Laois SPCA issues warning over dogs

A Laois animal welfare organisation has added to calls for people to secure their dogs. 

Laois Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals(LSPCA) said it has been inundated with messages about lost and found dogs over the Christmas and New Year with some entering farm land.  

Late last year gardai issued a warning to dog owners to keep their pets under control. The Irish Farmers’ Association(IFA) and the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association both urged people to control their dogs. 

In December sheep were killed by dogs on a farm in Ballybrophy and around 50 sheep were killed in a dog attack in neighbouring Offaly while a dozen were killed in kildare. 

“Over the Christmas and New Year we have been inundated with messages about lost and found dogs, some of which have gone onto farmland where there are sheep. It is very important to make sure your dog is secure  and can't wander off your property,” Laois SPCA said on social media. 

“Also important to keep your dog on a lead when they are off your own property. Lambing season will be starting soon and farmers need to protect their sheep and not have pregnant ewes stressed. Please be a responsible dog owner,” Laois SPCA added.