No Dogs Allowed

Why are Dogs Banned from the Reeks?

Anyone who has spent anytime walking the beautiful mountains of the MacGillycuddy Reeks has no doubt noticed the large ‘NO DOGS’ signs on the gates and fences near the various access points to the mountains. As dog ownership is on the rise in Ireland it is important to know the reason why you cannot bring dogs into the MacGillycuddy Reeks

Livestock worrying

Livestock worrying is when a dog attacks or chases livestock on agricultural land or is loose in a field with sheep. The MacGillycuddy Reeks consists of dozens of parcels of privately owned land and open unfenced commonages, the majority of which are actively farmed with sheep, lambs and sometimes cattle.

Sheep and lambs are very vulnerable to dog activity and they will view even the friendliest pet dog as a predator. Animals get very stressed when being chased and can result in their death. Ewes in lamb are at huge risk of losing their lambs if pregnant. Sheep fleeing from dogs are often killed or seriously injured by their panicked attempts to escape, damaging fences and field boundaries in the process. Dog bites can cause death in sheep or may result in them being put down at a later date or in the very least result in considerable veterinary bills

All cattle, especially those with calves can be aggressive, a walker with a dog could be perceived as a threat to cows and their young. You are putting yourself at risk if this occurs.     

Farmers Reeks

The MacGillycuddy Reeks are privately owned

As mentioned previously the Reeks is comprised of a collection of privately owned land, when you set foot in the mountains you are entering someone’s property. Access through the mountain is through what is called permissive access which essentially means you are allowed walk there through the goodwill of the landowner. It’s only reasonable therefore that we respect the wishes of these landowners who have collectively decided that having dogs on the mountain would be detrimental to their livelihood.

Where can I bring my Dog?

Fortunately there is no shortage of great walks in the area for you and your dog to enjoy. However please bear in mind leashes are still required for the majority of these walks as you may encounter someone with a fear of dogs, other dogs being walked or other wildlife e.g. deer.

Below is a list of Dog-friendly walks in the area;

  • Along the road in the Gap of Dunloe - Dunloe Upper, Killarney,
  • Lickeen Wood - East Drom, Glencar,
  • Tomies Woods, Tomies, Killarney,
  • Coillte Woods at Caragh Lake- Glounaguillagh, Killorglin,
  • Killarney National Park - Muckross House and Gardens, Torc Waterfall, Knockreer estate, Lord Brandon’s Cottage, Gearhameen, Co. Kerry

 

South Kerry Development Partnership
Department of Rural and Community Development
Kerry CoCo
Fáilte Ireland
Leave no Trace