Warning new lambs on Cornish farms at high risk of dog attacks over Easter
Some farmers worried a ‘pandemic generation’ of poorly-trained dogs could cause carnage
There is a warning that new lambs on farms across Cornwall and the South West are at high risk of dog attacks over the Easter holiday.
NFU Mutual is calling for Easter visitors to the countryside to keep their dogs under control to protect new-born lambs in the region’s fields.
From its claims figures, NFU Mutual estimates that in the South West farm animals worth £228,000 were killed or injured by out-of-control dogs in 2021.
The rural insurer is worried that grown-up ‘pandemic puppies’ could cause even greater carnage this Easter if let off-lead in the countryside.
Research conducted by NFU Mutual shows 73% of dog owners (up from 64% last year) now allow their pets to roam off-lead in the countryside – despite 49% admitting their dog doesn’t always come back when called.
Rebecca Davidson, Rural Affairs Specialist at NFU Mutual, said: “With Easter falling late this year, most lambs on South West farms have been born and are highly vulnerable to dog attacks – so we’re asking owners to keep their pets on the lead whenever livestock could be nearby.
“With many people planning an Easter trip to the countryside with dogs which aren’t used to being around sheep, we’re worried there could be a surge in attacks.
“As the weather improves for the Bank Holiday, we understand people want to make the most of the countryside, however it’s crucial that this is done responsibly. While harmless at home, gentle family pets can quickly turn to their natural instincts out in the fields, leaving a trail of horrific injuries to sheep and new-born lambs.
“Owners need to be aware that it’s not just large dogs that attack sheep - even small dogs can cause deaths by chasing sheep round fields until they die from stress, or separate new-born lambs from their mothers.”