Warning to dog owners over sheep attacks

THE worrying number of attacks on sheep by dogs in Mayo over the last few weeks has been highlighted by the IFA and Mayo County Council.

The attacks have resulted in sheep and lambs dying from their injuries, lambs being aborted and stock not thriving.

Statistics collated by the IFA indicate that the problem of dog attacks on sheep may be in the order of 300 to 400 attacks per annum, with 3,000 to 4,000 sheep injured and killed.

The IFA's national sheep chairman, Mayo's John Lynskey, has warned dog owners that their pets can inflict horrendous damage on a flock and owners can be held responsible for the losses involved, with serious financial and legal consequences. They are responsible for ensuring their pets are under control at all times.

He said the country’s 34,000 sheep farmers are currently lambing down 2.4 million ewes. Pregnant ewes on the point of lambing are particularly vulnerable to dog attacks.

Mr. Lynskey reminded all dog owners, including farmers, that since March 31 all dogs must be microchipped and registered.

Mayo County Council’s dog warden, Laura Murphy, added: “It is important in rural areas, particularly where there is livestock, that dogs are not allowed wander or be off leads. Dog owners should be extra vigilant when walking dogs in areas of commage.”

The IFA has developed a 10-step protocol for farmers who encounter a dog attack on their sheep flock: stop the dogs; follow the law; inform the gardaí; ring the dog warden; contact the IFA; ring the vet; keep the evidence/take a picture; get a valuation of losses; inform your insurance company; and tell your sheep farming neighbours.