Electronic shock collars, prong collars can cause serious harm to dogs: AVS
Electronic collars are designed to deliver stimulus such as an electric shock, vibration or spray at the dog's neck. Prong collars comprise a series of links with teeth or blunted ends, designed to pinch the skin around a dog's neck when it is tightened.
Both fall under a category of tools called aversive training devices, which inflict discomfort or pain to deter unwanted behaviour in dogs. Such devices are easily available online, and can cost from $15 to more than $250.
The advisory, which aims to help dog owners understand the downside of such devices, was launched by Minister of State for National Development and Trade and Industry Alvin Tan during the Pets' Day Out event held at Tampines Boulevard Park. The event saw pet lovers gathering for workshops and a pet marketplace.
AVS, a cluster within the National Parks Board (NParks), will also be reviewing the need to regulate the use of animal training devices, as part of the review of the Animals and Birds Act. The review will take into consideration the outcomes and feedback for the advisory.
Said Mr Tan: "(The advisory) provides clear, science-based guidance to help dog trainers and pet owners make informed and responsible decisions about training methods."
The advisory also strongly encourages positive, rewards-based training methods.
"These are methods that help build trust with our dogs, making them feel safe and confident, while training and teaching them to better adapt to life in our urban environment," said Mr Tan. "The use of aversive dog training devices should only be chosen as a last resort and only by trained professionals or under the supervision of one."
The 34-page document was developed by the Dog Training Standards Workgroup, which comprises dog trainers, veterinarians, animal welfare groups and representatives from working dog units. Formed in August 2024, the work group is co-chaired by the AVS and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
A prong collar (left) and electronic shock collar on display. ST PHOTO: KELVIN CHNG
The advisory details the different types of electronic and prong collars, and the adverse impact it can have on a dog. Other than causing direct distress such as pain, fear and anxiety, aversive tools may also exacerbate and worsen existing behaviour problems.
Dog trainers and vets alike lauded the launch of the advisory.
Mrs Anna Koo, founder of dog training company Mutt Matters, said she usually handles cases of dogs that display reactive or aggressive behaviours. More often than not, the cases are linked to use of aversive devices.
Mrs Koo explained that aversive devices will typically suppress problematic behaviour such as growling, lunging or barking. However, these are ways that a dog expresses fear or discomfort.
"Over time, the dog will learn that it is not safe for it to communicate. So then you may start to get a silent, biting dog, which is far more dangerous," said Mrs Koo, 48.
Singapore Veterinary Association president Teo Boon Han said the advisory was a good first step in outreach and education. ST PHOTO: KELVIN CHNG
President of the Singapore Veterinary Association Teo Boon Han said that the advisory is a good first step in outreach and education, and he hopes there will be no need to take further measures.
"Hopefully, with these collective efforts, we can work together, and we don't need to take that next step (towards more measures). As a society, if there is internal motivation to change the way we treat animals, that's the best outcome," said Dr Teo.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New Paper
3 days ago
- New Paper
Electronic shock collars, prong collars can cause serious harm to dogs: AVS
Dog owners are urged to avoid using electronic shock collars and prong collars to train their pets as such devices can cause serious harm, according to a new advisory released by the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) on July 26. Electronic collars are designed to deliver stimulus such as an electric shock, vibration or spray at the dog's neck. Prong collars comprise a series of links with teeth or blunted ends, designed to pinch the skin around a dog's neck when it is tightened. Both fall under a category of tools called aversive training devices, which inflict discomfort or pain to deter unwanted behaviour in dogs. Such devices are easily available online, and can cost from $15 to more than $250. The advisory, which aims to help dog owners understand the downside of such devices, was launched by Minister of State for National Development and Trade and Industry Alvin Tan during the Pets' Day Out event held at Tampines Boulevard Park. The event saw pet lovers gathering for workshops and a pet marketplace. AVS, a cluster within the National Parks Board (NParks), will also be reviewing the need to regulate the use of animal training devices, as part of the review of the Animals and Birds Act. The review will take into consideration the outcomes and feedback for the advisory. Said Mr Tan: "(The advisory) provides clear, science-based guidance to help dog trainers and pet owners make informed and responsible decisions about training methods." The advisory also strongly encourages positive, rewards-based training methods. "These are methods that help build trust with our dogs, making them feel safe and confident, while training and teaching them to better adapt to life in our urban environment," said Mr Tan. "The use of aversive dog training devices should only be chosen as a last resort and only by trained professionals or under the supervision of one." The 34-page document was developed by the Dog Training Standards Workgroup, which comprises dog trainers, veterinarians, animal welfare groups and representatives from working dog units. Formed in August 2024, the work group is co-chaired by the AVS and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. A prong collar (left) and electronic shock collar on display. ST PHOTO: KELVIN CHNG The advisory details the different types of electronic and prong collars, and the adverse impact it can have on a dog. Other than causing direct distress such as pain, fear and anxiety, aversive tools may also exacerbate and worsen existing behaviour problems. Dog trainers and vets alike lauded the launch of the advisory. Mrs Anna Koo, founder of dog training company Mutt Matters, said she usually handles cases of dogs that display reactive or aggressive behaviours. More often than not, the cases are linked to use of aversive devices. Mrs Koo explained that aversive devices will typically suppress problematic behaviour such as growling, lunging or barking. However, these are ways that a dog expresses fear or discomfort. "Over time, the dog will learn that it is not safe for it to communicate. So then you may start to get a silent, biting dog, which is far more dangerous," said Mrs Koo, 48. Singapore Veterinary Association president Teo Boon Han said the advisory was a good first step in outreach and education. ST PHOTO: KELVIN CHNG President of the Singapore Veterinary Association Teo Boon Han said that the advisory is a good first step in outreach and education, and he hopes there will be no need to take further measures. "Hopefully, with these collective efforts, we can work together, and we don't need to take that next step (towards more measures). As a society, if there is internal motivation to change the way we treat animals, that's the best outcome," said Dr Teo.
Straits Times
6 days ago
- Straits Times
How this 20-year-old helps improve the well-being of the elderly
Apart from being a health peer, this polytechnic graduate is also a grassroots leader who makes meaningful use of his time to help the community As a Health Peer volunteer with the National University Health System, Mr Donavan Tan (right) was paired with Madam Chiang Kam Yoke to encourage her to adopt healthier eating habits. Once a month, 88-year-old Madam Chiang Kam Yoke meets a young man at a coffeeshop in Jurong West for an hour of happy conversation over her kopi siu dai. The young man is 20-year-old Donavan Tan, and though they were once strangers, both Mr Tan and Madam Chiang now share a precious bond, honed through a volunteering opportunity. As a Health Peer volunteer with the National University Health System (NUHS), Mr Tan was paired with Madam Chiang in July last year as she was identified to be at risk of developing diabetes. His job? To offer peer support and encourage her to adopt healthier eating habits. Watch to learn why Mr Donavan Tan chooses to spend his time volunteering and engaging seniors like Madam Chiang. During their monthly meet-ups at the coffeeshop, they would spend time catching up, with Madam Chiang updating him about her recent day-to-day activities and the courses she signed up for to keep occupied. Mr Tan would also take the opportunity to stress to her the need for a healthy diet and to show care and concern for his friend. 'I would ask her if she's been able to walk properly,' he says, noting that Madam Chiang has weak knees due to wear and tear. Once strangers, Mr Tan and Madam Chiang now have a unique but enduring friendship. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA During Chinese New Year, the two also exchanged red packets. 'We even 'bai nian' at the coffeeshop,' laughs Mr Tan, referring to the tradition of exchanging New Year greetings with Mandarin oranges. Serendipitously, what started as a three-month volunteering stint has now turned their relationship into a heartwarming friendship. Mr Tan catches up with Madam Chiang once a month and occasionally buys her a 'cheat meal' of prata to lift her spirits. PHOTO: COURTESY OF DONAVAN TAN From participant to practitioner Supporting Madam Chiang as a health peer is not Mr Tan's only volunteering stint. He also helps out at the NUHS community health screenings, while supporting the wider community through his work as a grassroots leader with the People's Association, and also at his constituency's weekly Meet-the-People Sessions (MPSes). When he found out NTUC Learning Hub was providing basic care support training, he signed up for that as well and was deployed to NTUC Jurong West nursing home where he assisted nurses in providing patient care. Interestingly enough, Mr Tan, who has recently been enlisted for National Service, describes the start of his volunteering journey as 'accidental'. SGShare: How more S'poreans can help the vulnerable Singaporeans now have a new platform to help fellow Singaporeans in need . To mark SG60, Community Chest's regular giving programme, Share, has been rebranded as SGShare to rally more to give regularly and support critical social service programmes. Starting this year, donations will be matched by the Singapore Government under the SG Gives matching grant, with up to $250 million available. Every dollar donated will help vulnerable communities, offering them opportunities to pursue their goals regardless of background. Here is a simple illustration of how your SGShare contribution can go a long way. In 2022, during his first semester break at Singapore Polytechnic, Mr Tan wanted to use his time more meaningfully. This came up while chatting with his secondary school teacher, who suggested he try helping out at the MPS – and so he did. 'I just walked in one random Monday and told them I want to volunteer,' he recalls. At these sessions, he meets people from all walks of life. What really tugged at his heartstrings were the elderly, especially those with health issues – interactions that deepened his interest in the medical sector and spurred him to volunteer with NUHS. Says the biomedical science diploma graduate: 'Volunteering provides me with a platform to help others; to uplift them, and to support them in improving their circumstances.' As a grassroots leader, Mr Tan (far right) also helps to promote various causes like racial and religious harmony. PHOTO: COURTESY OF DONAVAN TAN Meeting others who did not have the same access to healthcare as he did also pushed him to pursue further studies in medicine at the National University of Singapore. 'I want to serve, but from a medical standpoint,' says Mr Tan. 'Being a doctor is also about diagnosing and treating their non-medical needs for holistic care. Volunteering has also taught me a lot about how to interact with individuals of diverse age groups, racial groups and socioeconomic groups.' Mr Tan shares that individuals can always volunteer without feeling the pressure to commit long term. 'Whether you are comfortable talking to people, or prefer working in the background, there are roles for everyone.' Inspired to uplift others like Mr Tan does? This SG60, give back to our community in your own way. Visit and help build a more caring, inclusive Singapore. Celebrating SG60 with the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth
Straits Times
10-07-2025
- Straits Times
New Career Health SG initiative launched to support both S'pore workers and employers
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox Manpower Minister Tan See Leng said he hopes people will actively manage their career health, just like their physical health. SINGAPORE – A new national initiative, Career Health SG, was launched on July 10 to support workers in accessing the right mix of training and on-the-job learning, so they can make informed and decisive career moves aligned with their aspirations. A new one-stop website, also called Career Health SG, was also unveiled. It offers both workers and employers an overview of the available support measures that can help them with career and workforce planning. The initiative was announced by Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng during the inaugural Career Health Summit 2025 at the Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre, attended by more than 500 business leaders and human resources practitioners. The two-day summit, jointly organised by Workforce Singapore (WSG) and the Singapore Business Federation, seeks to have employers and experts exchange ideas on building a workforce that stays strong amid uncertainty. Dr Tan said employers play a vital role in building a healthier workforce, as they are best placed to identify the skills that warrant investment through employee training. He also called for employers to move to a skills-first approach in recognising and deploying talent, rather than fixating on formal qualifications. 'This will allow businesses to unlock even wider talent pools to stay ahead of the competition.' Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Business S'pore to launch new grant for companies, expand support for workers amid US tariff uncertainties Singapore HDB flats less attainable in 2024 compared with 2022: Report Asia Dr Mahathir at 100: Still haunted by the Malay Dilemma Sport No pain, no gain for Singapore's water polo teams at the world championships World 'Do some homework': 6 key exchanges between US Senator Duckworth and S'pore envoy nominee Sinha World Trump's ambassador nominee to Singapore Anjani Sinha has a rough day at Senate hearing Multimedia 60 objects to mark SG60: Which is your favourite? Business Fresh grads should 'stay calm' in job search, uptick in hiring seen: Tan See Leng A Ministry of Manpower (MOM) study found employers who embraced skills-first practices saw faster hiring, more diverse hires and improved employee performance, he added. He also said employers who wished to invest in workers' career health but did not know how to start by following these three steps. First, assess skills gaps or jobs at risk. Next, chart a plan to help uplift workers' skills, and then execute the plan through structured progression pathways and skills-first approaches, he added. Dr Tan said MOM will introduce more resources to help employers assess the skills readiness of their workforce, identify suitable training interventions, as well as opportunities for job redesign to optimise the skills of their employees later in 2025. Meanwhile, workers will get to connect with career coaches under WSG's career coaching programme Polaris to chart their career journey, and find out more about schemes that can help them overhaul their skill sets. Dr Tan, a trained medical doctor, said: 'Ultimately, my vision is for career health to be the new normal – it should be as central to our entire career journey, our lives and businesses as physical health is. 'Something that is readily discussed and actively managed by all.' The new Career Health SG website can be found at WSG chief executive Dilys Boey told The Straits Times the new initiative goes beyond merely aggregating existing schemes via the website. She said the goal is to drive a cultural shift, where employers transform their business operations and workforce, and workers take ownership of their careers. New digital tools will also be launched under the Career Health SG banner in the near future, including one that helps employers take stock of the skills their workers possess, she added. One employer on board with the initiative is home-grown in-flight caterer Sats. Chief human capital officer Tan Chee Wei told reporters it is important to create fulfilling jobs with tasks that workers find meaningful, and help them discover a greater purpose, such as contributing to Singapore's status as a leading air hub. In a keynote address, Harvard Business School professor Joseph Fuller, who studies workforce transformation, spoke about the importance for businesses to help their workers ensure their career health. He said data out of the US shows that on average, 41 per cent of an average person's work will be displaced by artificial intelligence. Data also shows that employers are looking for a more diverse skill set when hiring for roles that are more affected by AI, and this underscores the need for employers to support worker training. Prof Fuller told ST that Career Health SG and related measures in Singapore are 'easily the most sophisticated, ambitious national intervention that I am familiar with in this area'. The sophistication lies in not just providing employer incentives, but helping workers understand what skills are needed for their desired jobs, as well as supporting career shifts for the employed rather than just those who are out of jobs. But Prof Fuller noted that employers, especially smaller ones, may remain cautious about diverting scarce resources away from daily operations. Both employers and workers also do not always act in their self-interest, he said. People 'often assume that (continuing) what they do now has no cost and doing something additional has a cost, and so they are inclined to try to avoid the added cost', he added.
