What is livestock worrying?

Livestock worrying describes when a dog attacks or chases livestock. This often results in significant injury, suffering and death of animals.

Incidents of livestock worrying have devastating consequences for farmers and smallholders, presenting significant emotional impacts due to the severe injury and distressed caused to the animals they have reared, as well as financial implications. 

What should I do if I witness a dog chasing or harming livestock?

Immediately dial 999 if you witness a dog out of control in a field chasing or injuring livestock. 

What is Operation Recall?

A national campaign, Operation Recall, was launched by Naturewatch Foundation, the National Rural Crime Unit, the RSPCA and Cheshire Police to encourage responsible dog ownership. The aim of this campaign is to significantly reduce the number of livestock worrying incidents and the suffering to animals. For more information, visit the Naturewatch Foundation website.

What advice do you give to dog walkers?

Wiltshire Police urge dog owners to always keep their dogs on a lead and under control when walking through fields. Even if livestock cannot be seen, it is best to keep your dog on a lead as it could run into neighbouring fields containing livestock and spook or injure them. Dogs chasing livestock without causing physical injury can still cause devastating impacts, as pregnant ewes may miscarry and the animals may injure themselves in an attempt to run from the chase. Sheep that survive livestock worrying incidents can be affected for some time due to the stress they are put under. 

Wiltshire Police's top tips are:

🐕‍🦺 Keep your dog on a lead, even if you cannot see livestock. It is best to keep your dog on a short lead when you are closer to livestock

🐕‍🦺 Always ensure you have good control of your dog

🐕‍🦺 Plan ahead and bring dog treats with you to help ensure your dog is focused on your commands

🐕‍🦺 Look out for signage about livestock, and always adhere to what the signs say

🐕‍🦺 Always stick to designated footpaths and byways, and never tamper with fencing or trespass on to private land

🐕‍🦺 Ensure you clear up after your dog, as faeces can cause harm to livestock

Watch the videos below for more information about livestock worrying, and the significant distress it can cause to farmers and smallholders (please click the blue authorisation buttons below to access our YouTube videos):