Man’s Best Friend

By ALANNAH O’CALLAGHAN

Dogs are truly valued companions for many, their loyalty and seemingly constant willingness to put a smile on their owner’s face are some of the reasons many prize them as important members of the family. Though sometimes man’s best friend can be a source of problems; missing slippers, muddy pawprints these things are annoying but generally harmless. However, dogs worrying livestock and other wildlife is not harmless, and unfortunately this problem continues to be an issue for farmers and landowners across the country.

The presence of dogs, even with playful intent, can cause great anxiety to farm animals and wildlife. Pregnant females and young animals are especially vulnerable. In sheep, anxiety caused by the presence of dogs during lambing season is the main cause of stillbirths and miscarriages. For wildlife, without successful breeding the populations of many of our native fauna e.g., hares and hedgehogs, will start to decline. It is also worth considering that there are many ground nesting birds e.g., hen harriers, around the Irish uplands, including parts of Duhallow, and dogs scare these species away. The key to avoiding any of the above problems is choosing an appropriate area to walk and exercise your dog and to keep your dog under control. Observe and respect local signage. In some areas landowners forbid dogs due to the above reasons, while in other areas landowners require dogs being on a leash, whatever the signages says please respect it. Remember that ignoring signage and the wishes of a landowner can lead to access being rescinded for all users, as was seen in Wicklow earlier this year.

Going into the summer months be mindful of others, enjoy and experience nature responsibility and respectfully, and share advice when it comes to dogs with others.