More dog warden services need to be assigned to the East Meath - McKee

More dog warden services need to be assigned to the East Meath area to tackle the increasing problem of dog control and dog fouling according to a local councillor.

Laytown/Bettystown Fianna Fáil Cllr Stephen McKee has called for more funding in recognition of the increasing demands around dog control. "I’m calling on additional funding to be made available to the East Meath area where we have a large population, a high number of dogs and a long stretch of beach also," said McKee.

"A motion I previously tabled calling for the greater control of animals, and dogs in particular, on our local beaches was adopted by the Council so funding for more dog wardens and their services will go some way towards improving the situation in East Meath," he added.

"People regularly tell me of bad experiences they or family members have had with dogs that are not being properly controlled by their owners. Many people now have a genuine fear of going to the beach and even taking their own dogs to the beach because they are afraid of being attacked by a loose animal.

"Furthermore, we have an issue with dangerous breeds being allowed to roam, not only the beach but also in local estates, without muzzles on. We need much stricter enforcement of the Council’s own bye-laws. It is unfair particularly on young children and senior citizens who are most vulnerable.

"As a dog-owner myself, I want to see our beach and our streets accommodating for all but I am concerned that we still have a way to go before that is the case" concluded McKee.