Concern at dogs off leads in Donegal beauty spots - Donegal News

CONCERNS have been raised over dogs not being kept on leads in Donegal as it has been claimed that loose dogs are driving sheep over cliffs.

CONCERNS have been raised over dogs not being kept on leads in Donegal as it has been claimed that loose dogs are driving sheep over cliffs.

Independent Cllr Michael McClafferty says dogs off the lead have been causing issues in Donegal’s beauty spots including Horn Head and Dunfanaghy.

“They’re chasing sheep at will up at the look out post area on the very top of Horn Head where it’s popular with walkers and hikers,” said Cllr McClafferty.

“While everybody’s welcome to come and enjoy amenities we have around the area to offer plus their dogs on leads and muzzles if need be, respect works two ways.

“Farmers allow the public to walk on their grounds at several points of Horn Head at gate entrances. But when dogs are loose chasing sheep over the rocks as recent times have shown, sheep and lambs are getting washed onto Falcarragh and Dunfanaghy beaches.”

Cllr McClafferty claimed that one farmer recently lost 16 sheep driven off the rocks by two dogs.

“One can only imagine what that farmer went through mentally and emotionally as a result, plus thousands of financial loss due to a dog owner being careless with their dogs,” said Cllr McClafferty.

“Down the road a little to the Calum Friel park, in football fields it’s the same situation dogs running freely off leads along the walk to Tramore beach area.

“Locals who have their dogs on leads it’s a shared walk have been verbally abused in recent times here as well. If they mention to put your dog on its lead, a rage of abuse follows.

“I’d appeal to everybody regardless who it is, let it be Horn Head, Doe Castle, Muckish Railway Walk. On beaches keep your dogs on a lead and well behaved and if that can’t be done leave them at home or consider your options. Be honest with yourself and the dog.”

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