Call for action on restricted dog breeds

Nenagh Municipal District has been urged to take action to highlight the responsibility of owning a restricted dog breed.

Cllr Joe Hannigan told the district’s July meeting that he witnessed owners of such dogs walking their animals around the town of Nenagh. They "should have to undergo a training course in how to handle the dogs", Cllr Hannigan said. “How can we make the owners aware of their obligations?”

Cllr John Rocky McGrath agreed. “These dogs are often bred for security,” he said. “It gives me the creeps to see them walking around.”

Cllr Ger Darcy pointed out that there is an obligation on every dog owner to have their dogs under control.

Orla Kelly of the council’s Environment section said the council has carried out campaigns around ownership in the past. Notifications have been issued about the obligations for owning a restricted breed of dog. Ms Kelly said the council would look to run a follow-up campaign.