Cllr Burgess encounters some sheep on a recent election canvass
The Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council Cllr Declan Burgess is appealing to dog owners to ensure their pets are under control at all times. The Councillor is highlighting that lambing season is now underway and that ewes and lambs are particularly vulnerable during this time.
Dog attacks are cause of worry to farmers and can lead to serious harm and loss. Dog owners can be held legally liable for losses caused due to death of sheep, vet bills and fallen animal collections. Farmers can also shoot a dog on their land if they consider it a threat to their livestock.
The Irish Farmers Association(IFA) recently renewed their annual “No Dogs Allowed” Campaign and wants the Government to do more to ensure responsible Dog ownership.
The farming body wants a single National Database for all dogs correlating licensing and microchipping and full enforcement of microchipping and licensing obligations of dog owners for all dogs. In addition, dog wardens and Gardaí need stronger powers of enforcement with increased on the spot fines for failing to comply with the microchipping and licensing requirements and for dogs found worrying livestock. The farmers propose that Vets cannot care for a dog unless it is microchipped and licensed and that all regulations apply to dogs even if the owner lives across the border.
