A Qualitative Exploration of Challenges and Opportunities for Dog Welfare in Ireland Post COVID-19, as Perceived by Dog Welfare Organisations

SIMPLE SUMMARY: This study was conducted to ascertain the challenges in dog welfare and the future needs of dog welfare organisations (DWOs) in Ireland, as perceived by the DWOs themselves. Minimal previous research into dog welfare in Ireland was identified. Using interviews and focus groups, this study aimed to highlight previously unknown challenges and opportunities, to improve future dog welfare. DWOs perceived a need for greater education of the public on dogs, increased enforcement of current legislation for welfare, action on dog breeding establishments and puppy farms, and the financial challenges in dog welfare. The study also identified the current principles applied in dog rehoming procedures by DWOs and the desire amongst DWOs to improve standards across the sector. Greater communication between voluntary and statutory organisations and reducing volunteer burden were identified by DWOs as potential solutions. The findings, while consistent with research findings in other international jurisdictions, also provide greater depth and interrogation of the Irish context. In conclusion, this study is the first step in identifying the challenges faced by the sector and provides recommendations from those deeply involved in dog welfare. ABSTRACT: This novel qualitative study identifies challenges and opportunities to improve dog welfare in Ireland, as perceived by dog welfare organisations (DWOs), a previously underutilised stakeholder. This study sought the views of this predominantly voluntary sector of the next steps for policy and action in dog welfare, in light of the effects of the “puppy pandemic”, increased costs and COVID-19 restrictions. An integrated online focus group and interview design involving DWOs was analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Thematic analysis identified 2 key themes: (1) Key challenges and solutions in general dog welfare and (2) Challenges and opportunities in the welfare organisation sector. DWOs perceived poor public awareness of appropriate dog-husbandry, inadequate legislation enforcement, negative impact of puppy farms, and increased financial and volunteer burden. DWOs helped construct a best practice rehoming pathway, identified how overall standards could be improved and recommendations to enhance dog welfare. The DWOs perceived an increased numbers of households acquiring dogs, difficulties in rehoming, and financial challenges as threatening their viability as organisations and Irish dog welfare. Greater enforcement of legislation, greater communication between organisations and the government, and more media awareness were seen as helpful by the DWOs to improve dog welfare standards and their organisations.