Public Consultation Process to Review Dog Control Measures Closes This Friday
Village Vets Urge Dog Lovers to Make Submissions
This summer, The Department of Rural and Community Development, responsible for the area of dog control in Ireland, launched a public consultation on dog control measures in Ireland. With an objective of reviewing the area to ensure an appropriate approach is put in place for the effective control of dogs throughout the country, the department is inviting members of the public to have their say on the matter, by submitting their views by Friday, 6th September.
Village Vets, a family run and owned clinic, encourages dog owners to make a change for the well-being of our furry friends.
Currently, there are no dog breeds that are banned in Ireland, instead, the current law, which was passed in 1998, imposes leashing and muzzling in public places on some breeds such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds and Dobermans.
Experts at Village Vets believe this approach is not fit for purpose. Research from other jurisdictions has repeatedly demonstrated that the breed is not a reliable predictor of behaviour and biting. In some cases, it does have an influence, but ultimately a dog's breeding environment and how they are reared has a greater influence on behavioural development. Therefore, Village Vets calls for new legislation which focuses on responsible dog ownership and educating the public on how best to interact with dogs.
Charles Cosgrave, MD of Village Vets comments: "At Village Vets we are committed to ensuring responsible pet ownership through our Puppy Contract initiative which helps buyers by giving them set questions related to the puppy’s background, health and welfare, which Village Vets believes any responsible seller should be happy to provide to buyers.In addition, we run numerous dog training and dog care courses each year. Overall, we feel legislation which incorporates measures such as these, allowing them to be rolled out nationally is the best approach for ensuring for more effective dog controls across Ireland.’
In addition to legislating for more responsible dog ownership, Village Vets believe the online sale of dogs must be subject to greater control. The Dublin and Meath based clinic is calling for measures which ensure any puppy can be traced back to the vendor which sold it. In addition, Village Vets believe all vendors and buyers should have to comply with a purchase contract. Measures which encourage accountability for vendors and purchasers alike are to be welcomed.
Village Vets also recommends that prospective pet owners do a recognized dog training or dog care course before and after they get their puppy. This would invariably take or happen over a period of six months. This course should cover training, physical care, socialization, and medical care of dogs.
Village Vets urge all dog owners to submit to make written submissions or comments on the questions asked, and to send them by email to: dogsconsultation@drcd.gov.ie by 5.30pm on Friday, 6th September, 2019.
The consultation paper is available here, or by visiting the consultation section of Gov.ie.
