Wiltshire Police issue warning to dog walkers
Force reveal at least two cases a month of livestock worrying in county
It has been reported by Wiltshire police that they receive at least two reports each month of incidents relating to dogs chasing, injuring, or killing sheep and other livestock. The force believe that this issue is also under- reported and that national figures indicate attacks are on the increase.
Last week, it was reported to police that a flock of 24 sheep were chased around a field near to Marlborough by a dog that was out of control and, according to an eyewitness, the owner was nowhere in sight. Fortunately, there were no physical injuries to the sheep on this occasion but there is a concern that some will abort their lambs from being chased.
A survey by the NFU Mutual with 1100 dog owners showed that 66% allow their pets to roam freely off-lead in the countryside, yet 39% admit their dogs do not come back to them when called, and 64% admit their pets chase livestock.
Wiltshire Police simply want to remind dog owners that it is a sensible precaution to keep them on a lead when livestock are nearby. Almost half (46%) of dog owners in the survey think that their dog would not attack or chase livestock until it happens, and by then it is too late.
Livestock worrying is when a dog attacks or chases livestock on agricultural land or is at large in a field with sheep or other livestock. This can result in significant injury or suffering, and, in the worst cases, death of the animals involved. having devastating consequences for livestock keepers and causing personal distress as well as significant financial costs. It is a criminal offence and can mean the dog owner could face prosecution and a fine of up to £1000, in the most serious case.
The NFU Mutual survey puts the south-west region as having the second highest cost to livestock owners in England at an estimated £273,000 in 2022. With the national rise in the number of cases
Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: