The escalating number of dog attacks on livestock needs urgent intervention.
The Irish Farmers' Association says the attacks in Roscommon, Sligo and Tipperary this week have led to significant losses for farmers. It says they aren't isolated incidents but part of a worrying trend that devastates sheep farmers across the country.
IFA Sheep Chairman Adrian Gallagher says dog owners need to prevent it from happening.
Adrian Gallagher said farmers are losing patience with the authority’s inactive response on the issue and said there is urgent need to strengthen legislation by implementing the necessary controls to tackle the issue of irresponsible dog ownership immediately. He said Its time the authorities step up and recognise the gravity of the situation and take immediate and decisive action to address the issue.
Dog owners are been reminded that they should take heed that they are fully liable for any damages caused to sheep by their dogs. The IFA National Sheep Chair said dogs are not allowed in or near farmland and stressed the need for responsible conduct among dog owners to ensure the safety of farmers livestock
