SMART ALERT: Keep Dogs Under Control Around LivestockWe’re reminding all dog owners to keep dogs under control when walking near farmland. Livestock worrying – where a dog chases, attacks, or causes distress to farm animals – is a criminal offence. It is illegal for a dog to worry livestock. This includes chasing, barking at, or attacking animals such as sheep, cattle, goats, horses, and (under new proposals) alpacas and llamas.Farmers are legally entitled to protect their animals, which can include shooting a dog that is actively worrying livestock.Offenders can face fines, compensation claims, and police action. Under the new Bill, police will have greater powers to seize dogs, enter properties, and collect evidence.Why is this important? Livestock worrying causes severe stress, injury, and even death to animals. It can also lead to pregnancy loss in cattle and sheep.NFU Mutual estimates dog attacks cost UK farmers over £1.8 million annually.Even the most obedient dogs can act on instinct when near livestock.How to prevent incidents: Always keep your dog on a lead near livestock or when crossing farmland.Stick to public rights of way and respect signage.If livestock are present, do not let your dog roam freely.Report any incidents of livestock worrying to Staffordshire Police via 101 or online.Let’s work together to protect our countryside and prevent harm to animals.
Kindest Regards PCSO 8848 Nicholls | 
