Databank. Sheep worrying
Databank
Sheep worrying
Dog owners are being urged to keep their dogs under control following a marked increase in the incidence of sheep worrying. In 1999 it is estimated that 24,000 sheep were killed or injured by dogs, an increase of 8.5 per cent on the previous year. The cost to agriculture is estimated to exceed £2 million a year. In many circumstances a single dog may simply chase sheep around a field without actually biting them or causing them visible physical injury. However,when ewes are pregnant or nursing lambs, they are easily stressed and can die or lose their lambs simply as a result of being chased. Some dogs escape from properties or are allowed to roam with stray dogs while their owners are out or at work. NFU Mutual suggests that walkers report the sightings of stray dogs or irresponsible owners to the local police or the farmer concerned. If you are leaving your dog unsupervised, ensure that the area in which it is left is properly secured and that the dog cannot escape.
