_Ongoing issues

We welcome the Welfare of Greyhounds Act and the Dog Breeder Establishments Act.

We, with the help of our supporters, have achieved a lot but there is more to do. ANVIL Ireland would like a strengthening of existing legislation along with proper enforcement.  We would also like to see new updated animal welfare and protection laws. 

Things we would like to see: 

  • Compulsory microchipping of all dogs 
  • A  reduced cost life-time dog licence for all neutered/spayed and microchipped dogs
  • A government minister with responsibility for companion animals
  • Animal welfare grants should be written into the Book of Estimates not just ex gratia payments as at present 
  • The National Lottery Act, 1986 should be amended to include animal welfare as a category for funding
  • There should be a duty of care of owners and carers  included in any new animal welfare bill.  It is important that an animal can be helped before actual suffering is caused
  • Inspectors should have powers to make improvement notices. They should set out the steps that must be taken to improve the welfare of the animal.
  • Circuses, dog-training establishments, animal sanctuaries and dog pounds should be governed by minimum standards. There should be checks to ensure the premises are suitable and if they are not, improvement notices should be issued. Where there is a continued failure to comply the establishment should be closed down
  • Local authorities should be obliged to carry out trap, neuter and return programmes for abandoned cats
  • Non-breeders should be obliged to have their animals neutered

What can you do?

We need up to date, well thought out and properly enforced laws to ensure the safety of animals in Ireland.

We can make a difference by lobbying our political representatives. Please take a few minutes to email or write letters to your local:


Please, contact ANVIL Ireland now.