Seven disturbing videos released to the public showing dogs writhing in agony after police in New Zealand used 50,000 volt tasers have shocked animal advocacy organizations and concerned citizens. New Zealand Police Superintendent Chris Scahill has defended the use of the tasers, stating they are only used on dogs when it is absolutely necessary to protect the safety of police or of the general public.

According to One News Now, the distressing footage shows the dogs being shocked. SPCA Andre Midgen’s chief executive says she has serious concerns about police using tasers on dogs and when they deem it necessary. She also stated any dog tasered should be immediately treated by a licensed veterinarian. A 50,000 volt taser is used to bring a full grown man down – one can only imagine the “serious concerns” advocacy groups have expressed.

“In a high pressure, time-sensitive situation, and without canine behaviour training for the police, it is possible that in certain circumstances that this is the safest course of action,” Ms. Midgen admitted, but added that “it is potentially dangerous to use a Taser on an animal, just as it is with humans.”

Scahill claims using a taser is safer than using a gun. Police have not reached out for any advice on using this on animals, but claim there have not been any serious injuries or deaths to dogs.

In one of the videos, police are shown arriving at a home where the man urged his dog to attack. First deputies tried to stop the dog with pepper spray as it sprinted towards the officers. The officers then used a taser to bring the dog to a very painful halt. The other videos also show aggressive dogs approaching police – once the dogs were tasered, they stopped.

The US company for taser manufacturing, agrees a dog can be killed after being tasered, but also contends it has been an effective option when dealing with aggressive animals; however admits it may be fatal to smaller animals.

(Photos screenshots via videos and One News Now)

The videos are disturbing, but can be watched by following this link.

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