Dog Control during lambing season

Dog owners are reminded of their responsibilities and the vulnerability of sheep to dog attacks, as lambing season approaches.

The issue is one of grave concern to the farming community and attacks on sheep are happening far too often in the rural countryside.

The latest figures compiled by local authorities show that there were 240 incidents of ‘Livestock Worrying’ in 2020 – with a similar number expected when the 2021 returns are completed.

Dog attacks cause serious injury or even death to sheep and can cause grave distress and financial loss for farm families.

For more information see Dog Control or Dog Control Statistics.

If you are concerned about incidents of animal neglect or cruelty you can contact the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Helpline at:

• call save: 0761 064408
• phone: 01-607 2379
• dedicated email address - animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie