Warning to rural dog walkers
WEST dog owners are being urged to keep their pets under control to prevent devastating attacks on livestock as they head out to enjoy the countryside over Easter.
The warning from rural insurer NFU Mutual comes at a critical time for farmers as the spring lambing season is well under way, meaning ewes and lambs are often grazing close to footpaths.
Many farm animals are seriously injured or killed each year in dog attacks and the issue of livestock worrying cost the South West region an estimated £185,000 last year, according to NFU Mutual statistics. Across the UK, the cost of dog attacks rose by more than 10% in 2020 to an estimated £1.3 million.
Roz Hills, South West regional manager at NFU Mutual, said not only can dogs cause horrific and fatal injuries, the distress of the chase can also cause sheep to die, miscarry or separate lambs from their mothers.
“These attacks cause an immense amount of suffering to animals and are devastating for farmers to have to deal with. Even if a dog doesn’t make contact with a sheep it can still cause terrible distress to the animal,” she explained.
“These incidents are all so easily preventable if owners keep their dogs under control, either on a lead or secure when they’re in gardens, when livestock may be nearby.
“With warmer weather on the way, it’s not surprising that more people will be wanting to get out and about and enjoy the countryside. It’s vital that dog owners take those small steps that can save a lot of heartache and upset.”
According to a survey of dog owners from NFU Mutual, 88% of people say they now walk their dog in the countryside. The pandemic has seen a surge in pet ownership and countryside visitors, and there are concerns some will be unfamiliar with the Countryside Code.
Only 18% of those surveyed said they would call the police if they saw a dog chasing or attacking livestock and only 15% would report it to the farmer.
Walkers are also being urged to report any incidents of livestock worrying they may witness. The ‘What3Words’ app can be used to pinpoint your exact location, so you can report where you have seen an incident to within a 3m x 3m area.
Pc Chris Collins, rural affairs officer for Devon & Cornwall Police, said, “I would urge all to take note of the NFU Mutual’s advice and report all incidents to the police. Livestock worrying is a criminal offence and has a devastating impact on livestock, farmers and in some circumstances the dog and the owner.”
James Stephen – Page 19