Manx public asked about electric cat and dog collar ban

Legislation would be brought in under the proposed Animal Welfare Bill 2023

A consultation on whether the Manx government should ban or regulate the use of electronic collars for cats and dogs has been launched.

The collars were banned in Wales in 2010 and draft legislation covering the devices is being considered in England.

Any Manx law covering their use would need to be introduced as secondary legislation under the proposed new Animal Welfare Bill 2023.

Chief Veterinary Officer Amy Beckett said the ban would protect the animals.

A questionnaire, which is available online until 23 November, asks for views on the use of training collars, anti-bark collars and pet containment fences.

It covers devices that use either "a static electric pulse, sound, vibration or water or citronella spray".

Environment member Michelle Haywood said the Isle of Man was "a nation of animal lovers, who care passionately about protecting our animals" and the use of the collars "can cause unnecessary harm and suffering".

She added that if the ban was backed by the public, it could come into action "early next year".