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My dog escaped from my garden, and a local farmer saw her in one of his fields. He told me that he’d shoot her if he sees her there again. Is he allowed to do this?
Q
My dog escaped from my garden, and a local farmer saw her in one of his fields, near sheep but not chasing them.
He told me that he’d shoot her if he sees her there again.
Is he allowed to do this?
A
Under Irish Law (Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act, 1960), a farmer is allowed to shoot dogs that are on his land if they are worrying livestock.
The farmer is then obliged to notify the shooting to An Garda Síochána within forty-eight hours.
To protect your dog, it’s your responsibility to make sure that she never again escapes from your garden.
If you are worried about your pet's health, visit the Petfix DIY Triage Checker or talk to your vet as soon as possible.