Two Alsatians attacked and killed four Mayo ewes after breaking free from owners
Castlebar man appeared in court after two Alsatians attacked and killed ewes gracing on Achill Island
Two Alsatian dogs escaped from their owners and chased and attacked sheep on the Keel Sandybanks on Achill Island resulting in the death of four ewes.
Mark Kulendrai of Sion Hill, Castlebar appeared before Achill District Court where he pleaded guilty to offences under the Control of Dogs Act after his two Alsatian dogs chased sheep in Achill on August 7, 2024. The offences included allowing his dogs to worry livestock and allowing his dogs off a leash and them not having a muzzle.
Garda Keith Deane explained that Mr Kulendrai and his then 17-year-old daughter were walking the dogs along the Keel Sandybanks in Achill when they 'bolted' after seeing a hare and gave chase. The strength of the dogs knocked Mr Kulendrai to the ground and his daughter was also unable to hold onto the leash and as a result the dogs also attacked ewes grazing on the commonage.
Garda Deane said that four ewes were eventually put down due to their injuries and total damage of the attack was €1,044.40 when the the value of the sheep and the vet bills and the collection of the dead sheep were taken into account.
Mr Gary Mulchrone, solicitor for Mr Kulendrai explained that on the day, the dogs were on a leash and muzzled but after they got away, the muzzle came off them. He said his client was upset with what happened as there was never an issue with the dogs before this and the dogs were five years old at the time.
Mr Mulchrone said that once they gained control of the dogs they took them from the area and an attempt was made to compensate the farmer but the money was not accepted at the time.
He added that what occurred on the day was unexpected but since then the family have taken steps to ensure it does not happen again and the two dogs are not brought out together. He added that compensation was in court to give to the farmer.
Mr Mulchrone explained his client has lived in Ireland for 37 years and is married and is a social care worker. He said as a result of his client being knocked over by the dogs he injured his knee and had to undergo surgery.
Judge Vincent Deane commented that he would have to adjourn sentencing until July 9 for the production of a victim impact statement.