The Irish Farmers Association has set up a service for sheep farmers to report dog attacks on their flocks following concern about the number of such incidents.
IFA sheep chairman James Murphy said the frequency of dog attacks during the lambing season was “way too high and action must be taken by the Department of the Environment and the Department of Agriculture on the control of dogs and responsible dog ownership”.
He said he was aware of several cases of dog attacks happening on a weekly basis all over the country.
“Aside from the economic losses, for which dog owners can be held liable, the welfare implications for the flock can be very severe and long lasting,” Mr Murphy said. “Sheep never fully recover from a dog attack and can suffer ongoing difficulties, including reproduction problems and increased nervousness affecting their general health.”
Farmers are being encouraged to call 01-426 0340 to report dog attacks so that a national database is built up. “This information will be used in the IFA campaign to get movement on dog control and responsible dog ownership,” Mr Murphy said.
Under the Control of Dogs Act, if a dog attacks livestock the owner can be found guilty of an offence. The law also states that farmers are entitled to take whatever steps are necessary to protect their sheep against marauding dogs on their lands.