DOG WALKERS in Orkney and Shetland have been urged to keep their dogs on a lead, or under close control, following concerns raised by local farmers and crofters.

Incidents have been reported in recent weeks of dogs worrying sheep, and as many of the public go out and about to enjoy the countryside during the recent spell of better weather, they are being urged to keep their pets under control.

The message from NFU Scotland was clear – keep your dogs under control, otherwise if they injure or worry sheep you could face prosecution. NFUS has previously revealed that the incidence of livestock worrying in Scotland last year was the highest it has been in six years – and the issue is still believed to be an under-reported one amongst farmers.

The union has been working closely with Police Scotland as part of the national Scottish Partnership against Rural Crime to raise awareness of sheep worrying across the country.

NFUS group secretary in Kirkwall, Kenny Slater, commented: “It is very disappointing that despite the extensive awareness raising that has taken place in recent months on this issue, a small minority of the public continue to allow their dogs to worry sheep.

“NFUS strongly supports a robust approach to this issue, including prosecution of irresponsible dog owners," he said. "The worrying of sheep and other livestock by domestic dogs can have a very damaging impact on the livelihoods of farmers as well as cause significant and unnecessary distress to the animals themselves.

“Anyone walking their dog in the countryside should ensure they are familiar with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and also ensure their dogs are adequately controlled so that they are unable to cause distress or injury to farm animals.”