During 2021 Devon and Cornwall police received 148 reports of livestock worrying by dogs. A slight reduction from the previous year however within this number 350 animals have been killed or injured, a significant rise.
These numbers are likely to be much higher due to under reporting and the longer term effects of an incident where the distress can cause a sheep to die or miscarry their lambs long after the event. It can often be difficult to attribute longer term issues to a specific incident.
Livestock worrying is a criminal offence and can have a devastating impact on livestock, farmers and in some circumstances the dog and the owner. Crime data indicates an increase in reports at this time of year as the weather improves and as more people access the countryside, particularly during lambing.
The rural affairs team have produced a short video highlighting the problem which can be found at the following link.
What do you need to do?
Ensure responsible dog ownership. Dogs should not be unaccompanied outside of the home and their behaviour should be managed at all times. All land is owned and access is not a given right unless designated, it is important that users of the countryside understand specific designations of land and rights of way, for example on land designated as access land under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act dogs must be on a lead between the 1st of March and 31st July and at all times when livestock is present.
information about land designations, access and rights of way can be found on the following links.
How can you prevent this?
Enjoy the countryside but keep your dog on a lead if livestock is present. Release your dog if chased by cattle.
Livestock worrying taking place at the time is considered an emergency dial 999 and explain there is a dog attacking livestock with a precise location.
Livestock owners can advise dog walkers by giving clear notices advising of the presence of livestock, Location of footpaths and appropriate fencing.
Call 101 or Email [email protected] if livestock has been chased or attacked and the dogs have left the location.
Farmers have the right to protect their livestock. Ensure you are aware of the legislation and your legal responsibilities.
Anyone able to offer information relating to livestock worrying is asked to email [email protected], call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Join Devon & Cornwall Alert, Watch schemes and local social media groups so that you can find out what is happening in your area