Dog owners in rural areas of Ireland have been given a new warning about attacks by their pets on animal livestock.
The Minister for Agriculture Joe Walsh today reminded people who exercise their animals on or near farms that dogs can legitimately be shot if spotted worrying cattle or sheep.
Mr Walsh issued the alert after increasing reports of attacks on livestock by dogs throughout the country - and as the annual lambing season reaches its peak.
An official at his department said: "Each year dogs that are allowed to run free are a menace to sheep. Uncontrolled pets can decimate a flock.
"Even the family dog let loose in the countryside can cause great distress to sheep - including pregnant ewes and lambs. The minister is very concerned."
The official said there were stiff penalties for negligent dog owners - as well as the risk of their pet being shot by farmers.
He added: "They may be found liable for damages and costs in a civil action, which means that the potential failure of an owner to keep a dog under control can ultimately involve a serious financial impact on, and emotional distress.
"And, apart from the cruelty and distress suffered by livestock, the financial losses to farmers, and indeed the economy, can be considerable."
Mr Walsh appealed for all dogs to be kept under control near farms so that suffering to sheep and lambs can be avoided.
PA