We all know that Ireland is known as 'puppy farm' of Europe - The number of dogs breeded is much higher than the demand, female dogs are over-bred, dogs are very often kept in unsuitable conditions, and the pups are often dumped (left to die) or killed, when they have heath issues (due to over-breeding or poor genetics) or when they are not wanted. Many are exported to the UK illegally, with only some pups making it through the journey, due to being transported in unsuitable conditions.

This needs to stop - and it needs to stop now.

The Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010 only covers anyone who has at least 6 female dogs who are "more than 6 months old" and "capable of being used for breeding purposes" - this means that over 95% of breeders, who sell their pups online ARE NOT REGULATED by the act.

I am calling on TD Séan Canney to extend the current regulation to cover ALL dog breeders, regardless of the number of bitches they breed. Anyone, who has a bitch that is pregnant should be regulated by the law. Each county council should know how many pups are bred, who breeds them, how they are bred, and what happens to them after they are born.

Additionally, I strongly believe that if Ireland wishes to have a list of restricted dog breeds, then the breeding of such dogs should also be restricted and closely monitored by the state.

I would like to invite you to join me and sign this petition so we can tackle the issue of a worrying increasing number of dogs in Ireland. This will help the rescues, help the pounds, and most importantly help the dogs.