DUBLIN City Council is being called on to provide funding for the neutering and spaying of stray cats and dogs in the city.
A total of 550 stray dogs were destroyed by the city’s dog pound service between 2011-2013 but the council admits it doesn’t directly allocate any funds for spaying or neutering.
Now Ballymun councillor, Noeleen Reilly (SF), says the local authority should provide funding to help control an increasing number of stray animals on Dublin’s streets.
“It is very disappointing to hear that no funding is granted in this area,
? she said.
“I personally know of many kind-hearted residents who take this cost on themselves, but this is not sustainable. We have a huge problem in many areas in Dublin with stray cats and as they breed quite regularly it is an ever increasing problem.
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In a reply to a query from Cllr Reilly a council official outlined measures currently in force to tackle the issue.
“Dublin City Council does not currently allocate resources directly to this area but we make annual donations to various charities that provide spaying and neutering services,
? the official said.
This year Dublin City Council donated e1,000 to The Cats and Dogs Protection Association of Ireland, e7,000 to the DSPCA and e6,000 to The Irish Blue Cross.
However, Cllr Reilly said she was disappointed with the response and believes the council should be doing more.
“While Dublin City Council makes very small donations to a number of charities I really believe they should be taking leadership in this area,
? she continued.
“I am very concerned about the welfare of these animals, that if treated correctly could make fantastic pets for any family.
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According to the DSPCA stray cats and dogs struggle to survive on the streets and seldom live for more than a year or two.
Cats and dogs can start breeding at less than six months old. Cats can have litters of six or seven every three months, meaning two cats could breed up to 52 kittens a year.
Dublin City Council say that while stray dogs are covered by the Control of Dogs Act, there is currently no legislation governing cats.
“We have no figures available for the number of cats put down,
? the official said.
“Local authorities have certain powers under the Control of Dogs legislation, including that of putting down dogs.
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Cllr Reilly urged locals thinking of getting a pet to do so at the Dogs Aid Animal Sanctuary in Finglas.
“They do a fantastic job in rehoming dogs and I would certainly encourage anyone looking to get a pet to think about Dogs Aid,
? she said.
“We have had a situation where people have taken on the responsibility of a pet without really understanding what is involved.
“This is why many of our charities are bursting to the brink of unwanted pets. A simple solution to tackle this problem for me would be the council taking on more of a responsibility in this area.
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Dogs Aid can be contacted after 12pm on 087-2944310 or via email at info@DogsAid.ie. The Dogs Aid sanctuary is based in Meakstown, Finglas, and is open from 12pm-4pm every day except Tuesdays.