Louise Elkington, a sheep farmer from Gelston Lamb based in Lincolnshire, has expressed concern over the rising cases of dogs chasing her flock. She believes these encounters are seriously stressful and disturbing for her sheep. The sheep are regularly driven into dykes and chased across fields by unrestrained dogs. Many dog owners, she argues, mistake these actions as their pets merely trying to play, but the impact on her livestock can be severe.
She also pointed out the natural predatory instincts of dogs that could prompt them to chase livestock. A recent occurrence resulted in her lambs being forced through an electric fence, thereby risking their lives. The Animals Act 1971 allows landowners to shoot dogs if they are causing distress to livestock and no alternatives are available. This is an extreme action that no farmer wants to resort to.
Chloe Watson, who owns Tilly’s Off Lead Play Park, agrees with Elkington’s sentiments for the need for heightened awareness. She is strongly encouraging dog owners to be more considerate in rural settings in order to protect livestock as well as wildlife.
DC Aaron Flint of the Lincolnshire Police has also shed light on the legal consequences of allowing dogs to roam freely near livestock. He emphasised that if a dog off its lead worries livestock, it is considered a criminal offence known as ‘livestock worrying’. He strongly advocates for responsible ownership as a means to prevent such distressing situations.
This article is based on original reporting found on www.bbc.com.
