Report sought on action being taken against unauthorised dog breeders in Mayo

A MAYO councillor wants to know what action is being taken to detect unauthorised dog breeding facilities in the county.

The issue was raised at a meeting of the county council yesterday in a motion tabled by Councillor Damien Ryan who asked for an update on the work of the dog wardens in Mayo, with special emphasis on detecting unauthorised breeding facilities, as well as welfare inspections and monitoring of increased canine concentration in our urban areas.

Councillor Ryan was told there are 16 premises registered under the Dog Breeding Establishment Act in Mayo.

The Act requires dog owners with six or more bitches over six months old and capable of breeding to register with Mayo County Council's veterinary department.

These premises are inspected at minimum annually, prior to renewal of registration. There is also an additional unannounced programme carried out on a risk basis.

Legislation on the sale and supply of pet animals came into operation in February 2020, with the Department of Agriculture responsible for its enforcement. Anyone who sells or supplies six or more pet animals in a year must apply to be entered on a register, with their premises also registered.

There are two dog warden posts in Mayo. One position has been vacant for some time and arrangements are being made to recruit a warden, Councillor Ryan was told by way of written reply.

Due to Covid-19, some aspects of dog control activities have been curtailed over the last number of months to protect staff and the public.

The service continues to engage with the public, responding to all queries. It is proposed that the service will make a presentation to the council in the near future.