Sheep farmers in plea to dog walkers

Lambing season reaches its peak in the UK as spring approaches

Dog owners and walkers are being warned to keep their pets under control to avoid attacks on sheep during lambing season.

Farmers say incidents are on the rise, especially as the weather improves and days start to get longer.

Livestock worrying, which includes barking, chasing, biting and killing, is a criminal offence.

Sergeant Amanda McKirdy, from the Cumbria Police Rural Crime Team, said: “We urge dog owners to keep their pets on leads around livestock."

Sheep farmer David Parry, from Wigton, said: “There was a big rise in dog ownership in lockdown and many people don’t understand what can happen in the countryside when they don’t have control of their dogs.

"Sadly the situation has been getting worse. It does have a financial impact on the business, but the animal welfare issue is the main concern.

“It is really awful to see the animals suffer in this way and it is upsetting for the pet owners who just didn’t expect their dog was capable of such things.”

Dog walkers have been reminded to keep control of their pets

Sergeant McKirdy added: “The majority of dog owners do take care around livestock, but it’s extremely important to follow signs and stick to footpaths.

"It is also important to check your properties and gardens are secure when you have dogs.”

Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Mike Johnson said: “At this time of year many ewes are lambing and these sheep and offspring are highly vulnerable.

"We have an individual and community responsibility to ensure that we all get to enjoy our countryside without causing distress and harm to livestock.

“It is our duty as dog owners, and owners of dog walking businesses, to ensure that all dogs are kept on a lead when in a field with or near livestock, no matter how well trained these dogs are.”