Warning over livestock attacks amid surge in dog ownership

DOG attacks on livestock across the South West are estimated to have cost over £185,000 last year, according to new statistics, as the coronavirus pandemic has seen a surge in pet ownership and people heading out to visit the countryside.

Based on claims reported to NFU Mutual in 2020, it comes as a recent survey of dog owners commissioned by the rural insurer found that 64% are letting their pets roam free in the countryside, despite half of those surveyed admitting their dog does not always come back when called.

The research also revealed that 42% of dog owners have been walking their pets more often in the countryside during the pandemic, and that 81% of survey respondents have noticed more people exercising their pets in rural areas.

Roz Hills, South West regional manager at NFU Mutual, said: “With more people walking in the countryside as Covid restrictions continue and an increase in dog ownership, we have seen horrific attacks resulting in large numbers of sheep being killed and a trail of horrific injuries.

“These attacks cause unbearable suffering to farm animals as well as huge anxiety for farmers as they deal with the aftermath.

“It’s a critical time in the farming calendar and there is widespread concern as we enter the peak lambing season that there will be a surge in new visitors who are simply unaware of the Countryside Code or how their dog will behave around farm animals. We want people to enjoy the countryside as it’s so important for people’s wellbeing. It’s vital that dog owners act responsibly and keep dogs on a lead at all times whenever there is a possibility livestock are nearby.”

Only 40% of the dog owners surveyed accepted that their pet could cause the injury or death of a farm animal. Ms Hills added: “Even if a dog doesn’t make physical contact, the distress and exhaustion of the chase can cause sheep to die or miscarry their lambs. It’s important that owners realise that all dog breeds, not just the big, fierce-looking ones, are capable of attacking livestock, or chasing them.”

Owners’ responses to seeing dogs attacking livestock have also changed during the pandemic, with only 33% saying they would report an attack taking place to the police or a local farmer.

In 2020, the UK cost of dog attacks on livestock reached an estimated £1.3 million – an overall increase of over 10%. The worst-affected region by cost was the North East, where farm animals worth £240,000 were savaged by dogs. The next most seriously affected areas were the Midlands, the South West and Wales.

PC Chris Collins, Devon and Cornwall Police rural affairs officer, stressed that livestock worrying is a criminal offence and has a “devastating impact” on livestock, farmers and, in some circumstances, the dog and the owner. He added: “In Devon and Cornwall during 2020, there were 181 reported incidents of livestock worrying, an alarming increase on previous years. I would urge all to take note of the NFU Mutual’s advice and demonstrate responsible dog ownership.

“Please report all incidents of livestock worrying. If you witness an attack on livestock, do not intervene, keep yourself safe and call 999. For other livestock-worrying incidents please email 101@dc.police.uk or report crime online.”