Calls to ban 'barbaric' dog collar found in field

Cathy Wood was among a group of dog lovers who discovered the rusted metal choker at land off St Modwena Way in Staffordshire.

The 60-year-old, from Filance Lane, takes her and her daughter's two Shih Tzus and two Labradoodles to the spot in Penkridge for exercise. She said: "I have seen one on the internet before but never in real life.

"It was quite a shock to find one on the grass where we all take our groups. It was quite upsetting.

"It is horrendous just vile. The damage that could do to a dog."

Cathy posted a picture of the collar on Facebook which prompted similar outrage for social media users.

Some branded them 'evil' and 'sick' while another person branded it 'barbaric'.

Cathy added: "A lot of people have been commenting that they are used to train powerful and aggressive dogs not to pull but it is just wrong. You can't train aggression with aggression."

The RSPCA confirmed the 'pinch' collars were not illegal but called for them to be banned.

Rachel Butler, spokeswoman for the West Midlands RSPCA, said: "Sadly 'pinch' collars are not illegal, and although those who sell them state that they are 'gentle training tools', the RSPCA believes the opposite to be true and would like to see them banned.

"These collars which are also known as 'prong' collars are based on the principle of applying something painful or frightening to stop an undesirable behaviour.

"For example, when a dog pulls on a lead, the prongs of the collar close around the dog's neck, causing pain and discomfort, reducing the chance of the dog pulling on the lead again. However research has shown that this training technique can cause pain and distress to the dog.

"Instead, the RSPCA advocates using humane training techniques, such as rewarding the dog's good behaviour."