Wicklow
Uplands Council is considering offering support to farmers in the use of signage restricting access to walkers with dogs on private land where
sheep are present. This move comes in an effort to alleviate the negative
impacts of uncontrolled dogs at key hotspots where recreational use is high and
sheep are present including Glenmalure, Glendalough, Glenmacnass and
Lugnaquilla. This is with a view to promoting a consistent message to ask recreational
users to respect grazing animals, wildlife and other recreational users and
leave their dogs at home. The message is in keeping with the policies of
Tinahely Community Projects (on their hill walks), Mountaineering Ireland, and the National Defence
Force which owns land on the western approach to Lugnaquilla.
Uncontrolled dogs are a serious threat
to the livelihood of upland farmers. Dogs loose on the hills cause anxiety
within a flock of sheep often causing them to be displaced and get stuck in
rough ground and vegetation. One of the impacts that is often unseen by
recreational users is the early abortion of lambs and in the worst incidences;
dogs directly attack sheep causing them severe injury or death. This is not
just a problem for the landowner in terms of their livelihood but it is also a
serious animal welfare issue. The problem is not limited to walker’s dogs with damage
often being caused by local dogs which stray from neighbouring properties and
their owners are unaware of their whereabouts. To prevent such occurrences
please ensure that your dog is secure.
Dog owners also need to be aware
of other people walking. Whether it is tourists, locals or visitors to the area
many people are genuinely frightened of dogs. It can become very unpleasant to
be confronted by a dog especially if they bark or come too close to people.
Dogs can also become very nervous of people particularly if they have walking
poles or sticks which often cause distress to the dog.
Walkers are welcome in County
Wicklow but please respect local signage and leave dogs at home if you intend
to access land where livestock are present. There are many places that are
suitable for dog walking across the county including Coillte forests but please
remember that dogs must be under ‘effectual control’ in these areas. This means
that they will return to their owner when called.
If you witness an incident of
sheep worrying or damage to livestock please report it immediately to: Wicklow
County Council Ph: 0404 20236 or Email: env@wicklowcoco.ie. If you see a stray dog
in the hills please report it immediately to the ISPCA Dog Warden Service Ph: 0404 44873.
Author: Tommy Healy, Hill Sheep Farmer &Chairman of WUC’s Dog
Control Subcommittee
