IFA warns on dog threat to sheep

DOGS that are allowed to roam freely in the countryside can inflict horrific damage on sheep flocks, farmers warned yesterday.

The Irish Farmers Association (IFA) called on all dog owners to ensure that their pets are kept under full control at all times.

Sheep committee chairman Henry Burns said at this time of the year up to 3m breeding sheep are lambing down on 34,000 sheep farms across the country. “A dog attack on a sheep flock at this time can inflict immense damage in terms of both animal welfare and financial consequence,” he said.