Farmers in Rutland could be suffering huge financial loses from dogs attacking livestock
The Leicestershire and Rutland rural policing team posted on social media that they are receiving reports of these attacks
The farmers union that covers Rutland say that dog attacks on livestock could be costing farmers millions every year.
It comes after the Leicestershire and Rutland Rural Policing Team posted on social media that they are receiving reports of these attacks.
More than fifteen thousand sheep and lambs are killed every year in the UK by dogs
Figures from National Farmers Union Mutual showed that farm animals worth an estimated £2.4 million were severely injured or killed by dogs in 2023.
This was up nearly 30% from the previous year.
Now, police and local farmers are urging dog owners to keep their pets on leads.
This is a huge problem
Joe Stanley, Chairman of the Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland National Farmers Union, said:
"It might be surprising to hear, but more than fifteen thousand sheep and lambs are killed every year in the UK by dogs."
"This is a huge problem costing around two and a half million pounds a year for farmers in just dead animals."
"In some instances we are seeing as many as 40 sheep and lambs being killed by a dog or a group of dogs in a single attack."
"That doesn't include the injured animals and the animals that are at risk of aborting unborn babies as well, so this is a huge problem."
"Can you imagine stumbling across a scene of total devastation where between one and fifty sheep are mauled to death in your field?"
"Can you imagine the impact that would have on you?"
"I would urge people using the countryside to be aware that your dog is capable of doing this, so please keep dogs on leads in fields with livestock, especially."
Can you imagine the impact that would have on you?
In a social media post the Leicestershire and Rutland Rural Policing Team said:
'In light of finally having some sunshine many of you will be heading out for a stroll in the countryside with your canine companion. Idyllic as this sounds, sadly we are receiving reports of dog attacks on livestock.'
'Livestock worrying has a huge impact on the farming community, not only financially, but also emotionally.'
'No farmer wants to find their animals killed, maimed, or injured as a result of a dog attack.'
'Often incidents go unreported, leaving animals stressed, injured, or dying in a field until the farmer makes the gruesome discovery.'
'It's imperative that should the worst happen, you contact the farmer, police or a vet so the animals are not left to suffer.'
Advice police have given to avoid this includes sticking to the footpaths, be aware of your surroundings and what your dog is doing and keep dogs on leads around livestock."#