256 dogs in Offaly dog shelter so far this year

256 dogs were taken care of at the Offaly dog shelter in 2023. 40 of those were rehomed, 33 were reclaimed and 174 were rehomed by dog welfare charity partners. The remainder continue to be looked after at the shelter.

Ann Dillon, Director of Services at Offaly County Council gave her report at this week's meeting of the Joint Policing Committee.

Ms Dillon said the council had received 61 complaints during that period and the ''control of dogs team'' continue to patrol known black spots in Tullamore to investigate and manage issues in relation to the control of dogs,'' she said.

In relation to the control of horses, Ann Dillon said that Offaly County Council dealt with 21 complaints so far in 2023, this resulted in the seizure of 11 horses and donkeys and all the incidents are under investigation, she said.

Councillor John Carroll remarked that it was sad to see that there are so many issues with dogs. He said this time of year is very worrying for farmers with sheep. He asked if the responsibility for dogs is solely down to the council or do the gardai have an input.

Ms Dillon said there is legislation but the statutory responsibility lies with Offaly County Council.

According to the Offaly County Council website.

''Stray dogs are dogs that are in a public place and are not accompanied by the owner or a responsible person. Dogs that are not under proper control are also considered stray dogs.

You can receive an on-the-spot fine if your dog is not under proper control. Stray dogs may be seized by the dog warden and the Gardai and brought to the local dog pound. These dogs may be put down or disposed of if their owners do not claim them within 5 days.

If your dog has strayed or is missing, you should contact the local dog pound directly to check whether or not your dog has been picked up.

Before you pick up your dog, you will have to pay a re-claim fee and produce a current dog licence. If you do not have a current dog licence, you must obtain one from your local post office before collecting your dog.

Local authorities and the Gardai are required to keep a register of dogs seized by them and dogs detained by other people and notified to them. You can inspect this register at the offices of your local authority or in your local Garda station.''