More than a dozen lambs were killed and several others seriously injured after being attacked by a dog in Co Louth.
The incident, which took place in the Ravensdale area this week, involved a "single pet dog", Louth County Council has said.
It is understood 14 lambs and two ewes were died as a result.
The county dog warden service attended the scene and described the attack as "a direct result of irresponsible dog ownership".
Louth County Council Director of Services Joe McGuinness said dog owners must make sure their animals "are under effectual control at all times".
"This incident reported in north Louth is a stark reminder to all dog owners of the harm that out-of-control dogs can cause. It is important to remember that a family pet can react differently to people, and other animals, when outside the home," he said.
The local authority recently launched a public appeal to dog owners, highlighting the responsibilities that come with dog ownership.
"Louth County Council are appealing to all dog owners to ensure their dog is licenced and microchipped. All registered details must be maintained and remain up to date, including the current address and owners contact numbers," added Mr McGuinness.
The Department of Rural and Community Development also recently launched a national awareness campaign called 'It's not your dog’s fault, it’s yours’.
It is aimed at increasing awareness of the harm that dogs can do to people and to livestock.
