Shock Collars Marketed as Safe May Be Dangerous and Painful to Pets

Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe LLP today launched an investigation into the conduct of the makers and sellers of popular shock collar products for dogs, including Radio Systems, PetSmart, and Petco. These products include PetSafe, Invisible Fence, SportDog, and PremierPet.

Radio Systems markets and sells dozens of shock collar products through their own stores and websites, claiming that these products are “safe,” “effective,” and “harmless” and an appropriate tool for training household pets. Instead of disclosing the true nature of these shock dollars, it describes electrocution using euphemisms such as “static correction,” “surprise,” “tap,” “tickle,” and “sensation.”

In reality, however, these shock collars may be physically painful and may cause severe injuries, including skin rupture and inflammation, gastrointestinal disorders, and changes in a dog’s heart rate and respiration. Additionally, shock collars may cause psychological stress, anxiety, and depression as a result of repeated painful shocks. Scientific studies also demonstrate that the use of shock collars may lead to increased aggression and other behavioral problems, rendering dogs less obedient and the training with a shock collar less effective than training using positive reinforcement. However, the sellers do not disclose these facts anywhere in their marketing or advertising.

Indeed, the use of shock collars has been condemned by many domestic and international animal advocacy groups, including the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and the Humane Society of America. Because the physical and emotional harm shock collars may cause animals, the use of shock collars has been banned in a number of countries, including in Germany and England, due to the “unacceptable harm and suffering” shock collars cause to household pets.

The Schubert Firm is investigating whether sellers of shock collar products may have misled consumers in violation of state and federal laws. If you have purchased a shock collar from one of the following brands, you may be entitled to damages and an injunction forcing the seller to halt the practice.

• PetSafe

• Invisible Fense

• SportDog

• PremierPet

If you purchased one of these shock collars products and would like to learn more about your legal rights—or would like to participate in the class action lawsuit—please complete the form below for a free legal consultation.