Scout’s Out & About
Meet Scout, a rescued Wicklow collie discovering life beyond the chain.
No dog should spend its life on a chain. Help us change that.
The Scout Report
“I’m getting to know the world. Barry knows most of it, but still lets me check.”
A word from Scout · imagined dialogueThe real Scout
Joyce and Sinead helped him to safety. Ross and Barry brought him home. The rest is a daily discovery.
Scout’s world had been a cattle shed and a chain. Joyce brought him from the farm to the kennels in Newtown Mountkennedy. She called Sinead, Sinead messaged Ross, and Ross messaged Barry.
Barry met Scout at the kennels. The following day, he returned with Ross. Ross drove the silver Mercedes to their new home in Wicklow; Barry sat in the back with Scout.
There was a first night downstairs together, a morning howl and the slow business of learning to trust. Patience helped. Roast chicken also made a persuasive contribution.
Joyce gave Scout a name that suits him beautifully. He usually scouts things out calmly: watching, waiting and deciding for himself when to join in. He is patient and gentle. Loud noises can still unsettle him, especially farm machinery and trailers; he needs time and reassurance, not a hurry to be brave.
“Barry crouched down to say hello. Lovely man. We both wondered how he’d get back up.”Scout’s account, from Three Days & Four Soft Touches
Watch · 45 seconds
His first animated outing, with sheep, Wicklow scenery and a blue ball.
A glimpse of the series we hope to make.
From The Scout Report
“That’s enough new things for today. I’ll sleep on it.”
Woodland, water and a well-earned rest. Every day is a school day.
Read the cartoonMore everyday adventuresReal photographs. Imagined thoughts.
His real life, in pictures
The Scout Report01 · The first daysJoyce and Sinead get things movingRead the cartoonThe Scout Report
02 · Life opening upFive months later, a first gameRead the cartoonThe Scout Report
03 · Life opening upCards, cones and company at LynhamsRead the cartoonA few moments from his story. His thoughts and dialogue are imagined.
Why we tell his story
We want Ireland to end the practice of keeping dogs chained day after day, and help owners make the change safely.
This is not about leads on walks or briefly securing a dog for safety. It is about how a dog lives. Every dog needs exercise, company, shelter and a safe space. Farmers, dog owners and rescuers should help shape the practical alternatives.
Help the story travel. Share Scout’s story with someone, read the evidence below, or tell us what would help owners make the change. A kinder life for dogs starts with a conversation people can join.
Read the welfare special: Off duty. Still on a chain.Scout’s questions, with sources alongside.
The position reported as at 13 September 2026
Slovenia · in force
Slovenia’s complete ban on keeping dogs permanently tethered in the domestic environment took effect on 11 November 2025, after a transition period. It does not remove the need for leads on public walks.
Slovenian government statement (in Slovenian)Poland · law signed, transition ahead
Poland’s president signed a new law on 24 July 2026 prohibiting tethering dogs and cats at home, with specified exceptions. Reporting gives a 12-month transition after official publication, placing its introduction in 2027.
Read the report from PolandOur hope for Ireland
We want Ireland to end permanent chaining, with clear rules, a workable transition and practical support for owners.
Secure space, daily care and workable alternatives should be part of that conversation. We’d like to hear from people with experience to share.
There’s room for you here
Share a story about your own dog, tell us about people making life better for dogs, or simply enjoy Scout’s next adventure.
We’d love to hear it.
Email Scout’s Out & Abouthello@scoutsoutandabout.com
