The proposed NSW legislation relating to pinch (prong) collars has now been tabled in Parliament for consideration.

This is a critical stage in the process and the voices of ordinary, law-abiding dog owners, trainers, handlers, sporting dog participants, and working-dog communities matter more than ever.

We encourage supporters to respectfully contact their local NSW MP and ask them to carefully scrutinise:
• the evidence relied upon
• the lack of tool-specific injury data
• the distinction between misuse and competent use
• the potential unintended welfare consequences of the proposed ban

A draft letter for your Local State Member has been prepared to assist community members wishing to raise their concerns respectfully and constructively with their local representative. Individuals are encouraged to personalise the letter and share their own real-world experiences and perspectives.

Many people are deeply concerned that the proposed reforms rely heavily on narrow, non-tool-specific evidence and advocacy positions, while failing to properly consider:
• real-world behavioural management
• rehabilitation outcomes
• public safety
• the experience of practitioners working daily with complex dogs

Importantly, NSW already has animal cruelty laws that allow authorities to investigate and prosecute cruelty, misuse, negligence, and abuse. The issue is not whether cruelty laws exist — it is whether ordinary members of the community should be criminalised for responsibly using tools that many believe assist with behavioural management, safety, and rehabilitation.

Thousands of these collars are already in use across the community by otherwise law-abiding owners and handlers acting in good faith. Many people are concerned the proposed laws are disproportionate and will reduce the ability to effectively manage strong, reactive, and complex dogs, potentially increasing behavioural deterioration, surrender, and euthanasia outcomes.

This is not about supporting cruelty. It is about ensuring legislation is balanced, proportionate, evidence-based, and informed by real-world expertise and practical outcomes.

NB. Our photo shows how all dog owners benefit from education no matter the equipment.

Thank you to everyone who continues to support this petition and contribute respectfully to this important discussion.