Although the sale and use of electric shock collars has not been banned in the Animal Welfare Act, the Government could introduce a ban at a later date through Regulations. In England, Defra is committed to undertaking further research on electric shock collars and as a result of Kennel Club pressure, the Companion Animal Welfare Council has been appointed to carry out an enquiry. As a result of lobbying, the Welsh Minister for Animal Welfare has publicly stated his intention to bring forward legislation to ban electric shock collars and related devices and the Scottish Executive is also likely to issue a consultation this year, rather than in three years as originally suggested.
The KC Annual Report 2006/7 can be viewed in its entirety at www.thekennelclub.org.uk
