as beating, kicking, or choking, emphasizing the importance of positive reinforcement in training.
In April 2023, focus group discussions were held to gather diverse perspectives on the use and regulation of dog training devices. These discussions revealed a consensus on the need for better public information regarding the risks associated with improper use of shock and prong collars, as well as the availability of alternative, less aversive training methods.
Emphasis on Education and Awareness
One of the key outcomes from these focus groups was the unanimous agreement on the necessity to educate the public about the potential harms of aversive training devices. AVS highlighted that many trainers and pet owners recognize that, in certain situations, aversive devices might be necessary. However, they stressed the importance of their proper use to ensure the welfare of the animals.
“The new workgroup will study how to educate the public on the risks of using aversive training devices, so people can make more informed choices about their training methods,” AVS stated. Additionally, the workgroup aims to develop proposals and implementation plans to promote the adoption of less aversive training approaches.
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Developing Comprehensive Standards and Regulations
Beyond education, the workgroup is also tasked with establishing training standards, welfare codes, and regulatory measures governing the use of training devices. This includes benchmarking against international standards and reviewing global positions on devices like shock and prong collars.
“Most countries today do not have specific legislation regarding the use of such devices. For countries that do adopt regulatory regimes, these range from banning their use or permitting it under prescribed conditions,” AVS explained. The agency is actively gathering insights from international counterparts to inform its regulatory framework and ensure effective enforcement.
Addressing Market Practices
In an effort to mitigate the risks associated with aversive training devices, AVS has begun engaging with pet shops and e-commerce platforms. The goal is to discourage the sale of such devices and to publish warnings through notices and advisories, thereby reducing their availability and promoting safer alternatives.
Public and Industry Response
The formation of this workgroup has been met with mixed reactions from the public and industry stakeholders. While many animal welfare advocates support the move towards stricter regulations and increased awareness, some dog trainers and pet owners express concerns about the potential limitations on training methodologies.
Nevertheless, the overarching aim is to ensure the humane treatment of dogs and to promote training practices that prioritize the well-being and psychological health of pets. Discover the perfect collar size for an Anatolian Shepherd Dog to ensure comfort and security for your furry friend.
Looking Ahead
As the workgroup embarks on its mission, the focus will remain on creating a balanced approach that considers both the effectiveness of training devices and the ethical implications of their use. By fostering collaboration among experts and stakeholders, AVS and SPCA hope to establish standards that enhance animal welfare while supporting responsible dog training practices.
Wrapping Up
The establishment of this workgroup marks a pivotal step in Singapore’s ongoing efforts to refine dog training standards and ensure the ethical treatment of animals. By addressing the use of aversive training devices and promoting positive reinforcement methods, AVS and SPCA aim to create a safer and more compassionate environment for dogs across the nation. Learn more about the unique double-layered coat of an Anatolian Shepherd and how to care for it effectively.
