Warning to dog owners over livestock worrying

The initiative urges dog walkers to act responsibly

Dog walkers in Cheshire are being urged to keep their pets on a lead after an increase in livestock worrying.

Livestock worrying is when farm animals on agricultural land are scared or attacked by a dog.

Geoff Edmond of the RSPCA said such incidents can have a "devastating effect" for all animals involved.

The initiative, launched in Cheshire, will see police, the RSPCA and Naturewatch Foundation work together to raise awareness.

"Whilst the vast majority of dog owners take care as a matter of course, sadly accidents can happen and even the most docile and obedient dogs can get distracted and excited by grazing animals," Mr Edmond said.

The RSPCA said livestock worrying can result in animal injury and death

"Being chased by a dog causes the animals stress and anxiety, this can lead to pregnancy loss in livestock and in some extreme cases, severe attacks can happen which have a devastating effect on the livestock, resulting in injury and even death.

"Livestock worrying is a welfare issue for dogs too who could become injured during the incident themselves or could even be shot by the farmer. It is lawful for farmers to shoot a dog to protect their livestock - which no one wants to happen."

Owners can be prosecuted if their dog is caught worrying livestock and the RSPCA advises dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead around the animals.

PC Jim Clark, of Cheshire Constabulary, said: "As a rural and wildlife crime officer, my heart sinks when an incident of livestock worrying or an attack is reported.

"I instantly know that this will have an effect on the livestock, the farmer, the offender and sadly the dog involved too."

The cost of livestock worrying to farmers increased by 50% between 2019 and 2022, according to the National Farmers' Union.

Kate Salmon, campaign manager at Naturewatch Foundation, urged dog walkers to "ensure they are acting responsibly".