Help us make the Isle of Man a place where animals are trained with kindness — not pain. Electric shock collars deliver a painful electric shock to stop unwanted behaviour in dogs and cats. While some people see them as a training tool, the truth is that they cause fear, stress, and long-term emotional harm.

In 2024, the Isle of Man Government’s DEFA conducted a public consultation that it hoped would lead to a law change. Of the 687 unique (but unverified) responses, surprisingly 78.6% of people said it should not be illegal to use a shock collar on a dog or cat. But scientists and animal welfare experts tell a very different story.

Research commissioned by the UK Government and carried out by the University of Lincoln found that dogs trained with shock collars showed signs of anxiety, fear, and avoidance. These dogs were also less playful, less confident, and less trusting — even after the collar was removed. Other studies confirm that the stress caused by these collars can last long after training ends.

Organisations such as the RSPCA, Dogs Trust, and British Veterinary Association oppose their use. Shock collars are already illegal in Wales, and England and Scotland are phasing in a ban, recognising that reward-based, positive training is far more effective and humane.

By signing this petition, you are calling on the Isle of Man Government to:

•  Reissue a more robust public consultation, and publicise it more effectively 
• Ban the sale, possession, and use of electric shock collars
• Promote positive, science-based training methods
• Protect animals from fear, pain, and unnecessary suffering

Our pets deserve compassion, not cruelty. Sign now to help us end the use of electric shock collars on our island.