Warning to Laois dog owners in lambing season

The head of the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals urged dog owners to remain vigilant at lambing season during a recent visit to Laois. 

Dr Cyril Sullivan was giving a presentation at a meeting of Laois County Council in Portlaoise on Monday. 

Fine Gael Cllr PJ Kelly asked Dr Sullivan if farmer had the right to kill dogs that were worrying animals on their land. 

“At this time of year sheep are lambing,” said Cllr Kelly. 

Dr Sullivan said the ISPCA issued a press release regarding lambing season for dog owners last week. 

“During lambing season, it's 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,” the release stated. 

Dr Sullivan told Cllr Kelly that landowners were entitled to protect their animals.

Dog Warden Tristan Blundell said farmers can shoot a dog that is worrying livestock. However, he said they must report the incident within 48 hours and if a dog is caught alive, they are required to contact the dog warden. 

Mr Blundell said if the dog is not there when they arrive at a location where dogs have been worrying animals they will investigate. 

“I still urge any farmer to ring both the gardaí and the dog warden,” he said. 

Mr Blundell said he is coming across an increase in cases of dogs attacking other dogs. 

“There was one the other day and the owner did decide to put the dog down,” he revealed.