Wicklow sheep farmers are facing an increasingly difficult lambing season with a notable increase in dog attacks compared to previous years.

Three sheep were killed on a farm in Rathdrum recently, with a further eight animals injured.

Meanwhile, an Alsatian spotted chasing sheep in Roundwood on Monday was captured. The dog's owner has since been identified and the gardaí are investigating the matter.

Chris Hill, Chairman of the Wicklow branch of the IFA, said farmers are being put under increasing pressure by loose dogs which are attacking sheep stock, with farmers already having to cope with one of the poorest springs on record.

'This is an ongoing story but unfortunately some dog owners remain careless and negligent with their pets. There is a huge onus and responsibility on pet owners and they should know where their animals are at all times,' said Mr Hill.

'This has been one of the worst springs ever encountered, weather-wise. The last thing farmers need is for their sheep to be killed by someone's "friendly" pet,' he said.

Three sheep were found dead in the Rathdrum area on the morning of Monday, March 26, having been attacked overnight. Another eight sheep were found with severe wounds.

'Lambing season is such an important time of the year for farmers. If they lose their lambs then they have nothing to sell. If they lose some ewes, then they are suffering a double loss,' said Mr Hill.

'There can also be difficulties in birth with the sheep traumatised by the attack. Any dog attack can have very far reaching consequences for a farmer. Even if a dog is just chasing sheep, it can still have disastrous results. The ewes may mislay their young lambs in the chase and then can't find them, resulting in the lambs dying of hunger. This is the busiest time of the year for sheep farmers. They have already suffered because of the weather so the last thing they need is further disruption. There has definitely been an increase in dog attacks this year.'

Earlier this year, a sheep farmer in Enniskerry lost 15 of his flock after they were attacked by a husky dog which managed to break free from its harness while being walked.

Wicklow People