ARNEY man, Alexis Maguire, has spoken out urging dog owners to be mindful of the whereabouts  of their pets. The plea comes after Mr Maguire claims he intervened while a dog was ‘worrying’ a ewe and two lambs. 

Speaking about the incident he explained, “On Friday night (July 19) I noticed a ewe and two lambs up against a wall, a dog was worrying them. The dog was biting and snapping at me but I put him out onto the road and closed the gate, then followed the dog back up to the owners house.” 

Mr Maguire said that thankfully on this occasion ‘there was no blood’ but added that there had been problems with dogs attacking sheep for a number of years. Outlining the impact of such incidents he said that it is often the farmer that picks up the pieces. 

For animals injured in attacks there are commonly veterinary bills, and there is also a price tag attached to the disposal of a dead animal. “It’s a big loss whenever you have to pay for the destruction of animals. Farmers are often at a loss.” 

For animals that do survive ‘worrying’, Mr Maguire noted, “They’re stressed and they don’t thrive after it.” He said that the latest incident had been reported to the Police and the local dog warden. 

A spokesman for the Council confirmed that the complaint was under investigation. 

“Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is aware of the complaint. As the matter is the subject of an ongoing investigation which may have legal implications, the Council is unable to comment further at this time.”

The spokesman added, “Fermanagh Omagh District Council would remind dog owners to act responsibly and ensure their dog is under control at all times.

Council Dog Wardens respond to all incidents of dog worrying or attacks and anyone who witnesses a dog worrying or attacking livestock is encouraged to report this to the Council’s Dog Warden by telephoning 0300 3031777.”