As we approach peak lambing season, the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) is issuing a vital reminder to all dog owners to keep their pets under control around sheep.
Under the Control of Dogs Act, dog owners can be held financially liable for any damage caused to farmers.
Dr. Cyril Sullivan, chief officer of the ISPCA said: “Dog owners must be vigilant at all times, but especially now as we are in the lambing season.
“Whether you live in or near the countryside, or visit it for recreational purposes, I ask that you are on guard the whole time.
During lambing season, Sullivan said it is “crucial” for dog owners to “understand the profound impact their actions can have on vulnerable livestock.
“By keeping our pets under control and secured, we not only safeguard the welfare of sheep and their newborns, but also prevent unnecessary suffering and financial burden for all involved,” Sullivan concluded.
The ISPCA urges dog owners to ensure their animals are securely restrained around sheep and other livestock.
Allowing pets to roam freely in rural areas can result in devastating consequences for both the animals involved and their owners.
The ISPCA describes that the “seemingly innocent act” of leaving dogs unattended, even for a “brief period in the back garden that is not fully secure” could be a risk to livestock.
The society urges owners to check that garden fences and gates are in order to keep gardens secure, and also to seek a dog trainer to educate your dog on how to behave around sheep and other livestock.
The ISPCA has said it is “imperative” that dog owners take proactive measures to prevent such incidents by keeping their pets under control and secured, especially during this critical time of year.
Pregnant ewes can be seriously injured in a panic to escape dogs and this can often result in miscarrying their lambs.
Allowing a dog to roam is not only irresponsible, according to the ISPCA, but it is also an offence to not have your dog under effective control and local authorities are enforcing the Control of Dogs Act.
The ISPCA added that in “certain circumstances, farmers may be legally entitled to shoot dogs” to protect their flock if they are endangering livestock on their property.