Monaghan Sheep Committee Chairman Eamon Markey said all dog owners must
ensure that their pets are under full control at all times and not allowed
roam freely in the countryside where they can inflict horrific damage on a
sheep flock.

Speaking following what was described as a ‘pure savage’ attack on a flock
in Co. Westmeath last week, Eamon Markey said, “23 ewes and 32 lambs were
killed. Many more lambs were left orphaned and the entire flock
 traumatised.”

Eamon Markey said a dog attack on a sheep flock at this time of the year can
inflict immense damage in terms of animal welfare and financial consequence.

The IFA Sheep Chairman said, “Dog owners must be particularly vigilant in
ensuring that their pets are securely housed at night.  Attacks from a
number of dogs hunting together at night are an all too common feature in
the countryside.”

IFA is calling on all dog owners to ensure that their animals are under full
control at all times and particularly at night.  Dog owners should be aware
that under the ‘Control of Dogs Act’, they can be held liable for any
financial damage inflicted on a sheep flock from an attack by their dog.

Eamon Markey pointed out under the law it is not an offence for farmers to
shoot marauding dogs threatening their flocks.  “The responsibility for
marauding dogs rests with the dog owners and it is their clear duty to
ensure that their dogs are under control at all times.”