03/02/2017
Clearly this applies country-wide. I believe the only way to train a dog is in a positive, encouraging and loving way by reinforcing the good behaviour.
Copy of statement on our website issued today, regarding the use of unethical techniques and methods in dog training and behaviour:
Oxfordshire Animal Behaviour Centre has recently been made aware of isolated canine events/conferences wholly unethical in nature being organised in the county, and would like to reiterate the message from scientists, as well as the veterinary sector and animal welfare organisations regarding the use of aversive (harsh) 'techniques' and methods in dog and animal training. These punitive methods include the use of shock, electronic or spray collars, applying 'corrections' to a dog, or worse pinning dogs to the ground. Apart from the risk of triggering or worsening aggression, these techniques can also cause a dog to shut down which can lead to a variety of scenarios, e.g. the elimination of warning signals leading to a bite, fear of humans or other long-lasting psychological damage. Despite a mountain of evidence pointing to the potential long-lasting harmful effects, as well as dangers associated with the application of these methods, members of the public, family pets and working dogs are still being exposed to these techniques and still being put at risk. These techniques are often promoted by individuals with little or no suitable credentials in training or behaviour who lack knowledge and understanding of animal training learning theory and the science underpinning animal behaviour. More importantly, these methods are nothing more than abuse which can cause the human-animal bond to break down irretrievably. We would ask that you please check the methods being used at events you are thinking of attending, as well as the background and credentials of any speaker.
