Police focus on livestock worrying

Livestock worrying becomes focus for Devon and Cornwall Police during March.

Devon and Cornwall Police have produced a calendar to highlight rural issues throughout the year to focus problem-solving, key messages and prevention by the force, their partners and the public. 

March's theme is Livestock Worrying. 

Livestock worrying - when livestock (usually sheep) are chased by a dog - is a crime. Animals that are chased or attacked by dogs are frequently injured or killed. Pregnant ewes will often abort lambs due to high-stress situations, even if they have not been physically hurt. This can have an emotional, as well as financial, impact on all concerned and can affect the livestock long after the incident. 

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "You are responsible for your dog. Action may be taken against you and your dog if they worry livestock. You must ensure responsible dog ownership. Dogs should not be unaccompanied outside of the
home and their behaviour should be managed at all times. On access land your dog MUST be on a lead between March 1 and July 31 and at all times when livestock is present."

You are responsible for your dog. Action may be taken against you and your dog if they worry livestock. You must ensure responsible dog ownership. Dogs should not be unaccompanied outside of the
home and their behaviour should be managed at all times. On access land your dog MUST be on a lead between March 1 and July 31 and at all times when livestock is present

The police have released a list of ways to prevent livestock worrying:

• Enjoy the countryside but keep your dog on a lead if livestock is present. Release your dog if it is being 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.
• Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 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 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 08007 830137
• Join Devon and Cornwall Police Alert, watch schemes and local social media groups so that you can find out what is happening in your area

Photography By N-sky / Shutterstock.com