Depending on the personality of the dog, the anti-barking devices can have side effects. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, Nov. 25 (Korea Bizwire) — Anti-barking devices that were developed to prevent pet dogs from barking are sparking controversy over animal abuse.
A variety of anti-barking devices and after-purchase reviews are available when searching through Internet shopping malls.
Most of them are necklace type models that give a physical shock from electricity or ultrasonic waves when a dog barks, aimed at conditioning them to associate barking with a negative experience.
The problem is that there is almost no guidance on the level of noise and the strength of electric shock and whether it is within an endurable threshold or not.
Many experts stress that anti-barking devices that give electric shocks strong enough to create a tremendous fear for dogs can be seen as a form of animal abuse particularly from the perspective of animal welfare.
Anti-barking devices. (image: 11st)
Depending on the personality of the dog, the anti-barking devices also can have side effects such as more violent and aggressive responses, rather than solving the barking problem.
“The ideal solution is to create an environment where dogs don’t have to bark by moving to new locations where their sense of uneasiness can be eased,” said Lee Woo-nam, a licensed veterinarian.
“When such a method is not possible, it’s better to use pet behavior therapy for dogs rather than using anti-barking devices.”
J. S. Shin (js_shin@koreabizwire.com)
