Freagrachtaí Úinéir

Responsible Dog Ownership

1. Dog License
2. Dog ID badge and collar
3. Dog Fouling
4. Responsibile Dog Ownership

Dog Licence
An individual  Dog Licence costs €20.00 and must be renewed each year. An on-the-spot fine of €30 may be issued by the Dog Warden to any dog owner unable to produce an up-to-date licence. Licences may be purchased at any Post Office. A General Dog Licence for an unlimited number of  dogs costs €400. From January 2012,  a new lifetime Dog Licence is also available at a cost of €140. The Dog Warden carries out ongoing licence checks in all areas on a regular basis.

Dog ID
Every dog must have a collar with the owner’s name and address inscribed on a disc or on a badge . Failure to do this may result in an on-the-spot fine of €30. This will help if your dog is lost or stolen.  These can be bought at various veterinary surgeries and pet shops. 

Dog Fouling

Dog dirt is smelly, sticky, disgusting and can cause disease. Under the Litter Pollution Acts 1997-2003, dog-owners are required to clean up after their dog fouls in a public place such as public roads, footpaths, parks and beaches.  Failure to do so can result in an on-the-spot fine of €150.  It is as easy as taking a bag with you every time you walk your dog in a public place. Simply place the bag over the faeces and lift it while pulling the bag downwards with your other hand. Tie a knot in the bag and dispose of in a litter bin or take it home for disposal. Alternatively, Pooper Scoopers are available free of charge in all County Council offices.
For more information on Scoop the Poop leaflet (Adobe.pdf, 77 kbs) , click on image entitled ‘ Dog Dirt causes Disease’ on the right.

Responsible Dog Ownership

Owning a dog is a big responsibility and should not be entered into lightly. Whether you already own a dog or are considering getting a dog, you should consider the following points :

• Choose a dog that is right for you and your circumstances. Different breeds and ages of dog will have different requirements  in relation to exercise, space, food, grooming, veterinary attention etc.
  
  
• Vaccinate your dog and don’t forget a booster vaccination every year following the initial vaccination.  This will protect your dog against potentially fatal canine diseases such as Parvovirus or Distemper.
  
  
• Worm your dog regularly. Every 3 months is recommended. This will prevent worms such as Toxocara which can cause disease in dogs and more importantly in humans particularly young children.
  
  
• Buy a licence for your dog at your local post office and renew it annually.
  
  
• Have your dog neutered (whether male or female) if you do not intend to breed from it.  Most veterinary practices operate the Dogs’ Trust Subsidised Neutering Scheme for those receiving Social Welfare benefits.
  
  
• Ensure your dog gets appropriate exercise.
  
  
• Ensure your dog is fed appropriately and that clean water is always available.
  
  
• Ensure your dog has appropriate shelter.
  
  
• Clean up after your dog if it fouls in a public place.
  
  
• Keep your dog under control at all times.
  
  
• Ensure your dog has a collar with your name and address on it. If your dog gets lost, this will help re-unite you with your pet.