How rogue 'trainers' are risking the lives of our beloved household pets

DOGS, rabbits and even tortoises are being put at risk by unqualified "pet trainers", animal welfare experts warn.

- Jonathan Walker

Well-meaning owners looking for help with unruly pets have been charged hundreds of pounds by "trainers" who advertise their services online, despite having no expert knowledge.

The Animal Behaviour and Training Council is calling for pet trainers to be regulated, with a governing body to enforce high standards.

The charity highlighted one example of a trainer who pinned a puppy to the floor by its neck.

The owner told the charity: "My dog Bobby clearly did not like this and tried to get free. Even more pressure was applied.

"This resulted in Bobby gagging and choking, and unleashing the most horrendous noise I have ever heard him make."