Nostalgic Dog Control Campaign

Nostalgic Dog Control Campaign Proves To Be Successful

Unfortunately, Co. Wicklow along with many farmers nationwide suffered from a number of very serious sheep attacks this year resulting in fatalities and the maiming of flocks.

Wicklow Uplands Council continues to advocate strongly for responsible dog control and recently opted to try a nostalgic approach to share the message of dog control across the internet. By reintroducing the Department of Agriculture’s ‘Bonzo Wants to Go Out’ ad to build an awareness campaign seeking dog owners’ assistance in preventing sheep attacks, the Uplands Council was surprised to discover that they had created an instant hit on social media. First aired on RTE in 1984, the animated ad was remembered by many, most especially for its effective closing line ‘Keep your dog under control – running free, he can be a killer’

The local media, also keen to support the message, took note of the online success, publishing several articles on the campaign and the need for greater awareness by both dog owners residing in the vicinity and those visiting farmland areas during the lambing season.

As the number of recreational users in the Wicklow uplands continues to grow, upland farmers are finding uncontrolled dogs to be a serious challenge. Uncontrolled dogs, even with playful intent may cause great distress to livestock and can cause serious injury or a fatality. Sheep can become stuck in wire or holes and easily break legs on uneven ground when being chased. Anxiety can also result in sheep fatalities, even up to 2 – 3 days after being chased.

Wicklow Uplands Council stresses that dog owners should respect signage advising where dogs are not welcome and to keep dogs on a leash at all times in areas where sheep are present, most especially during lambing season.

According to the Irish Farmers Association, an estimated 300 – 400 attacks occur nationwide each year which results in up to 4,000 sheep being killed or suffering serious injury. Perhaps it is now time for a fully funded nationwide campaign to address this very serious issue – something the Wicklow Uplands Council would very much welcome and offer its complete support of.

Further information on the policies and advice of Wicklow Uplands Council can be found on our website: www.wicklowuplands.ie