SAM ROWLANDS MS urges dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead when in the countryside
Sam Rowlands, Member of the Welsh Parliament for North Wales, is calling on constituents to make sure livestock is protected when in the countryside.
Mr Rowlands, a dog owner, is backing a call from Natural Resources Wales who are urging everyone to keep their keep their dogs on a lead and follow the Countryside Code.
He said: “I am happy to add my voice to remind dog owners, who are walking their pets in the countryside, to make sure their animals are kept on a lead especially when near livestock.
“The lambing season is almost upon us and It is heart-breaking and very sad when we hear about sheep being attacked and suffering because a dog has been let loose by its owner.
“As the daylight hours increase and we look forward to warmer weather many people will be keen to visit some of the scenic landscapes we have to offer in North Wales.
“However, we really need to be aware of our surroundings when walking our pets and follow the countryside code.”
Natural Resources Wales has put out a timely reminder for everyone to follow the Countryside Code and urging all dog walkers to keep their dogs on leads around sheep to reduce attacks and exercise their pet in a responsible way.
Whilst the burgeoning of new life and escape from darker days of winter may bring relief for many, it can also be a time of great concern for farmers and landowners as lambing season begins.
Ongoing incidents involving loose dogs put animals at risk. Reports of sheep attacks have been recorded across the country, with many incidents ending in sheep fatality.
Every year, sheep and other livestock suffer stress, injury, and even death due to uncontrolled dogs. Pregnant ewes can miscarry when chased, and lambs can become separated from their mothers.
Even the most well-trained dogs have a natural instinct to chase, making it essential for owners to take precautions when heading out into the countryside.
Alison Roberts, Responsible Recreation Advisor at Natural Resources Wales said: “Dog owners have a responsibility to keep their dog under effective control and make sure it stays away from other animals.
“Following the guidance in the Countryside Code to use leads around sheep can help everyone enjoy the outdoors while keeping livestock and pets safe from harm.”
Rhian Pierce, sheep farmer in north Wales said: “Pregnant ewes and young lambs are really vulnerable at this time of year. Dogs can cause distress even if they don’t attack as the fear and exhaustion of being chased can cause pregnant ewes to abort.
“The distress this causes animals and farmers, as well as the harm to livelihoods, can be prevented by keeping dogs on leads near sheep.”
The Countryside Code exists to ensure that everyone can enjoy time outdoors responsibly while protecting the animals and wildlife that call it home. With a little extra care, dog owners can help protect the countryside and the livelihoods of those that work there, ensuring that lambs, ewes, and other livestock can thrive this spring, and allowing for an enjoyable, incident free time in nature with their beloved pet.
