ZOE WILSON

DOG walkers are being warned to keep their animals on a short lead, and under control, in order to avoid further instances of sheep worrying.

To remind dog owners of this, signs have been made for NFU Scotland members and NFU Mutual customers, and will be available on stands at local agricultural shows around the country this summer. They will also be available at NFU Mutual and NFUS offices in the coming weeks.

A number of events have already been held by the NFUS, alongside Police Scotland, in order to speak to dog owners and professional dog walkers, and educate them about the damage they can cause if they allow their dogs to become out of control, including fatal injuries to animals, and large financial losses.

Head of member services at NFUS, Kerry Clark, commented: “Last year saw the highest number of instances of livestock worrying in Scotland from over the last seven years, and we need dog owners to take heed of our warnings, to keep dogs on a lead and under close control, avoiding fields with livestock where possible and taking an alternative route.

“We will be continuing our work to raise awareness about this serious issue which continues to cause problems for our farmers and crofters. There are no irresponsible dogs, only irresponsible dog owners and we need those who are acting irresponsibly to change their ways,” said Ms Clark.

NFU Mutual regional manager for Scotland, Martin Malone, added: “As the insurer of many of Scotland’s farm and crofts, we are all too aware of the heartbreak and huge financial loss that dog attacks cause.

“For small farms, the loss of a number of stock can have a huge impact on the business. While insurance can cover the cost of replacing stock killed and the treatment of injured animals, there is a knock-on effect on breeding programmes which can take years to overcome.

“While the majority of dog owners act responsibly and ensure that their dogs are always kept under control and on a lead when near livestock but a small minority either don’t know their responsibilities – or simply do not care – that their pet can inflict the most terrible injuries on livestock, which can often result in death.”

Despite this ongoing concern, Police Scotland has announced that sheep worrying has dropped by around 40% since last year's spring lambing season, which saw 43 incidents of dog worrying being reported.

Police Scotland rural crime co-ordinator, Inspector Jane Donaldson, said: “I am encouraged with this reduction in livestock worrying crimes compared to the same period last year, and grateful for the support of our partners, in particular NFU Scotland, Scottish Land and Estates, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Kennel Club, to raise awareness of this crime, encouraging farmers to report incidents and to educate dog owners.

“The effects of livestock worrying on farmers cannot be underestimated," added Insp Donaldson. "The loss of any animals will devastate a farmer, and can also have a significant financial impact. These crimes are wholly preventable and a key part of this campaign has been to educate dog owners on their responsibilities whether they live in rural areas or when they’re walking or exercising their animals in the countryside and by working with partners we hope the message is being taken on board and reflected in the reduction in the number of cases of livestock worrying which have been reported to Police Scotland.

For in-depth news and views on Scottish agriculture, see this Friday’s issue of The Scottish Farmer or visit www.thescottishfarmer.co.uk