Midland Animal Care awarded Laois dog pound management contract

Midland Animal Care Ltd, a company operating animal shelters across Carlow-Kilkenny, Meath, Roscommon, Clare, South Dublin, Fingal, and Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown, has been awarded a €1m contract by Laois County Council to manage Laois Dog Pound and provide Dog Warden services.

The two-year national procurement contract follows a competitive tender process and takes effect immediately.

The award marks the end of a decades-long arrangement with the ISPCA, which managed the service since 1988. Ian Kenny, CEO of Midland Animal Care Ltd, confirmed that the service would continue with the same staff and operate from the existing premises. He said, “We would remind people that it is the law that if you have a dog you need a dog licence.”

Kenny also highlighted the company’s track record: Midland Animal Care has been operating similar services in multiple counties for over 12 years and maintains a strong rehoming record. The company’s operations include patrolling the county, collecting stray dogs, and rehoming them, funded through dog licence fees.

The Laois County Council statement confirmed, “Laois County Council recently tendered for the provision of the Dog Warden Service and for the management and operation of the dog shelter in Ballacolla. Midland Animal Care Ltd have been appointed to provide this service.”

Kenny praised the current dog warden for their experience and urged dog owners to remain vigilant, particularly as lambing season approaches. He added guidance on responsible ownership, noting the importance of cleaning up after dogs to maintain public safety and hygiene.

Read the full story on Midland Animal Care’s contract and the council’s animal welfare plans.

Photo credits to Midland Animal Care’s official website