DEVON sheep farmers are urging dog owners to keep their pets under control and prevent attacks over Easter weekend.

The spring lambing period is now well underway, meaning ewes and new born lambs are often grazing close to footpaths, which can put them at risk of dog attacks. With summer beach bans for dogs gradually coming into force, an increasing number of people are expected to head to the countryside over the Bank Holiday break.

Many farm animals are seriously injured or killed each year in dog attacks and the issue of livestock worrying cost the region an estimated £185,000 last year, according to latest statistics.

PC Chris Collins, Rural Affairs Officer for Devon and Cornwall Police, said: ‘Livestock worrying is a criminal offence and has a devastating impact on livestock, farmers and in some circumstances the dog and the owner. 

‘Last year more than 300 animals were killed or injured in dog attacks across Devon and Cornwall. We have recently launched a “Take the Lead” campaign to raise awareness of the issue and to encourage people to report all incidents of livestock worrying to the police.’

Farming spokesman Roz Hills, said: ‘These attacks cause an immense amount of suffering to animals and are devastating for farmers to have to deal with. Even if a dog doesn’t make contact with a sheep it can still cause terrible distress to the animal.

‘These incidents are all so easily preventable if owners keep their dogs under control, either on a lead or secure when they’re in gardens, when livestock may be nearby.

‘With warmer weather on the way, it’s not surprising that more people will be wanting to get out and about and enjoy the countryside. It’s vital that dog owners take those small steps that can save a lot of heartache and upset.”

To make dog walking safe, pet owners are advised to:

Always keep dogs on the lead when walking in rural areas where livestock are kept but let go of the lead if chased by cattle

Be aware that even small lap dogs can chase, injure and kill farm animals

Take special care to keep close control of dogs unused to farm animals

Report attacks by dogs and sightings of dogs roaming the countryside to the police or local farmers

Not let dogs loose and unsupervised in gardens adjoining livestock fields – many attacks are caused by dogs which escape and attack sheep grazing nearby.