BFF Photography Studio Policy on the Use of Shock Collars & Negative Reinforcement
Having a portrait taken of your pet should be fun. It shouldn’t be painful. Pet photography sessions with Bell’s Furry Friends Photography are usually fun for you and your pet.
Bell Furry Friends Photography’s studio policy is that the use of the following is prohibited:
- Choke chains
- Prong collars
- Electronic collars, also known as shock collars, e-collars, and radio collars
- Anti-bark collars
- Abuse
- Exerting dominance over the pet
This policy is in place to do several things. First, these collars do not create visually attractive pictures. Second, many dogs who wear these collars have great anxiety about a new person trying to maintain their attention.
We want your pet to have a great time during their session and see it as a positive experience. These collars are painful for the dog. If you don’t think this is true, strap that shock collar on your neck. Then, turn the power up to high.
The use of shock collars is prohibited from BFF Photography sessions. The studio reserves the right to cease photography if a shock collar is attached to the dog. This is for the photographer’s safety, the people being photographed, and others around during the session.
What can you do instead?
Invest in a new collar and leash set.
Bring an extra solid collar with you to the session for your pup to wear. This is a great time to invest in a new collar and leash set that will make the pup look and feel great.
Control
Maybe you’re concerned about controlling your pet. BFF Photography policy includes positive reinforcement during photo sessions that may include the use of a clicker, a toy, or food. Also, BFF Photography supplies various lengths of leashes to provide better control that looks and feels comfortable to you and your pet.
Breathe
Pet photography can be a source of stress for both you and your pet. Our goal is to make that stress non-existent. If you feel stress, breathe. Your pet picks up on your emotional state.
This can help or hinder great photographs. Trust that you are in good hands. BFF Photography has experience working with pets of varying training levels, ages, and comfort levels in front of the camera.
Our friends at Green Acres Kennel Shop recently recorded a great Woof Meow radio show about “The Unintended Consequences of Shock Collars.” Check it out here.
