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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 6 Oct 1998

Vol. 494 No. 4

Written Answers. - Canine Euthanasia.

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

346 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that bolt guns are used in a number of dog pounds to put animals down; his views on whether this is appropriate treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18307/98]

Local authorities are required to arrange for the destruction of unwanted dogs in a humane manner. The preferred method of canine euthanasia among leading animal welfare organisations is the use of intravenous injection of pentobarbitone sodium. Other approved methods include shooting with a free bullet pistol or captive bolt, provided the operator is competent and properly trained. In a recent assessment of different animal euthanasia methods the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals described the captive bolt method as very rapid, of high efficiency and acceptable for the destruction of dogs.

While most local authorities use intravenous injection as the method of destruction, a small number continue to use the captive bolt. I am assured that the captive bolt, properly used is a humane means of destroying unwanted dogs.

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