RSPCA Tasmania described the pronged collars to have "fang-shaped metal links, with blunted open ends turned towards the dog's neck so that, when the collar is tightened, it pinches the naturally loose skin around the dog's next in order to restrict their movement".

RSPCA Tasmania said it is calling on the state government to amend legislation to ban the sale, possession, or use of pronged collars on dogs.

Dr Ward said there were much more useful ways of dog training.

"I've seen them used in some training classes for strong dogs who pull and lunge at other dogs," Dr Ward said.

She said it was a form of punishment.

"We know of the adverse affects, we don't need to use them these days."

READ MORE:

Dr Ward said the collars went against proactive health care, something that vets consider very important.

She said they caused damage.

"I've seen them in a handful of cases.

"They're not that popular, so it shouldn't impact people to ban them."

Dr Ward said there were physical impacts from using the collar, including damage to underlying nerves and blood vessels.

"It's designed to cause stress," Dr Ward said.

She said it could impact the neuroendocrine system, heart and kidney because of the stress.

"There are better and more effective alternative options out there."

Drawing comparison with corporal punishment in schools, Dr Ward said we've moved away from that, and ought to move away this type of punishment for dogs.

RSPCA Tasmania has a petition addressed to Lyons MHA Guy Barnett to stop the sale, possession or use of pronged collars on dogs.

The petition said it wants to close the "legislative loophole" that allows "these harmful collars".