Animal welfare groups are demanding stronger enforcement and legal reforms following the death of a dog in Dunboyne, Co Meath, after a suspected firework attack. The dog was found badly injured late Friday night and died shortly after. Local authorities, including Gardaí and Meath County Council, are investigating the incident, which animal rights campaigners condemn as a deliberate act of cruelty and a criminal offense under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013.

The charity My Lovely Horse Rescue has called for those responsible to be found and prosecuted, emphasizing that animal cruelty is a serious societal and criminal issue in Ireland. The organization has petitioned the Minister for Agriculture to be recognized as authorized officers to aid enforcement and prevent future cases like this. They also urge the public to support reforms to animal cruelty laws to ensure justice and better protection for vulnerable animals.