Dog charity calls for appointment of minister for Animal Welfare

The Irish charity, Dogs Trust, are calling on dog lovers to sign a petition asking the government to give dogs the "Greatest Gift" this Christmas by creating a role with full responsibility for dog welfare.
   
This week Dogs Trust drew attention by delivering a giant gift outside the government buildings of Leinster House, in Dublin. The gift tag read, "To all dogs, from the government". Dogs Trust has launched a petition and is urging the dog-loving public to sign it and support their campaign, which aims to encourage the government. 

The call for a devoted champion for dogs is supported by a recent study by the charity of over 24,000 dog owners and enthusiasts which revealed that 88% believe that a dedicated Junior Minister would provide a more coordinated response to dog welfare issues in Ireland.  

Currently, policy and legislation for the welfare, breeding, selling and supplying, control and traceability of dogs fall between multiple government departments. Without one person having sole responsibility for all areas of dog welfare, including enforcing and resourcing legislation, our canine companions can sadly fall through the cracks.  

Dog crisis

Ireland is in the midst of what can only be described as a canine crisis with Dogs Trust receiving more than 2,800 calls and emails from people wanting to give up their dog so far this year. Behavior issues are one of the top reasons for relinquishment and can stem from poor breeding practices, irresponsible dog ownership and a myriad of issues that require a holistic view to solve. 

Suzie Carley, Executive Director of Dogs Trust Ireland said "We hear stories daily of dogs who are bred with no thought to their welfare and are struggling with behaviour issues because of a myriad of complex reasons.

"Currently there is no single person with full responsibility for dog welfare and control. With a new government due to form, there is a real opportunity for transformational change."

She added, "We encourage dog lovers in Ireland to sign our petition for a Junior Minister - someone at the heart of government whose job it is to care for dogs as much as you do."

Dogs Trust's manifesto includes:

- The end of cruel breeding practices

- To enable full traceability of dogs

- To improve dog control and public safety

- To enable more dogs to remain with their family in rented homes 

Dogs Trust's petition is available to sign at DogsTrust.ie/GreatestGift.