New awareness campaign urges owners to keep dogs 'under proper control'
A new major national awareness campaign has been launched today (Monday, March 24) to highlight to people who own dogs that they must be responsible for their pets.
The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine, Martin Heydon unveiled details of the campaign which aims to "address the harm that uncontrolled dogs can do to people and to livestock".
Minister Calleary said:" In the vast majority of cases, dog owners are very responsible, care greatly for their dogs and do their best to ensure they are kept under control.
“The problem is that some dog owners think their dog can do no harm.
"The harsh reality is that, occasionally, uncontrolled dogs cause serious harm to children, livestock and other dogs in towns and villages across the country".
According to Minister Calleary the campaign wants to promote responsible dog ownership and also "make sure everyone is clear about their legal requirements".
“Dog owners must be aware that if your dog injures people or animals, you are responsible.
“The main message here is your dog is your responsibility," he added
Meanwhile Minister Heydon said he especially wants the campaign to make people think twice about letting their dog loose and uncontrolled.
“We have to remember that dog owners have serious responsibilities in every setting, but a particular focus is needed in rural areas where we are currently in lambing season.
“The harm that out-of-control dogs can do to sheep and lambs is financially and emotionally devastating for farm families.
“There can be zero tolerance for people who do not keep their dogs under proper control," Minister Heydon warned.
The latest awareness campaign will run from March 24 until April 20, 2025.
From December 1, 2023 pet owners who do not have ‘effectual control’ of their dog have been liable for an on-the-spot fine of €300.
The government has also committed to the recruitment of up to 40 additional dog wardens this year.
Separately an Garda Síochána has also issued a clear warning to dog owners that farmers are “within their rights to shoot any animal” that is worrying sheep or other livestock.
Gardaí have urged owners not to allow their dogs to roam and to also “keep dogs away from lambing ewes as they are easily distressed”.
“Should your dog attack animals on someone’s land, you could be held liable for the damages and you could also face prosecution,” gardaí in Donegal warned in a social media post.
