Cheshire doggy daycare under investigation after electronic collar reports
A doggy daycare in Cuddington, Cheshire, is under investigation after customers raised concerns about its use of electronic distraction collars, media reports suggest.
Cheshire West and Chester Council told Northwich & Winsford Guardian that Four Paws Doggie Daycare in Cuddington – which has now closed – is subject to an “ongoing investigation” after it received an allegation of the site using an electronic distraction collar.
This was reportedly brought to the council’s attention after a dog was sent home from the daycare still wearing one under its coat.
The council told the newspaper: “We would clarify there is no evidence that a shock collar has been used and the allegation made to us is regarding electronic distraction collars but is not in relation to collars that deliver an electric shock.
“We are unable to comment further on an ongoing investigation. Any concerned dog owners who have used Four Paws can contact the council at regulatoryservices@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.”
A spokesperson for Four Paws Doggie Daycare, which became Cheshire West’s first licenced doggy daycare almost 15 years ago, told Northwich & Winsford Guardian: “We want to make it absolutely clear; these are not electric shock collars.”
They added: “Although we had in the large moved away from these training aids and techniques, some equipment remained on site and had been used at staff discretion.
“We recognised the perception of some these devices does not align with our current values and as such took action by removing all collars from the premises, conducting further training, and contacting Cheshire West and Chester Council, which performed a spot inspection and took no immediate action.
“However, the pressures of trial by social media, threats, harassment coupled with the economic climate have contributed to making our daycare service no longer viable and the decision was made to close the doors.”
