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SNP, Tories and Lib Dems unite to stop ban on shock collars for dogs

MSPs from Tories, Lib Dems and SNP vote to allow shocking animal cruelty

Members of the Scottish Parliament from the SNP, Conservatives and Lib Dems have united to block Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer’s proposed ban on the use of cruel shock collars.

The Scottish Government’s Minister for Animal Welfare, Jim Fairlie, was also unwilling to confirm if the Government even maintained its opposition to shock collars, adopted as non-binding guidance for dog owners in 2018.

Mr Greer’s proposed amendment to the Welfare of Dogs (Scotland) Bill, would have made it a criminal offence to use cruel shock devices to train a dog.

Shock collars have been banned in Wales since 2010. Similar bans are in place across Europe, including in Spain, France, and Germany.

MSPs were encouraged to back Ross Greer’s amendment by dog expert groups such as the British Veterinary Association, SSPCA , Kennel Club and the Dogs Trust. In 2023, the Scottish Government’s own Animal Welfare Commission conducted a thorough review and concluded that a ban was required, yet the Government have failed to act or even to respond to the review.

Scottish Greens MSP Ross Greer said:

“Shock collars are cruel. They cause totally unnecessary pain and suffering to dogs. That’s the view of animal welfare experts, charities and the vast majority of dog owners. MSPs had the opportunity to end that cruelty today, so I am bitterly disappointed that, with some honourable exceptions, the SNP, Conservatives and Lib Dems blocked a ban.

“I’d like to thank the MSPs who supported a ban, especially those who went against their party whips to do so.

“In even worse news for Scotland’s dogs though, the Minister was repeatedly asked if the Scottish Government even stood by its 2018 guidance against the use of shock collars. He refused to do so. The SNP clearly has no intention of delivering a ban on these cruel devices, certainly not before next year’s election. If anything, it looks like they are going backwards.

“Scottish Greens will always stand up for the welfare of animals. It’s clear that the only way to protect our pets and wildlife is to vote Scottish Greens next year."