Sheep worrying warning

A campaign has been launched to raise awareness among dog owners about the devastating effects of livestock worrying.

It coincides with a rise in sheep attacks by dogs during November, a time when livestock are brought down to crofts and low lying pasture, in areas more accessible by people exercising their pets or by local dogs allowed to roam free.

Police Scotland is promoting responsible dog walking in the countryside.

Inspector Jane Donaldson, Police Scotland rural crime co-ordinator, said: “Rural dog owners and those who choose to exercise their dogs in the countryside must ensure they are under control at all times and try to avoid going into fields where livestock is grazing.

“The worrying of sheep and other livestock by dogs not only has an obvious financial and emotional impact on farmers when their animals are killed or injured, but also has an effect on the animals themselves, their productivity and welfare.”

Crofters and those who use the countryside are urged to report all incidents of livestock worrying to police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Police said they will investigate all reported cases of livestock being attacked by dogs with offenders reported to the procurator fiscal.

Sheep worrying warning to dog owners

7 Nov 2017