Rural Communities Suffer as Sheep Face Attacks During Lambing Season

Incidents involving dogs resulted in losses approaching £2 million for livestock last year, according to figures from NFU Mutual.

The farm insurer is urging pet owners to keep their dogs on leads during the Easter holiday period to prevent further harm.

Hannah Binns, a rural affairs expert at NFU Mutual, explained that the Easter weekend presents a wonderful opportunity for people to explore and appreciate Britain’s countryside, but visitors should remember that these iconic landscapes serve as places of work, provide livelihoods for farming families, and are home to numerous sheep and young lambs.

Research conducted by NFU Mutual showed that more than half of dog owners allow their pets to run loose in countryside areas.

One in ten admitted that their dogs ignore commands to return.

Ms Binns added that regardless of breed or temperament, all dogs possess the potential to chase, injure, or kill farm animals.

She noted that even without physical contact, the stress of being pursued can cause exhaustion and anxiety in sheep, and may separate lambs from their mothers, potentially leaving young animals orphaned.

The warning comes as an amendment to the Animal Welfare (Livestock) Act takes effect.

The legislation grants police expanded powers to address dog attacks on farm animals across England and Wales.