SNAKE AVOIDANCE COURSES NO LONGER OFFERED

Due to recent legislative changes by the Queensland State Government, we are no longer permitted to use native wildlife for the purposes of training domestic animals. This is driven by their mandate to protect the welfare of native species.

Because of this, we will not be able to run our snake avoidance courses anymore unless the State Government rethinks these new regulations.

It has been suggested that we could try using rubber snakes - or snake skins - like some other trainers, but in our experience of running these courses over the past 6 years, this would not ensure the correct learning outcome (dogs are not that gullible) and hence would simply be a scam. As Padfoot is an ethical, science-based business devoted to canine welfare, this is simply not something we are prepared to do.

The only other reputable snake avoidance training course we know of in the whole of Australia is based in WA and run by Animal Ark.

In order to help your dogs avoid dangerous interactions with snakes, we would recommend:

• Keeping your yard clear of debris and long grass - making the area as unattractive to snakes as possible

• Ensuring that your dog's recall is reliable (in the event that you are aware of a potential interaction occurring) particularly when 'in drive'

• Maintaining a high level of vigilance when out walking if your dog has a high prey drive or overly curious nature

Please keep an eye on our socials just in case we find a way to recommence this valuable training solution in the future.