Charlie O’Connor blogs on Animal Cruelty at Halloween

Posted on 29/10/09 by Charlie O’Connor

I have always been concerned for the safety of animals at Halloween but it has become a major focus of mine following a dog hanging incident in my constituency in Tallaght last year.

This time last year, two dogs were tied on to railings in a cruel Halloween stunt at our local park. Sadly, one dog died and the other was released by a passer-by but went missing afterwards.

I abhor cruelty to animals of any kind and it is incredulous to think that two dogs were treated in this way just because of the time of year. Halloween should not be an excuse for people to display such cruelty to animals.

There needs to be stricter laws in place to deal with animal cruelty. In my opinion, if ASBOs (Anti-social behaviour orders) were issued in these instances, it would act as a stronger deterrent to the mindless thugs who carry out such acts of cruelty.

I intend to discuss this matter with the Minister for Justice. I would also urge residents in all communities to work together with your local authorities and the DSPCA/ISPCA if you see anyone who you think may be putting an animal in danger. The DSPCA can be contacted at (01) 493 5502/4 and, for those outside Dublin, the ISPCA can be contacted at 043 3325035.

Unfortunately, this incident in my area might not be the last of its kind and I would urge all pet owners to be aware of the whereabouts of their pets and be extra vigilant this Halloween.

Charlie O’Connor is TD for Dublin South-West. Click here to read his profile.

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