The Tasmanian Government has moved to ban prong collars as part of its Animal Welfare Amendment Bill 2022.
The amendments in the bill include banning the use of prong collars, expanding authorised officer powers of entry, further clarifying animal research arrangements, and providing additional sentencing options for animal cruelty and aggravated cruelty among other proposed changes.
Dr Rhianna Booth, Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) Tasmanian Division President, said the use of prong collars does considerable harm to dogs and their use is completely unnecessary.
“Modern animal welfare science gives us better training techniques to use with our pets. These techniques are effective and support the wellbeing of our pets rather than harming them.”
It is illegal to import prong collars into Australia and they are banned in Victoria, but the AVA would like to see their use banned nationwide.
“The Tasmanian Parliament needs to prioritise the wellbeing of our pets and support these moves to end the use of these collars.”
Jo Palmer, Tasmanian Minister for Primary Industries and Water, said in a statement that the Animal Welfare Act was always intended to be improved and enhanced and this Bill takes important steps towards a stronger animal welfare framework in Tasmania.
“The changes outlined in the Bill were recommended by the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee, a statutory body established under the Act, and will ensure improved welfare for all animals, including pets, livestock, and wildlife.
“Our Government is committed to continuing the review and improvement of Tasmania’s animal welfare system and I would like to thank the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee and all those who provided comment and feedback during the Bill’s public consultation period.”
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