Local people are encouraged to report Animal Welfare cases

by Gráinne Connolly

In Fermanagh and Omagh District Council's newsletter, they say Animal Welfare is everyone's business. 

District Council's have a responsibility to enforce the Welfare of Animals (NI) Act 2011 in respect of non- farmed animals, such as dogs, cats, horses and donkeys. 

They're animal welfare officers have legal enforcement powers and can take a range of actions to improve the welfare of these animals. 

Extreme cases of suffering can include prosecution which can lead to a 5 year prison sentence and an unlimited fine. 

Members of the public are always encouraged to report any Animal Welfare case. 

If you become aware you can: 

• Report it to the appropriate enforcement body
   
• So not upload comments or photographs to social media outlets as this may jeopardise potential court proceedings. 
   
• Do not interfere with evidence as this may affect any subsequent criminal investigation
   
• Do not attempt to rescue an animal from another person or property as you may be found to be acting illegally. 

Reports can be made to: 

For non-farmed animals such as domestic pets - the council's animal welfare service on 02882256226

For farmed animals - the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs on 03002007840

For non-farmed wild animals - for wildlife crime concerns, for example badger baiting, poisoning of birds, deer poaching or if an animal is on the road, call the PSNI's non emergency number on 101 or 999 in an emergency.