Call for publicity campaign on dogs

The much-publicised recent sheep kills in Lorrha and Moneygall have prompted a call for a publicity campaign over dog ownership.

Dogs were discussed again at last week's meeting of Nenagh Municipal District. Councillors expressed concern at the number of restricted breeds they have seen without muzzles in public areas.

Cllr Joe Hannigan wanted to see byelaws being enforced in relation to such breeds. He spoke of observing a pitbull terrier in Nenagh, the owner of which did not seem to be aware of his responsibilities.

Cllr John Carroll mentioned a similar situation in Nenagh where he encountered two restricted breeds without muzzles. The dogs made a lunge at some young people, who had to jump out onto a road to avoid the animals.

Most dog owners are responsible. “But there is a very tiny cohort just putting their two fingers up to the public,” Cllr Carroll said.

Cllr Ger Darcy said a public meeting had taken place in Kilbarron recently, following the dog attack on sheep in Lorrha, which left 70 sheep dead, 20 more injured and five missing. A large crowd was in attendance and people were very worried about the situation, Cllr Darcy said, adding that there were reports of wild dogs roaming the countyside. Dog owners were also letting their pets out at night. He wanted to know if the local authority could help through organising a publicity campaign, raising awareness about responsible dog control, as well as how to feed and exercise dogs.

Cllr Michael O'Meara spoke of the emotional as well as financial trauma that farmers encounter after their animals have been attacked by dogs. He praised the dog wardens but they said they are often limited in what they can do.

Cllr O'Meara had previously suggested a neutering campaign for dogs involving local vets at a lower rate. He said new legislation is needed at national level in relation to puppy farms.

Cllr John Rocky McGrath had great sympathy for the farmers affected by sheep kills. Dogs hunting in packs could cover as much as 20 miles of range, and the situation has become so bad that it almost warrants an armed warden patrolling at night, he said.

District Administrator Rosemary Joyce pointed out that the matter had been discussed at two recent meetings of the council; she said the councillors' concerns would be passed on to the Environment section. No new byelaws are needed because restricted breeds are already governed by the "law of the land". Enforcement is matter for the dog wardens and gardaí, though they have limited resources. The council does have byelaws in place for amenity areas, restricting dogs from playgrounds and other areas, with varying degrees of compliance. Ultimately, responsibility rests with the dog owner, Ms Joyce said.