FOLLOWING a series of attacks on sheep in recent days, dog walkers are being urged to keep their pets under control while exercising on farmland.

The annual problem of dogs disrupting spring lambing fields may be exacerbated this season by the increased numbers using the countryside for their once-a-day exercise under the coronavirus lockdown – bringing dogs unfamiliar with farm animals into the countryside, under the control of people equally unfamiliar with what can happen when dogs follow their instincts.

NFU Mutual rural affairs specialist Rebecca Davidson said: “These horrific attacks have left a trail of dead and seriously-injured sheep and new-born lambs so we are urging dog walkers to keep their pets on the lead at all times when exercising them in countryside where livestock are reared. Walking dogs on a lead also ensures people can safely keep two metres away from others.

“Livestock worrying causes appalling suffering to sheep and lambs – and during the coronavirus crisis, the threat of attacks is adding to farmers’ and crofters’ anxiety when they are already under immense pressure. Even if a dog doesn’t make contact, the distress and exhaustion of the chase can cause a sheep to die. Many walkers are also failing to clear up after their dog, which can spread disease to livestock," said Ms Davidson.

“Some farming areas are experiencing increased numbers of walkers with dogs, with farmers having to spend additional time patrolling flocks to try and prevent attacks which is hindering them from getting on with the vital task of producing food for the nation.

NFU Scotland's head of policy team, Gemma Cooper said: “Those who are accessing the countryside with dogs need to be aware that there is still livestock in the fields and that their dog can and will attack sheep and cows. Avoid fields with livestock where possible and keep your dog under control and remember to pick up after them.

“Dog attacks can lead to serious injury and death to livestock and even being chased by a dog can lead to sheep aborting their lambs. As a farmer or crofter this is a horrendous situation to find and is completely avoidable if dog owners and walkers act responsibly.”

NFU Mutual’s claims figures show that livestock worth £1.2m were attacked by dogs last year in the UK. A survey of over 1300 dog owners commissioned by NFU Mutual also revealed that 63% of dog owners let their pets roam free in the countryside, despite half admitting their dog doesn’t always come back when called.

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