THE FARMERS’ UNION OF WALES (FUW) has welcomed the release of a report by the All Party Group on Animal Welfare (APGAW) which reviews the ongoing problem of livestock worrying and aims to encourage responsible dog ownership.
Amongst the issues examined were the lack of proper alternatives when green spaces are removed and the difficulty in prosecuting repeat offenders.
Dr Hazel Wright, FUW Senior Policy Officer said: “Livestock worrying continues to be an important issue for our members and we have repeatedly documented the wide-reaching damage that dog attacks can cause.”
The emotional and financial problems caused by livestock worrying were highlighted by the FUW during several evidence sessions held by the APGAW in London.
“The issues behind dog worrying are complex and it is frustrating that, despite significant industry investment, many members of the public remain unaware that their family pet can attack, injure or kill livestock,” added Dr Wright.
The report finds that proper management of dogs and reducing high-risk behaviour around livestock should be the primary focus when trying to reduce the number of dog attacks.
“As highlighted by the APGAW, many dog attacks happen by unaccompanied dogs that have strayed from the home environment and our messages about keeping dogs on a lead near livestock can only form part of the solution. We therefore welcome the call for research to examine the root causes of poor dog behaviour,” she added.
Lack of reporting means that the true impact of livestock worrying is still unknown and it is likely that many incidents go unreported.
However, where data has been collected, figures demonstrate that livestock worrying could be costing the sheep sector around 1.3 million pounds per year and this is a substantial amount of money for a sector which continues to suffer from low profitability.
“Business losses include loss of stock, production decreases due to stress, abortions and the loss of future earnings from stock. These costs can be significant and are coupled with insurance costs, veterinary bills and carcase disposal.
“The countryside is a place to be enjoyed and most members of the public are able to use the countryside without incident. However, farmers must be able to protect their animals and safeguard their businesses and it is important that the findings of this report are now translated into positive action,” added Dr Wright.
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