Concerns voiced over dog fouling and dangerous breeds

Concerns about dog control, fouling, dangerous breeds and public awareness dominated the wide-ranging discussion that ensued following a presentation by council official Ambrose Clarke on the operation of the Dog Warden Service at the January meeting of Westmeath County Council.

Councillors broadly welcomed improvements to the service but raised serious concerns about dog attacks, irresponsible ownership and a lack of awareness of legal obligations in public spaces.

Cllr John Dolan expressed frustration that dog wardens do not have the legal power to pursue a dog into a private residence.

He recalled a distressing incident in Burgess Park, Athlone, where one dog savaged and killed another.

Cllr Dolan also spoke strongly about the impact of dog attacks on livestock, particularly sheep. “Any of us who have witnessed sheep that were attacked by dogs will never forget it,” he said, stressing that owners must be held responsible for the actions of their dogs.

Cllr Niall Gaffney queried what happens to dogs that are not claimed within five days and whether attacks on sheep should still be reported to the Gardaí as well as to dog wardens.

Dog fouling was raised forcefully by several councillors. Cllr Alfie Devine said it was a major issue on greenways, footpaths and in the new public parks, and called for clearer signage warning that dog fouling is an offence.

“I don’t think people are aware they’re actually committing an offence by allowing their dogs to foul and then walking away,” he said, describing the problem as widespread across the county.

Cllr Tom Farrell echoed those concerns, saying dog fouling and aggressive dogs had been persistent problems, particularly on greenways and in Moate it had even been a problem on the main street. He asked whether flashing or movable signage could be introduced, warning that dogs must be muzzled and on a lead. Cllr Farrell also suggested the council take an information stand at the Mullingar, Moate and Athlone agricultural shows to engage directly with dog owners.

Improvements at the dog pound were welcomed by Cllr Frankie Keena, who also raised concerns about dogs barking at night in housing estates. He asked how such complaints were handled, whether many prosecutions had been taken, and what income had been generated from fines. Cllr Keena also queried whether microchips could be removed.

Responding, Mr Clarke of section said councillors had raised many constructive suggestions but emphasised that the Dog Warden Service remains a small team whose primary duty is dog control.

The service now operates seven days a week, though not on a 24-hour basis, and focuses on visible patrols rather than responding only to individual complaints, he said.

Mr Clarke confirmed wardens cannot enter private residences but will engage directly with owners. Dogs are generally held for five days before rehoming, though some remain longer depending on circumstances. He said attacks on livestock should be reported first to the Gardaí, with the council assisting as required.

On dog fouling and signage, Mr Clarke said the council is rolling out programmable audio warning devices at greenways and public amenities and is open to changing messages based on councillor feedback. He also confirmed that QR codes, additional bins, social media messaging, and attendance at agricultural shows are being actively explored.

He said the council is working closely with volunteer groups to rehome dogs quickly and reiterated that enforcement is a last resort. “We don’t want to be going to court in the first instance — we want people to do what’s right,” he said.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme