Motion

Motion TitleBanning the Use of Aversive Training Tools for Domestic Animals

Motion TextThat this Assembly recognises the need to promote animal welfare and humane training methods for domestic animals; agrees that aversive training tools including shock collars, prong collars, choke chains and grot collars are a barbaric and cruel way to train domestic animals; acknowledges that such tools can cause physical and psychological distress to animals creating long-term behavioural issues; notes that the use of electronic shock collars on cats and dogs is prohibited in Wales, and that Government guidance on such tools is provided for in Scotland; supports calls from reward-based dog trainers, Dogs Trust and the USPCA that these tools should be banned for sale, use and ownership; welcomes the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs' recent consultation on animal welfare reform and encourages stakeholders to complete that consultation; calls on the Minister to introduce a bill in the current Assembly mandate to prohibit the use and possession of aversive training tools for domestic animals with appropriate exemptions for veterinarians, animal rescuers and dog wardens to use necessary tools when required for safe handling and in cases of emergencies; and further calls on the Minister to work with the Minister of Justice in considering penalties and ensuring any enforcement measures are sufficiently resourced.

Motion CategoryPrivate Members' Motion

Date Tabled to Business Office18/05/2026

Date Selected By Committee19/05/2026

Date of Plenary Debate01/06/2026