Keeping Our Supporters Informed
On 22 December 2025, the Government published its “Animal Welfare Strategy” (applies to England only)
Included in this was its intention to carry out a consultation, “later in this Parliament on whether to ban the use of electric shock collars”
While no dates or details have yet been confirmed, we want to reassure supporters that the Association of Responsible Dog Owners (ARDO) is fully aware of this announcement and is already taking appropriate steps behind the scenes. The announcement has come as no surprise as this type of lobbying pressure always reappears in one form or another.
We have sought trusted political advice and are in the process of actively engaging with the relevant individuals and departments within the Government to ensure that the experience, evidence, and voice of responsible dog owners remains represented at every stage.
As always, our focus is on ensuring that any future discussions or proposals properly reflect the real-world needs of people who train, care for, and responsibly control their dogs within the law and with animal welfare forever at the forefront.
At this stage, we are not asking supporters to take any immediate action.
Our extensive experience has shown that timing matters, and when the moment calls for a wider, cordinated action, we will not hesitate to contact our support base directly and clearly.
For now, the most helpful thing supporters can do is simply raise awareness of ARDO.
If friends, family, colleagues, or clients align with our ethos and would like their voice represented in future discussions, they can visit joinardo.com to find out more, or email info@joinardo.com with the subject line “Support” to confirm they are happy to be contacted and represented going forward.
As always, such representation is completely free of charge. We continue to operate as we have always done, by working as one to represent the collective interests of us all. This helps ensure that, when needed, ARDO can continue to speak for and with responsible dog owners across the UK.
In the meantime, please look out for email updates and stay up to date with the ARDO website.
Thank you for your continued support and a very Happy New Year!