Petition to ban electric shock collars on Island pets reaches 800 signatures

ManxSPCA calls for a renewed government consultation and a full ban on shock-based training devices

A petition calling for a ban on electric shock collars for pets on the Isle of Man has reached more than 800 signatures.

The campaign, which was launched by the ManxSPCA, urges government to outlaw the sale, possession and use of the devices, which deliver electric shocks to deter unwanted behaviour in dogs and cats.

Supporters argue the collars cause fear, stress and longer-term emotional harm.

The petition follows a 2024 Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture consultation, which received 687 responses.

According to government figures, 78.6 percent of respondents said shock collars should not be made illegal.

Animal welfare groups including the RSPCA, Dogs Trust and the British Veterinary Association oppose the devices, citing research such as a University of Lincoln study for the UK Government that linked shock-based training to increased anxiety, avoidance and reduced confidence in dogs.

The ManxSPCA is calling for a fresh, more widely promoted consultation and for the Isle of Man to introduce a ban similar to those in Wales, England and Scotland, along with greater support for positive, reward-based training methods.

The petition can be found HERE.