LIMERICK City and County Council has been asked to instruct dog wardens in Newcastle West to undertake regular patrols of public areas in the district.
The call came from Fianna Fáil councillor Michael Collins who said he also wants dog owners to be made aware of their responsibilities to keep their dogs secured on leads when in a public area.
In response, Council Administrative Officer Shane O’Doherty said that the dog wardens carry out patrols in Newcastle West as resources allow. He explained that enforcement activity was driven by complaints received and the capture of stray dogs.
“Owners are required under the Dog Control Act to have their dogs under ‘effectual control’. Dogs are only required to be on leads if they are restricted breeds as defined in the Act,” he told Cllr Collins.
“All dog licence holders are sent a reminder on the duties as a dog owner when the renew their dog licence. This includes highlighting their responsibilities on dog control and on cleaning up after their dog.”
Council members were told that a joint operation between the Gardaí and dog wardens has been organised to target the Newcastle West Greenway entrance to both enforce and raise awareness of dog control responsibilities along the route.
“We intend to repeat this a number of times a year.
“There is a new Dog Control Working Group and we await their final recommendations. It is anticipated that there will be many positive changes recommended which will help local councils in enforcing dog control in their functional areas.”
