Gardaí investigating after dog killed in suspected firework attack

James Cox

Animal welfare groups are calling for stronger enforcement after a dog died following a suspected firework attack in Dunboyne, Co Meath.

Gardaí are investigating after the animal was found badly injured late on Friday night.

Animal rights campaigners say the dog’s death was a deliberate act of cruelty that has left the community shocked and heartbroken.

The incident has sparked outrage locally, with Meath County Council urging the public to contact gardaí with any information they may have.

Gardaí have confirmed that they are making enquiries in relation to the incident.

A local woman walking home discovered the animal and described the scene as “devastating… this was not an accident". The dog was still alive when found and succumbed to its injuries shortly after.

“This was not a prank - it was a crime. Let’s be clear: what happened in Dunboyne was illegal. The deliberate use of fireworks or 'bangers' to injure an animal constitutes an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013,” said Martina Kenny, co-founder of My Lovely Horse Rescue charity.

A statement from My Lovely Horse Rescue read: “We will not accept illegal cruelty in our communities. This was deliberate, and those responsible must be found, charged, and prosecuted.

"The era of turning a blind eye to illegal breeding and animal abuse must end now.

"My Lovely Horse Rescue has written to the Minister for Agriculture requesting to be formally recognised as authorised officers under the Animal Health and Welfare Act, so that we can assist in enforcement and ensure cases like Dunboyne are never ignored again, we await a response.

"A country’s humanity is measured by how it treats its most vulnerable. The dog found in Dunboyne deserves justice but justice for one animal means nothing if the system that failed it remains untouched.

"Animal cruelty is not a fringe issue. It is a criminal issue. It is a societal issue. And it is one Ireland can no longer ignore."

The charity urged people to sign its petition calling for reform to animal cruelty laws.