Keep dogs under control

Sir, - We are asking dog walkers to take precautions when out walking in the countryside in the coming months.

Incidents of livestock worrying – where sheep and cattle are distressed, chased, injured or killed by uncontrolled dogs – are increasing, and we are pleading with dog owners to ensure that their pets are kept under proper control.

In addition, we are asking dog owners to avoid fields where very young livestock is present, as per the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. This is particularly relevant at this time of year, when lambing and calving are under way.

Where the public takes access to fields where older livestock is grazing, we ask that they keep dogs under close control.

They should also be aware of the potential dangers that cattle can pose, particularly where a dog is present. Last year saw the highest number of livestock worrying over the last seven years, with 179 incidents, up by 40 on 2015.

We would remind the