Owners devastated after seven sheep killed in attack
Seven sheep in Leitir, near Kingscourt, died as a result of a suspected dog attack last week.
Two of the dry hogget sheep were killed on the farm on the night of Tuesday, July 18, and five others had to be put down due to their injuries.
Three more required veterinary attention, and the remaining animals were either left injured or seriously traumatised by the attack.
Monica Reilly, whose husband Alan owns the sheep, described the incident as 'devastating'.
“The vet said the remainder of the flock will never be the same again, and we will have to get rid of them.
“Alan bred them himself and is very upset by the ordeal. He hasn't slept since,” shared Monica. “He has more sheep across the road from where the attack took place and is constantly checking them throughout the night.”
Monica expects the cost of the attack to be significant.
“The hoggets were worth €160 each, it costs €20 for each animal to be taken away by the knackery, and we've had three vet visits, which we haven't paid yet, but there might be more callouts. At the minute we're looking at costs of €1,500-€1,600, but it could be more.”
The Department of Agriculture, announced in May the development of a responsible pet ownership campaign due to increases in dog “aggression and sheep worrying”.
This is the latest attack reported in the region.
The Department says it is working with the advisory council to develop the campaign, which aims to educate people on “how to keep and manage a dog appropriately”.
Responsible
Gardaí in Bailieborough confirmed they are investigating a report of a sheepkill in the Leiter area recently. They further issued a reminder to dog owners of their obligations under the Control of Dogs Act 1986 to keep their dogs under control and not allow them to roam.
"By being responsible can avoid unnecessary savagery to defencless sheep and their lambs. The dog owner can be held liable for damages and could face prosecution.
"So please we are calling on all dog owners to know where your dog is at all times and not to let them roam freely."