ICSA member Sean McNamara has lost 40 ewes as a result of dog attacks occurring in the middle of the night in the past six weeks, the association has reported. “The situation is getting worse. Unfortunately we lose some every year, but this year has been the worst by far,” Sean said. “It’s very distressing to come down in the morning and see the destruction and injury that these attacks can cause.”

The farmer added that many other ewes were aborting following the attacks, compounding his losses. While there have been local efforts to encourage dog owners to keep their pets under control, he said that “the message doesn’t seem to be getting through to everyone”.

ICSA sheep chair John Brooks has called for a review of the existing dog microchipping obligation. “Even when dogs are caught or in some instances shot following an attack, identifying the owner remains problematic. The issue arises when dogs are sold and the details are not being updated with the microchipping agencies,” Brooks said.