The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) has said a project using canine DNA technology from livestock attacks is taking its next step in the process of further development.
Led by Liverpool’s John Moores University, the project will now begin the task of distributing Canine DNA collecting kits to FUW representatives to share with hotspot areas that are seeing recurring problems with dog attacks affecting farms across Wales.
The kits include swabs, scissors, tape, detailed instructions for DNA collection and information regarding the project.
It is hoped that this trial period of testing and collecting could lead to an expansion of the project leading to evidence gathering that could lead to prosecution down the line.
Panel discussion
A panel discussion regarding the project is taking place at the Royal Welsh Show today (Wednesday, July 24).
Dr. Nick Dawnay, a forensic scientist with 20 years of experience is the Canine DNA Recovery Project lead, is one of the four panel members.
He also lectures in pharmacy and biomolecular sciences at Liverpool John Moores University.
Rhys Evans of North Wales Police’s rural crime team, who runs a smallholding in Anglesey keeping cattle and sheep, will also offer his insight to the project, together with newly elected Carmarthen MP, Ann Davies.
She is working closely with Ceredigion MP, Ben Lake who is progressing the change in legislation at Westminster.
Wyn Evans, a beef and sheep farmer based in the Ystwyth Valley, is the fourth panel member.
He has had personal dealings with dog attacks on his farm and is urging the public to keep their dogs on leads whilst walking in the countryside.
The panel discussion will be chaired by FUW’s regional vice president, Anwen Hughes, who said:
“I have been keeping my eye on the developments of this project since its inception and have been involved in many of the discussions regarding livestock worrying issues in Wales, on behalf of FUW members.
“It is difficult to unsee the horror left behind after dogs have attacked and disfigured sheep in a field.
“It impacts our own mental health and well-being, in addition to the cost implications it has on the business. It is a harrowing situation to be in.”
