“Gardaí Investigate Sheep Killed in Co. Laois Dog Attack; Owners Reminded of Responsibility”

Accident – death – Obituary News : Gardaí are currently investigating a dog attack that resulted in the deaths of several sheep in the Emo area of Portlaoise, Co. Laois. The incident took place on Friday, January 12, at around 8:00 a.m. According to reports, there were multiple dogs involved in the attack.

An Garda Síochána in Laois Offaly have issued a statement urging dog owners to be mindful of the potential harm their pets can cause if left unsecured or allowed to roam freely. They stressed the importance of responsible dog ownership, including securing dogs, microchipping them, and registering them with a veterinarian. With lambing season underway, incidents of sheep kills due to dog attacks tend to increase during this time. The Gardaí emphasized the need for dog owners to keep their pets under effective control.

This recent incident in Portlaoise is not an isolated case. Another farmer in the Comeragh Mountains also experienced two dog attacks on his sheep. The first attack occurred just after Christmas, and the injured sheep was discovered in a field off the mountain. The second attack took place on Saturday, January 6, when a neighbor alerted the farmer to a sheep that had been attacked at the Mahon Falls. Given the vast expanse of the Comeragh Mountains, there is a possibility that other sheep have been attacked but have not yet been found.

In addition to the incidents in Portlaoise and the Comeragh Mountains, there have been reports of sheep killings in Rahogarty North, Brownsgrove, Co. Galway. Galway County Council has been informed of these attacks and has notified the dog warden service, the Gardaí, and the Irish Farmers Association (IFA). The dog warden service will be conducting door-to-door enquiries in the area, including licensing and microchipping checks, over the next few days.

Galway County Council has also issued a reminder to all dog owners to ensure that their dogs are never left unsupervised, particularly at night, and are always under control. Attacks on sheep can result in significant economic losses for farmers, and dog owners can be held liable under the Control of Dogs Act.

It is essential for dog owners to be aware of their responsibilities and take necessary precautions to prevent these tragic incidents from occurring. By securing their dogs, microchipping them, and keeping them under effective control, they can help protect both livestock and their own pets.

In conclusion, dog attacks on sheep have serious consequences for farmers and can be avoided through responsible dog ownership. The recent incidents in Portlaoise, the Comeragh Mountains, and Galway highlight the need for dog owners to be vigilant and take necessary measures to prevent such incidents. By doing so, they not only protect their pets but also safeguard the livelihoods of farmers and the welfare of livestock..