Council Dog Warden unit take part in joint Garda exercise

Louth County Council Dog Warden unit conducted a joint exercise with An Garda Síochána in north Louth over the Bank Holiday weekend, to remind owners and dog walkers of their responsibilities when walking in the Cooley mountains, and rural areas in general, where sheep and other livestock may be present.

The exercise, which took place on Sunday 19th March, was part of an awareness raising campaign during lambing season. Other events are being planned as part of the campaign over the coming weeks.

Gardai and Louth County wardens met with dog owners in a number of popular walking locations including Ballymakellet, Glenmore, Long Woman’s Grave, Sliabh Foy, Mountain Park, Carlingford and at the Greenway, Carlingford.

Louth County Veterinarian, Garrett Shine explained the background to the campaign: “Dog owners have legal responsibilities under the Control of Dogs Act 1986, as amended, which provides for the protection of livestock from worrying by dogs, and where dogs are found to worry livestock this can result in the owner committing and being found guilty of an offense which can includes fines and/or prison.”

Dog walkers were reminded that when outside the home they must legally ensure that their dogs are under ‘effectual’ control at all times.

When visiting commonage or farm areas, all dog owners should observe and respect local signage around entry and leads, and it is recommended that dogs are left at home if accessing land where livestock are present or close by during the lambing season.

“We would like to thank our colleagues in An Garda Síochána  for their assistance on the day, and also the hikers and dog walkers, where all bar one had their dogs properly micro-chipped and fully under control,” said Garrett.

“Louth County Council would like to take this opportunity to remind all people walking dogs in any rural environment to be very mindful of farm animals and to keep their dogs under strict control at all times. It is recommended to keep them on a secure lead in areas livestock may be present.”

Dog warden unit in joint Garda exercise