227 horses impounded last year with 213 euthanised
By Brendan Grehan
OVER 220 horses were impounded by South Dublin County Council in 2017, the council heard at their monthly meeting recently, reports Brendan Grehan.
Councillor Francis Timmons put down a question asking for a report on horse control for 2017 including how many horses were seized, how many were euthanised and what was the total cost to SDCC for horse control?
The council replied that they have responsibility for the administration of the Control of Horses Act, 1996.
All reports of loose/stray horses which are received from elected representatives, members of the public and council staff are considered in a timely manner and, as appropriate, are referred to the contractor engaged by the Council for the provision and operation of the horse seizure service and horse pound facility.
All seized horses are taken to the horse pound facility where they are microchipped on arrival, (if not already microchipped) and examined by a veterinary practitioner.
Horses which are unsuitable for re-homing or not reclaimed by their owners within a period of five days from the date of seizure and detention the council (or Garda Superintendent) may dispose of by way of sale or animal euthanasia.
The council said that during 2017, 227 horses were impounded, five were reclaimed by their owners, nine were rehomed and 213 horses were euthanised.
The council said they receive a subvention from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Marine for the service.
In 2017, there was a total expenditure of €179,372.73.
Total income was €71,108.04 and the Net cost was €108,264.69.
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