Fermanagh and Omagh District Council have issued a reminder to dog owners to be extra vigilant around livestock over the next few months, particularly during the course of lambing season.
The council explained that livestock worrying by dogs remains a pertinent issue for farmers in the Fermanagh and Omagh District, with 30 incidents of suspected worrying reported last year.
Livestock worrying
According to a statement published by the council today (Thursday), April 9, worrying of livestock does not just signify the attack or slaughter of an animal, it also includes the act of chasing livestock.
This act alone can cause the animal serious stress and suffering, which can often lead to miscarriages and still births in pregnant animals, increasing the mortality rates of newborns.
Livestock worrying is an an offence under the Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983.
Similarly, the council said it is an offence to allow a dog onto land other than the owner’s own containing livestock if the dog is not “under control”, which the law has defined as “restrained by a chain or other sufficient leash held by someone exercising proper control over the dog”.
The person identified as responsible for a dog found guilty of such an offence is liable to a fine of up to £1,000, in addition to a potential court ruling, which may order the dog in question to be destroyed, the statement outlined.
Commenting on the issue, chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Cllr John McClaughry said: “The council recognises that the majority of dog owners in our district are very mindful of other people and other animals and take great care in keeping their dogs under control, which we are very grateful for.
“However, livestock worrying caused by dogs, unfortunately, still remains a significant issue.
“I urge all dog owners to always keep their dog on a lead when walking in rural areas, particularly where there are sheep grazing, and ensure their dogs are securely enclosed at their homes to prevent them escaping, particularly at night.”
According to the statement, authorised council officers reportedly hold the authority to seize any dog suspected of being involved in worrying or attacking livestock.
The council encouraged anyone who witnesses a suspected incident to report the case to the county’s dog control service.
