I have booked three weeks in Ireland, next May, staying in Glenbeigh in County Kerry, Clonbur in Galway and Carrigart in Donegal.

I toured Ireland in 2001, the difference this time, is I shall be travelling with three dogs. 

I have booked lovely cottages in each location. I have been looking at the legislation, regarding dogs on the beautiful beaches and it appears that unlike the UK, the restrictions come into force from June (generally seems to be May 1st here). The other interesting point, is the restrictions apply between 11am - 7pm. I think these rules possibly only apply to Blue Flag ones.

This all seems quite reasonable and for me, visiting in May, should theoretically, mean a nice doggy welcome for us!  Please, can anyone confirm this is how it works, in practice and will my dogs be allowed free exercise on the beaches?  I understand that in some parts of Ireland, there can be different dog restrictions to here, but on the whole, my impression is that of a more tolerant attitude. I certainly very quickly found cottages and B&B accommodation, willing to accept three dogs, free of charge too!

Thank you.

You wouldn't have found anything quickly with dogs BEFORE the recession began. Believe me, I am living in Ireland for the past 13 years.

It really depends from beach to beach and how well it is enforced.

I do not know what breeds you have but I take it you are aware of the Restricted Breeds Act?

Where is Clonbur? I live in County Galway and I've never heard of it (which doesnt have to say very much ;)).

Clonbur is a couple of miles from Cong. It is on the little bit of land between Loughs Mask and Corrib.
I have retrievers and yes, I have heard of the Restricted Dogs Act. I get the impression from your post, that I may be some what delusional in my expectation of a welcome in Ireland with my dogs. :-)  I love County Galway, I think it is my favourite.
Thank you for your response. :-)

Iam sorry if I gave you that impression, it wasn't intended.

Connemara is beautiful and make sure you visit Kylemore Abbey whilst there.

Thank you for replying again. When I was in Galway in 2001, I was touring with my late husband and because of his health,we really did very little visiting of historic buildings etc, mainly did the scenic drives. I am really looking forward to a 'different' tour this time. Will be travelling with friends, so we can take it turns to stay with the dogs.  Will definately put Kylemore on list of 'musts'.

I am already getting excited, even if it is a long way off! I always tend to book early if taking the dogs to cottages.

Cheers  :-)