Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Monday, 27 November 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 29 November 2006. It was answered by Ben Bradshaw (Labour) on Wednesday, 6 December 2006 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Canine Shock Collars

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what research he has (a) commissioned and (b) funded into the (i) safety and (ii) ethics of electric shock collars for dogs.

Answer: Defra has not yet commissioned or funded any research into electric shock collars for dogs, though we are currently considering this.A limited tender call asking for proposals to assess the effect of electronic pet training aids (specifically static pulse, anti-bark, and inert gas training systems) on the welfare of dogs was circulated in July.A single proposal was received, which is now undergoing internal and external assessment before a decision is taken on whether to commission this research. If any research is commissioned we would expect work to start in April 2007.The terms of the call were for studies focusing on an epidemiological approach into the behavioural, physiological and psychological effects of electric training collars on the welfare of dogs. Safety is implicit in this.Defra has also asked the Companion Animal Welfare Council to undertake an independent study of available evidence on the use of these electronic training aids, to help inform policy and complement any research that the Department may commission. The overall aim is to develop a sound evidence-base to formulate policy on whether or not to regulate such devices. Ethical issues are an integral part of animal welfare policy considerations.I also refer my hon. Friend to the answer given in the other place on 8 November 2006, Official Report, column WA161.

Secondary information