Dog owners urged to be vigilant following sheep kill

The responsibility of dog owners and the vulnerability of sheep to dog attacks, particularly during lambing season, has been highlighted by Cllr Paul McCabe, Vice Chairperson of Meath County Council.

Speaking in the wake of another grisly attack in Moynalty in recent weeks, Cllr McCabe warned: "Any dog, large or small, may become involved in attacking sheep.

"Dog attacks cause real and serious injury to sheep and can often have a horrific and long lasting impact, both financially and emotionally, on farmers and their families.

"Dog owners need to realise that even quiet, docile pet dogs can turn into viscous killers, especially if they join other dogs."

He added that dog owners must be mindful that with ownership comes responsibility and you have to keep them under control at all times and should never be let out unsupervised, especially at night.

"We are all aware of the terrible dog attacks on sheep over the last number of years. This is not acceptable. In my own parish, over the past 14 months there have been a number of savage attacks resulting in the loss of over 20 sheep.

"Our local Dog Wardens and An Garda Síochána are doing what they can, but they cannot patrol every part of the county at all times. The solution rests with dog owners.

"Whether you live in or near the countryside or visit it for recreational purposes, I sincerely ask that you be on guard the whole time. Do not give your dog the opportunity to attack sheep and cause distress, anxiety and pain to both sheep flocks and their owners.’’

Cllr McCabe also pointed out that dog owners can be held liable for the economic loss to the farmer following an attack on sheep.

"Sheep flocks are very vulnerable to dog attacks at lambing time, and especially during the night. In addition, the presence of dogs even on a lead, can alarm sheep prior to lambing and have a detrimental effect on both the sheep and their lambs. Make sure that your dog is not responsible for injury to sheep or for the stress and financial loss to sheep owners and their families.

"Some sheep never recover fully from a dog attack and can suffer ongoing health problems, including reproduction problems and nervousness. While it is recognised that the vast majority of dog owners are responsible, a momentary lapse in concentration can have disastrous consequences.

"Under the Control of Dogs Acts it is an offence for a dog owner to not have a dog licence and all dogs must also be microchipped and registered. Having a dog licence is a very important aspect of responsible dog ownership.

"Licences cost €20 and are available to purchase at any Post Office" concluded Cllr McCabe.