Clare County is facing a important rise in dog attacks, prompting local authorities too take decisive action. In 2022, Clare recorded the highest number of injuries and damages from dog incidents in Ireland, affecting 49 individuals. County Dog Warden Frankie Coote has emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that he will not hesitate to impose fines on dog owners who fail to control their pets. This proactive approach aims to enhance public safety and reduce the alarming trend of dog-related injuries in the region. For more details, visit Clare FM’s coverage of the issue here.
Addressing the Rise in Dog Attacks in Clare County: A Discussion with County Dog Warden Frankie Coote
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Frankie. Clare County is currently facing a meaningful rise in dog attacks, with 49 recorded injuries in 2022 alone. Can you provide insight into what is driving this alarming trend?
Frankie Coote: Thank you for having me. The situation in Clare County is indeed serious. Several factors have contributed to the spike in dog attacks, including irresponsible pet ownership and, in some cases, the presence of certain breeds like bulldogs, which have been involved in multiple incidents recently. We need to focus on responsible ownership and better training for dogs to mitigate these risks.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a multifaceted issue. You mentioned irresponsible ownership. What measures are local authorities taking to address this problem?
frankie Coote: We are taking a proactive stance.As the County Dog Warden, I have made it clear that I will not hesitate to impose fines on dog owners who fail to control their pets. Our aim is to enhance public safety in Clare,and issuing fines is one part of a broader strategy to curb dog-related injuries. Additionally, we are working closely with local law enforcement to ensure that owners are held accountable for their pets’ actions.
Time.news Editor: With Kilrush being identified as a ”black spot” for dog-related attacks, what specific actions are being implemented there to improve the situation?
frankie Coote: We’re focusing on community outreach in Kilrush to educate dog owners about their responsibilities. This includes informing them about the necessity of leashing their pets in public spaces and training their dogs properly. We also plan to increase patrols in high-risk areas to monitor any suspicious activities related to dog ownership and intervene when necessary. We hope these measures will reduce the incidents of attacks.
time.news Editor: It seems that raising awareness is a critical factor. For dog owners in Clare, what practical advice would you offer to ensure they are responsible and their pets do not pose a risk to the community?
Frankie Coote: Absolutely. Firstly, dog owners should always ensure their pets are properly socialized and trained. Regular training sessions are vital for behavioral management.Additionally, owners must keep their dogs on leashes in public and secure their properties to prevent dogs from escaping. It’s also important to report any aggressive behavior to the authorities swiftly. Collective effort is key to making Clare County a safer place for everyone.
Time.news Editor: thank you, Frankie, for your insights into this critical issue. It’s clear that a strong response is needed to protect the community while fostering responsible dog ownership. For those interested in diving deeper into this topic, they can find more details in your interview accessible through Clare FM’s coverage of the issue here.
Frankie Coote: Thank you for having me and for helping spread awareness about such an critically important community issue. It is essential that we work together to keep Clare safe.