Number of dogs euthanised in Ireland has doubled since last year

New figures have revealed that Ireland has seen more than twice the number of dogs put to sleep this year than in years prior.

Around 340 dogs were euthanised in 2022, as reported by the Department of Rural and Community Development. The numbers also show a 95% increase in the number of dogs entering Irish dog pounds.

As dictated by the Control of Dogs Act, which was implemented in 1986, dogs who have spent five days in an Irish dog pound can be euthanised to make space for other displaced animals if no other space is found.

Dogs Trust, Ireland's largest dog welfare charity, has weighed in on the matter, calling it a 'crisis'.

"The upsetting reality is that due to the sheer volume of unwanted dogs, there simply isn’t enough space to house the dogs that are being surrendered," said the charity's Executive Director. "We, like many other organisations are completely overwhelmed and sadly fear that this is only going to get worse."

The cost-of-living crisis is a likely factor behind the trend, as people find they can no longer financially take care of their dogs. As reported in April, Wicklow Animal Welfare took in a record 28 dogs in a span of 16 hours.

Dogs Trust issued a statement asking for more people to become foster families for these dogs, in order to avoid euthanisation. These families would be able to care for a dog on a temporary basis, until a more permanent home for the dog is found.

“Fostering not only gives a dog a chance to experience home life, but it allows Dogs Trust to free-up a kennel space, so they can continue to rescue Ireland’s most vulnerable dogs and provide the rehabilitation and second chance they deserve.”

You can find more information about fostering on the Dogs Trust website.