Lambing season sparks new police warning to dog owners
Police on Arran have launched a new initiative, working with partners across Scotland, to remind dog owners of their responsibilities when exercising their pets in the countryside.
‘Your Dog – Your Responsibility’ is a five-month campaign being run by the Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime (SPARC) to ensure dog owners understand the distressing nature, as well as emotional and financial impact, dog attacks on sheep can have.
Arran Sergeant Dougie Robertson said: ‘Although incidents of livestock worrying are mercifully rare on Arran, with lambing season under way it should not be underestimated the impact an out-of-control dog can have in a field. Even the stress of being merely chased can lead to sheep losing their lambs, or sheep themselves dying.
‘The vast majority of dog owners who either reside on or visit the island are responsible. However, it is important to remember that regardless of whether a dog has been let off a lead and is not obeying commands, the owner is always responsible.
‘Arran has some of the finest scenery in Scotland, and islanders are rightly proud of their home. Although a leisure destination for many, the island is a workplace for others and I would ask that dog owners are mindful of livestock, respect the access code and remain vigilant.’
Further information regarding the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and dog ownership can be found at www.outdooraccess-scotland.scot/ practical-guide-all/dog-walking