Blue Cross Statement re Restricted Breeds

EGAR

The Irish Blue Cross emphasises the responsibility of pet owners who own any of the below listed breeds to ensure that at all times when they are in public places that they are muzzled, on a short strong lead and under the control of an adult older than sixteen years of age, who is capable of controlling the dog. These are the current regulations enforceable by local authorities.

* American Pit Bull Terriers
* Bull Mastiffs
* Doberman Pinscher
* English Bull Terrier
* German Shepherd
* Japanese Aikita
* Japanese Tosa
* Rhodesian Ridgeback
* Rottweiler
* Staffordshire Bull Terrier
* Bandog

In addition, the Charity urges all pet owners to have their pets neutered and micro chipped and calls on the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to introduce compulsory micro chipping so that each pet has a unique micro chip that links it to its owner. This will encourage greater accountability and a more positive attitude towards dog ownership.

In the absence of legislation to restrict ownership and breeding of the above listed dogs, the charity calls on welfare groups and the veterinary profession to continue their good work in encouraging responsible pet ownership and in so far as possible to discourage the ownership of these breeds. A greater understanding of the potential risks in keeping these breeds will assist pet owners to make more informed decisions on choosing family pets and pets suited to community environments.





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