Warning after rising attacks on sheep in Cheshire

The NFU and Cheshire Police have urged dog owners to keep control of their pets in the countryside following a rise in attacks on sheep.

As the lambing season gets under way, the NFU and police officers are working together to urge pet owners to follow the Countryside Code and ensure their dogs are kept under control.

Cheshire farmers are also reporting a significant rise in incidents.

NFU Cheshire County Chair Rob Brunt said:

“There was a big rise in dog ownership and many people don’t understand what can happen in the countryside when they don’t have control of their dogs. Sadly, the situation has been getting worse.

“Dog attack incidents are extremely stressful for everyone involved and can easily be prevented by following simple precautions.

“At this time of year many ewes are lambing, and these sheep and offspring are highly vulnerable.  We urge people to keep their dogs on a lead near farm animals, be vigilant and alert to their surroundings, stick to footpaths and follow the Countryside Code.

“We want people to enjoy our beautiful Cheshire countryside, but it's important they do so safely and responsibly."

Livestock worrying includes barking, chasing, biting and killing and is a criminal offence.

Dog owners could be liable for prosecution or a fine under the Animals Act 1971 and incidents can cause anxiety, miscarriage and terrible injuries among flock.

Livestock worrying also causes indirect injuries as a consequence of animals stumbling and suffering from broken limbs or lacerations as they try to escape through fencing, hedges or wire to get away from the animal that is chasing them; dogs can also cause serious distress to pregnant livestock.   

When animals are badly injured it often leads to them having to be put down by a vet. 

Mr Brunt said:

“The NFU has consistently called for stronger protections and tougher laws to reflect the seriousness of livestock worrying,” 

“The recent Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill gaining Royal Assent was a huge step forward – the culmination of many years of lobbying by the NFU and it means stronger enforcement powers for the police and increased penalties for irresponsible dog ownership.” 

The NFU has persistently lobbied on the issue, and The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act was initially tabled by MP Aphra Brandreth through a private members’ Bill - it received Royal Assent in December last year.

The new amendment empowers police to take advantage of the technological and scientific advancements that have been made since it was first passed into law in 1953.

This includes allowing them to take DNA samples or mouth impressions from dogs they suspect of worrying livestock and where there is nobody present to accept responsibility of the dog, as well as ensuring offenders can be ordered by the courts to pay the costs incurred by seizing and detaining a dog.