Aylward warns of attacks on sheep
He said each year, particularly around lambing time, dogs that are allowed to run free are a serious menace to sheep.
Even the family pet let loose in the countryside can cause great distress to sheep, including pregnant ewes and lambs.
Mr Aylward said it was essential everything possible should be done by dog owners to prevent such attacks. Stiff penalties are provided under the law for negligent dog owners.
They may be found liable for damages and costs in a civil action, and dogs may be shot by the owner of the animals subjected to attack. Failure by an owner to keep his/her dog under control can have serious financial and emotional impact on the dog owner and his/her family, in addition to the obvious effects on sheep and lambs and their owners.
Apart from the cruelty and distress suffered by livestock, the financial losses to farmers, and indeed the economy, can be considerable.
Mr Aylward appealed to all owners, particularly those living near farms, to ensure their dogs are kept under control particularly at night so suffering and death caused to sheep and lambs can be avoided.
He advised owners to contact their local authority if they require information on dog control, particularly licensing, or refer to the leaflet issued by the Environmental Information Service (ENFO).
