Partnership working to reduce dog attacks on livestock

Lambing it as its peak at this time of year, and farmers, landowners and dog-walkers are being urged to take precautions.

Scottish Land & Estates (SLE), which represents rural businesses, said it was crucial to minimise the risk of dog attacks when the lambing season was underway and the countryside was welcoming visitors and walkers across Scotland.

This is the first lambing period since tougher legislation for livestock attacks under the new Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2021 came into effect.

Dog owners could face up to a £40,000 fine or even be sent to prison - or both - for allowing their dog to worry or attack farmed animals, including alpacas and game birds. SLE is a partner in a campaign with Police Scotland and others to promote the message ‘Your Dog – Your Responsibility’.

Simon Ovenden, policy adviser at SLE, said: “Lambing is now in full swing and many farmers and landowners will be welcoming visitors and walkers as they enjoy the spring air. It is however essential for all those in the outdoors to appreciate that this is the time of year when dog attacks on livestock are likely to be at their highest.

“Too often farmers have heard tearful stories from people whose dog is likely to be destroyed because it has attacked, and that it had ‘never worried or chased sheep before’. The farmer is understandably uninterested in the past conduct of the dog as they deal with the gruesome aftermath of such incidents.

“My advice for landowners and managers would be to display clear, simple signs on gates at relevant times of the year. Try to offer advice in a friendly but direct way where necessary to avoid any situation escalating to an unfortunate level.

“For dog-owners and walkers, the Scottish Outdoor Access Code states what responsible behaviour is for all visitors. Do not take your dog into fields where there are lambs, calves or other young animals and always keep your dog on a short lead or under close control.”

Signage is available to download free from the SLE website or copies can be ordered for a nominal fee. The National Access Forum also has some helpful guidance for farmers on its website.