Written by Rachel Martin
The Ulster Farmers’ Union says it is disappointed that another farming family has been left to deal with the aftermath of dog attacks.
UFU deputy president, Victor Chestnutt said Northern Ireland urgently needs changes to its livestock worrying legislation.
“This is a growing problem, and something needs to be done,” he said.
The comments were made after seven sheep were killed by dogs in Carrickfergus on November 8, 2018. The dogs hounded the sheep through the night before brutally attacking them.
Earlier this month, a pedigree flock of lambs in Angus was also attacked leading NFU Scotland to push the issue.
Chestnutt said: “Dog owners must take responsibility for their pets. It is not acceptable for dogs to be allowed to roam the countryside freely.
“When dogs get together in a pack they can be ruthless when to innocent, defenceless animals like sheep.
There is a consensus amongst dog owners that their pet dog would not engage in such attacks, however, I would urge dog owners to remember that the desire to hunt and chase is part of any dog’s natural instinct.
With reports of livestock worrying in Northern Ireland claimed to be at an all-time high, Chestnutt said the issue is a significant concern for UFU members.
“No farmer should have to go through this. It is not just the financial implications of a dog attack but also the emotional toll.
“It is a harrowing sight to see ewes and lambs that have been seriously injured or killed by dogs. Dog owners need to step up, but we also need tougher legislation brought forward.”
The importance of reporting
Chestnutt added that farmers should treat livestock worrying as they would an incident of rural crime.
“Report it to the PSNI and your local dog warden for investigation,” Chestnutt said.
“Despite a record number of reported incidences, we suspect livestock worrying is underreported. One of the things we can do is report every incident to help push it up the agenda.”
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