Submissions closed on Tuesday and if you want to view the submission from Professional Dog Trainers Australia simply head over to our website > https://dogtrainersaustralia.org/igp-dog-sport-is-not-attack-training/ 

We have mentioned this petition in our submission and we are keen to gather as much support for 30 members of the Adelaide Sportdog Club as possible.  Please keep encouraging others to sign! 

How will the members of the Adelaide Sport Dog Club be impacted? 

If the legislation passes, members of the Adelaide Sport Dog Club will be directly impacted.

From a well-being perspective, the social stigmatisation and inability to train in public removes a significant aspect of their lives that provides structure, purpose, and mental engagement. This disruption could lead to increased stress, anxiety, and a decline in overall mental health for both dogs and owners.

For Adelaide Dog Sport Team Members: 

1. Loss of Community and Support: IGP provides dog owners with a strong community and support network. Restrictions in training will lead to feelings of isolation and loss of social connections built through the sport.
2. Decreased Mental Wellbeing: Engaging in IGP activities gives many participants a sense of purpose, achievement, and enjoyment. Restrictions could lead to reduced mental wellbeing, increased stress, and potential depression.
3. Loss of Structured Activity: The comprehensive training and competition schedule of IGP offers a routine and focus for dog owners. Without this, there may be a loss of motivation and increased difficulty in maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle.

For the dogs of Adelaide Dog Sport Club:

1. Lack of Mental Stimulation IGP training and competitions provide significant mental stimulation for dogs. Without this outlet, dogs may experience boredom, leading to anxiety, excessive barking and destructive behaviours.
2. Reduced Physical Exercise IGP training keeps dogs in peak condition. Restrictions in training will lead to decreased physical activity, weight gain, health issues, and associated mental stress.
3. Behavioural Issues  Without the structured environment of IGP, dogs might develop behavioural problems due to a lack of routine and insufficient outlets for their energy and drive.
4. Loss of Purpose Working dogs, particularly those bred for specific tasks, thrive on having a job. The inability to train frequently will lead to a lack of purpose, causing frustration and mental distress.

This is not right for people or for dogs.  Why is this legislation targeting the most responsible dog owners in the state? 

Photo credit Mike Harper Wild Dog Photography