Statement Advocating for Force-free Training

The Singapore Veterinary Association (SVA) advocates for the use of force-free approaches to animal training as these are evidence-based, effective and humane.

We believe that aversive techniques that inflict pain or induce fear should not be used. These include physical or psychological punishment and the use of choke, prong and electric shock collars. Such aversive techniques can increase the risk of aggression.

Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) policy

Many scientific-focused dog training organisations and animal welfare groups around the world advocate for LIMA dog training methodology. 

This include (but not limited to):

• The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
• The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
• The Humane Society of the United States

From the CCDPT website, “LIMA describes a trainer or behaviour consultant who uses the least intrusive, minimally aversive strategy out of a set of humane and effective tactics likely to succeed in achieving a training or behaviour change objective. LIMA adherence also requires consultants to be adequately educated and skilled in order to ensure that the least intrusive and aversive procedure is used.”

(https://www.ccpdt.org/about-us/least-intrusive-minimally-aversive-lima-effective-behavior-intervention-policy/)

The SVA supports and advocates for LIMA dog training methodology in Singapore.

Pet owners should engage trainers who have professional qualifications and who only utilise humane methods. The Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) maintains a list of animal trainers who have been certified by reputable animal behaviour and training organisations under their AVS-Accredited Certified Dog Trainer (ACDT) Scheme.

(https://www.nparks.gov.sg/avs/animals/animal-related-businesses/accreditation-of-dog-trainers/accreditation-of-dog-trainers).