Dog owners, listen up: Major awareness campaign reminds dog owners of responsibilities 

A major national awareness campaign has been launched by the government to remind dog owners of their responsibilities.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, launched the campaign entitled 'It’s not your dog’s fault, it’s yours'. It is aimed at increasing awareness of the harm that out of control dogs can do to people and to livestock. 

“Being a dog owner is a privilege, but it comes with a lot of responsibilities. We have seen far too many devastating attacks by dogs on people, especially young children, in recent times,” said Minister Humphreys.

“I know the majority of dog owners are responsible and do the right thing. But we can all be guilty of thinking our dog wouldn’t hurt a fly.

“Dog owners must make sure their dog is under control at all times, not running wild endangering people, livestock or other dogs. I want this campaign to make people think twice about letting their dog loose and uncontrolled,” she said.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD welcomed the campaign, sharing his hope that it will encourage wider conversations on dog owner responsibilities.

“I am acutely aware of the devastation done to livestock by marauding dogs, causing terrible suffering to the animals and both emotional and financial distress to farming families.

“I believe it is essential we have conversations about responsible dog ownership and while dogs are a great addition to a home and a family, owners must take their responsibilities seriously,” Minister McConalogue.

This campaign follows closely from a series of related initiatives:

• Increases in on-the-spot fines up to €300
• Additional €2m to support dog pounds
• The establishment of the Dog Control Stakeholder Group

The Stakeholder Group was established by Minister Humphreys in March and is independently chaired by retired Deputy Garda Commissioner, John Twomey.

The Group includes a broad range of experts who have been tasked with reviewing existing policy in relation to dog control and breeding establishments.

The media campaign will run until the end of May.