Dog attacks leave west Donegal farmers 'reeling' amid lambing season
Sheep farmers in west Donegal have been left "reeling" after a serious dog attack on two separate flocks in the Falcarragh area, which has resulted in the loss of lambs and the death of one ewe.
The incident occurred late on Friday evening (February 27) and only came to light when one of the affected farmers went to check on his flock.
Upon discovering the damage inflicted upon their sheep, the farmer alerted a neighbour, whose flock had also been attacked in a separate field nearby.
One ewe was "torn apart" to death during the attack, according to local councillor Michael McClafferty.
Cllr McClafferty highlighted the incident as a "very serious" issue and confirmed to Agriland that at least two dogs were involved, which are believed to be responsible for both attacks.
He noted that the attack has "really terrorised" the remaining flocks, with many ewes suffering miscarriages as a result during this busy lambing season.
"The farmers were expecting those sheep to lamb naturally in about two weeks' time," McClafferty said.
"That is not happening at the moment; they are actually passing dead lambs now, it's ridiculous."
In the wake of this attack, the local councillor has called for owners to be more responsible with their pets, especially if they are walking their dogs in an unfamiliar area.
Dog owners
McClafferty told Agriland that when it comes to responsibility, pet owners should treat their dogs "no different to a child."
"You wouldn't let your child run riot or get into dangerous situations so why would you let your dog do the same thing?"
McClafferty also noted there has been "many instances of visitors landing" around Falcarragh who do not put their dogs on leads.
He said: "We have had so many instances around here of people landing with dogs.
"Once the car door opens, the dog runs out - no collar, no lead - and next thing you know, he's away after the sheep.
According to McClafferty, pet owners should keep their dog on a leash when out for a walk as many dogs will not respond to their name once they start chasing livestock.
He commented: "Most dogs are not trained in that fashion to come back when you call them.
"They don't have a clue what the owners are talking about; the owner can call their name until they are hoarse, but the dog will not stop chasing."
The councillor advised owners to be mindful of where their dogs are at all times, especially if they are being kept near fields with livestock.
