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Hillwalkers and climbers have been urged not to take dogs on to hills this weekend following a plea from farmers in Kerry.
Mountaineering Ireland, the national body which represents such recreational activities, has backed the calls from farmers around Mount Brandon.
The presence of a dog on the hill causes stress to sheep and where dogs are off-lead sheep may be chased and get injured.
The failure of a minority of dog owners to keep their dogs under control means that dogs are not welcome in most upland areas.
Appeal
Mountaineering Ireland has appealed to all walkers and climbers to respect farm animals and wildlife by not taking dogs on to the hills.
In locations where dogs are welcome, people have been asked to ensure that dogs are under effective control at all times.
Mountaineering Ireland has been liaising with IFA representatives, the rural recreation officer in Kerry and local Mountaineering Ireland member Councillor Séamus Cosaí Fitzgerald to provide advice to help address the issue at Mount Brandon and also at Caherconree.
Those who enjoy outdoor activities have also been asked to support and adhere to the current travel restrictions for exercise of 5km in the Republic of Ireland and 10 miles in Northern Ireland.
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