Sheep farmers must be extra vigilant against dog attacks over the coming days, with at least one attack reported in the wake of last week’s snow.

Over half a dozen sheep were killed in an attack near Kilrush, Co Wexford on Sunday night. The evidence suggested that large dogs were involved. Another flock owner nearby is understood to have also lost a sheep to dogs.

Dog compounds may have been damaged by the snowfall in a number of ways. Drifts of snow against walls or fences could have allowed dogs to simply walk out over them. Walls could have collapsed, or fences and gates have been broken down by the weight of snow. Electric fences or electronic collars could have been disabled by the snow.

Lambing

With lowland sheep currently at peak lambing, and mountain flocks within a month or so of lambing, farmers will need to guard against dog attacks.

The silver lining for the Wexford attack on Sunday is that no pregnant animals were involved. It was fattening hoggets that were attacked.

Anyone with dogs should check the secure area they are normally contained in to ensure that it has survived the recent snow unscathed.

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Dog attack threat heightened following snow

Farmers need to be aware that dogs may not be secure following the recent period of bad weather.