Laois County Council is calling on all dog owners to act responsibly as lambing season approaches.
The council have set out a number of key reminders for dog owners for the coming weeks.
They said: “Even if a dog does not make physical contact, the stress caused by chasing or worrying can cause sheep serious injury.
“Secure your property. If you live in or near a farming area, ensure your dog cannot escape.
“Unsupervised dogs often roam further than owners realise and can end up in fields containing livestock.
“Never allow dogs out unsupervised, especially at night. Keep dogs on a lead near livestock.
“When walking in or near fields with sheep or other farm animals, dogs must be always kept on a lead and under full control.
“Know your legal responsibilities. Under the Control of Dogs Act, dog owners are liable for damages as a result of a dog attack or livestock worrying incident.”
Laois County Council is asking all dog owners to play their part in protecting vulnerable livestock during this critical period.
Meanwhile, Laois County Council has also been shortlisted for Council of the Year at this year’s All -Ireland Community and Council Awards.
The All-Ireland Community and Council Awards, held by the Local Authority Members Association (LAMA) and sponsored by IPB Insurance showcase the collaboration between communities and councils.
As well as being shortlisted for Council of the Year, Laois County Council has been shortlisted in the following categories:
- Best Enterprise & Start Up Hub for The CUBE Low Carbon Centre of Excellence
- Best Community – Scale Enhancement for The Poet’s Cottage Café in Camross
- Best Housing Regeneration & Urban Planning for Goldencroft Urban Regeneration Project in Portlaoise
- Best Sustainable Infrastructure & Climate Action for Portlaoise Low Carbon Town
- Excellence in Sustainable Major Infrastructure Delivery for Portlaoise Low Carbon Town
As well as being shortlisted individually, Laois County Council has been shortlisted alongside Longford, Offaly and Westmeath County Councils in the National Impact Award category for the Driving STEM in the Midlands Initiative.
Michael Rainey, Chief Executive of Laois County Council said: “I am delighted to share that Laois has been nominated for multiple projects at the 2026 All-Ireland Community & Council Awards, as well as being shortlisted for the prestigious Council of the Year title.
“This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff across the organisation, who strive every day to deliver the highest quality services for the people of Laois.”
The awards will be presented on Saturday, February 28, at the Convention Centre in Dublin.
SEE ALSO – Check out all of the previous episodes of the Laois Soccer Podcast
