Working together to stop livestock worrying

Stratford-on-Avon District Council's Rural Crime Advisors are participating in 'Operation Recall', a national initiative to raise awareness of livestock worrying.

The initiative is being promoted by Warwickshire Police who are working with other forces around the country and other partner agencies, such as the National Farmers' Union (NFU), Country Land and Business Association (CLA), National Sheep Association and the RSPCA.

As the weather improves and newborn and young animals can be seen across the countryside, reports of livestock worrying sadly increase at this time of year, including deaths and injury due to attacks by dogs on all kinds of animals, especially sheep.

To help with this initiative, the District Council's team is building on their work around livestock worrying as they continue to raise awareness of the importance of responsible dog ownership across South Warwickshire.

This work involves visiting rural areas where dog attacks on livestock have already been reported, to discuss safe dog walking with members of the public and provide the National Sheep Association's Enjoy your dog walks information leaflet.

Under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953, it is a criminal offence for a dog to actively worry livestock and dog owners risk prosecution.

Whilst the majority of dog owners do walk their dogs in a responsible manner, unfortunately there are a small minority whose recklessness puts the welfare of other animals at risk.

Cllr Natalie Gist, Law and Governance Portfolio said: "This is a significant initiative in a rural area like Stratford-on-Avon District, where livestock worrying is a perennial problem. It is important that the District Council's Rural Crime Advisors continue to build on the work they have already done with local communities last year and carry on taking an active role in Operation Recall."

If you would like further information or think your local area would benefit from a visit from the District Council's Rural Crime Advisors, Rebecca Jenkins and Alison Packer, or would like 'Operation Recall' leaflets to distribute in your local area please email: community.safety@stratford-dc.gov.uk or visit Rural Crime | Stratford-on-Avon District Council

If you have livestock and would like a 'Dog on Lead' sign, please email: ruralwatch@warwickshire.police.uk

If you are having regular issues with livestock worrying near you and would like additional support, please get in contact with the Warwickshire Police Rural Crime Team at RuralCrimeTeam@warwickshire.police.uk