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Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, have today (22 December 2023) launched a ‘Responsible Dog Ownership’ leaflet, designed to raise awareness about the responsibilities of dog owners.
This leaflet highlights in a clear and accessible way, the legal obligations and costs that may be associated with dog ownership and reminds the public to think carefully when taking on the commitment.
Speaking today, Minister Humphreys urged families and individuals to carefully consider all the implications of taking on a new pet:
“Christmas is a particular time of year where people decide to take on the responsibility of owning a dog or puppy. It may sound like a cliche at this stage but it rings true - a dog is for life not just for Christmas. Dogs can bring so much joy to families and particularly children. But we should never take them for granted. So today I am encouraging anyone who is thinking of getting a dog this Christmas to remember they are a long term commitment. And if you own a dog, you must be responsible for him or her, look after them and also consider the costs that are involved.”
Minister McConalogue agreed saying:
“Dogs can be wonderful companions, enriching our lives in many ways but dog ownership is also a significant commitment. In addition, dogs can live for many years, during which time a responsible owner will need to devote time to taking care of their pet, providing for all their needs, and will spend substantial sums of money over the years on feed, veterinary costs, dog licensing, microchipping and other expenses. Anyone intending on getting a dog needs to be sure they can give their pet the care it deserves.”
Minister Humphreys concluded:
“If you are getting a dog this Christmas or at any time of the year, please consider what dog matches your lifestyle and home circumstances. Read this new information leaflet or speak to a local vet about what this commitment will look like. Our pounds and shelters are under pressure not just at Christmas but all year round. So please speak to the staff at your local shelter or pound - they are best placed to provide you with the information you need.”
The new leaflet, which was written in consultation with charities and stakeholders, is the latest in a series of measure undertaken by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine; and the Department of Rural and Community Development, in seeking to tackle issues of dog control and welfare.
Minister McConalogue and Minister Humphreys are committed to the continued overhaul of dog policy and legislation in collaboration with the local authorities in the months ahead, with funding secured for a large scale responsible dog ownership campaign during 2024.
Copies of the leaflet have also been distributed to local authority dog control services, veterinary practices and animal welfare charities across the country.
Suite of new measures announced in November to enhance Dog Control:
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, recently announced funding of €6 million to 101 animal welfare charities nationwide - an increase of €200,000 on last year. This year, there was an additional focus on supporting charities involved in rehoming dogs. This recognises that 2023 has been a particularly challenging year in terms of dog welfare and for those working to rescue, protect and rehome dogs.
The Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) is responsible for policy and legislation regarding dog control and dog breeding establishments. Under the Control of Dogs Act 1986, Local Authorities have responsibility for all operational activities including enforcement matters. Local Authorities have the power to appoint dog wardens, provide dog shelters, seize dogs, impose on-the-spot fines and take court proceedings against owners. Each year the Department of Rural and Community Development publishes statistics on a range of dog-control related activities of local authorities.
Convened in early 2023, the Cross-Government Working Group on Control of Dogs published their report in March. It contained a number of wide-ranging recommendations to improve dog control in Ireland, including, inter alia, improvements to dog control infrastructure and equipment in local authority dog facilities. The report of the Working Group on the Control of Dogs is available.