Organised dog attacks in Cork are a ‘sinister trend’

Calls have been made to Cork City Council to address the “sinister” trend of organised dog attacks, which are occurring across the Cork city South East ward.

A number of attacks, where dogs are being set upon cats, have been observed in the areas of Mahon, Mayfield, and the Glen in recent weeks, leaving family pets physically brutalised or dead.

While a spokesperson for An Garda Síochána has confirmed that there are ongoing enquiries taking place in relation to a specific dog attack, which occurred in Mahon on April 8, Cork city South East Labour Party councillor Peter Horgan said that more needs to be done before these attacks progress further than animal-on-animal cruelty.

“This is a sinister and concerning trend to see emerge from separate sides of the ward,” said Mr Horgan.

“To view the destruction of life as some game is fierce upsetting for any law abiding citizens in our communities.

“I have sought the dog wardens to intervene and check that licences and leash laws are being enforced.

“If dogs are being gamed to set upon and tear apart innocent animals, it would undoubtedly lead to attacks on children happening,” he added.

“We have to address this social scourge immediately —the hands-off approach won’t suffice.”

A spokesperson for Cork City Council told The Echo there are three dog wardens employed in the administrative area, whose duties include following up on reported dog control issues.

“Progress is being made in relation to some of the issues mentioned, [and] we would encourage anyone with specific information to report it to An Garda Síochána or the CSPCA,” they said.

This article has been amended in the light of updated information.