Woman requires tetanus shot after being knocked over by unleashed dog

An Garda Siochana have reminded owners that they must have control over their dogs after a woman required a tetanus shot having been knocked over and scratched.

Gardaí received a report from a woman who was out for a walk in the Moville area when she came across a dog that was not on a leash. The dog jumped on her causing her to fall to the ground. She was also scratched by the dog and she had to receive a tetanus shot. This is the second type of similar incident that was reported to Gardaí in recent times in the Moville area.

“We wish to remind the public that under the ‘1986 Control of Dogs Act’, all dog owners are obliged to have their dogs under ‘effectual control’, a Garda spokesperson said. “This means that dogs don't necessarily have to be kept on the leash, but their owners must be able to control them at all times. Some dogs must be kept on a leash by law and must wear a muzzle when out in public and these include Bull Mastiff, Dobermann pinscher, English bull terrier and German Shepherd.

“If you have a dog and are able to control it then well and good but if your dog is very excitable and approaches people or other animals then this may cause considerable upset or fear for the people or the other animal in question even if you feel that the dog is doing no harm. It is certainly preferable to have your dog on a leash when out in public. Should anybody wish to report a concern in relation to dogs they may do so by contacting the dog warden on 074-9125159 or by contacting Gardaí.”