The use of electric pulse training aids (EPTAs) in companion animals

摘要

There is currently little regulation of training and behaviour modificationudprocesses in the UK (CAWC 2008) besides measures enshrined in the AnimaludWelfare Act 2006 and a voluntary Code of Practice launched in 2010 (see:udhttp://www.cawc.org.uk/080603.pdf). This Code is consistent with current UKudlegislation outside of Wales and emphasises the need to safeguard theudwelfare of all interested parties involved in the “training contract” (animals andudpeople alike) and the importance of adopting sound scientific methods withinudthe skills base of the practitioner. There is much debate and opinion overudwhether the use of certain training techniques and devices meet theseudrequirements, especially the use of electric pulse training aids (EPTAs). AnudEPTA is defined for the purposes of this report as a device designed for use inudthe training of dogs, cats and other companion animal species, which involvesudthe application of an electric current to the skin to aid the training process. InudWales the use of all electronic collars has been banned ostensibly on animaludwelfare grounds, including those related to boundary fencing (The AnimaludWelfare (Electronic Collars) (Wales) Regulations 2010). It has beenudsuggested that there are currently around 350000 EPTAs in the UK, althoughudthe number in active use is unknown. Nonetheless they clearly represent audsignificant practice within the sphere of animal training and it is appropriateudthat careful consideration be given to their use, especially when there appearsudto be so much contradictory information available and such passionately heldudconvictions (often linked to ethical and animal welfare concerns) by thoseudexpressing an opinion. This report critically reviews current evidence andudarguments used both for and against the use of such devices and theudconclusions drawn. It highlights gaps in our knowledge and awareness of bothudtheory and practice. Recommendations are drawn on this basis.