The Ennis Dog Pound has been the at the receiving end of much criticism over the years, but it seems situation for stray dogs in Ennis is improving.
Reports indicate that in 2013 561 stray or seized dogs were put to sleep at the Ennis Pound. So far in 2018, there have only been 14 dogs put to sleep on the grounds that they were posing a danger to people.
Ennis Town Councillor Johnny Flynn comments, “At next week’s County Council meeting, I’m calling for the publication of statistics for the Horse Welfare management in Clare over the last 5 years. From what I understand, nearly 100% of seized or surrendered horses in Clare have been put to sleep under the current contract delivered by a company in Cork.
“In conjunction with this, I’m asking for an update of the tendering decision for the proposed 3-year management plans for control of dog welfare and horse welfare. The new contracts should set an objective of 100% rehousing of these vulnerable horses and dogs wit the exception of dangerous animals.
“Since 2014 when animal welfare concerns were brought to my attention, I regularly visit the dog pound and advocate for the investment by Clare County Council in facility improvements and provisions for control of dog welfare services, which coincided with Midland Animal Care Ltd getting that contract in 2016. I hope these new calls help to improve the outcomes for horse welfare in Clare.”
Investment by Clare County Council in recent years has resulted in a new outdoor insulated kennels, improved heating equipment to keep dogs and puppies warm throughout the winter and increase in storage facilities to ensure the safety of the staff. A further investment this year has been appointed to upgrade windows, flooring and kennels and the purchase of comforts, such as new dog beds.
Cllr Flynn continues, “I’m looking forward to seeing the new upgrades completed for the Ennis Dog Pound which the contractors started works last week. These improvements are a huge step forward in taking care of our vulnerable animals.”
