Sheep farmers seek mandatory micro-chipping of dogs

The Irish Cattle and Sheepfarmers Association is demanding the introduction of mandatory micro-chipping for dogs.

The call comes amid controversy surrounding a Co Monaghan farmer who shot a dog that was attacking his sheep earlier this week.

The farmer subsequently hung the dog's remains from a fencepost along with a sign asking if anyone could identify its owner.

The ICSA is now calling for legislation that would see microchips attached to all dogs so their owners can be traced.

It also wants on-the-spot fines for the owners of dogs found wandering without their owners near farms.