‘Respect the countryside’ message issued for dog walkers this Easter weekend
The NFU says many farm animals are seriously injured or killed each year in dog attacks
Dog owners visiting the countryside this Easter are being urged to keep their pets under control to prevent attacks on livestock.
Dorset sheep farmers are bracing themselves for an influx of visitors as the 'critical' lambing period gets underway.
Last year Dorset Police had 36 reported incidents of livestock worrying and attacks by dogs.
Since the beginning of 2021, Dorset Police have already seen 14 incidents.
NFU statistics reveal the cost of dog attacks on farm animals increased by over 10% in 2020 to an estimated £1.3m last year.
LIVESTOCK WORRYING IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE
If you're out walking the dog this weekend on farmland and it worries livestock it is seen as committing a crime.
Under the Protection of Livestock Act 1953 "Livestock" means cattle, sheep, goats, swine, horses, donkey's or poultry.
BE RESPONSIBLE WHEN WALKING YOUR DOG IN THE COUNTRYSIDE
- Keep all dogs on a lead around any livestock and remember to always release the lead if chased by cattle and get yourself to safety.
- Worrying is traditionally thought of as a dog biting/attacking livestock but it also means:
- Chasing livestock in such a way as may be reasonably expected to cause injury or suffering; in the case of ewes, this includes abortion or loss or reduction in the number of offspring she has.
- Not having a dog on a lead or under close control when close by, or in a field or enclosure with livestock.
- Not having a dog on a lead or under close control when close by, or in a field or enclosure with livestock.
- The penalty for livestock worrying can be 6 months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £1000.
If you see anything suspicious call 101 or if you see a dog worrying livestock or attacking livestock please call Dorset Police on 999.