The Farmers’ Union of Wales Insurance Services (FUWIS) has warned those planning to visit the countryside over the Easter holidays to ensure their pet does not worry livestock.
The union said that, while Easter is a “joyful time for many”, it can also be stressful for farmers, livestock and those who come to visit the countryside.
FUWIS sales support executive Sarah Lloyd said one of the most frustrating things for a farmer is to a find a dog off the lead in their fields only to be told by the owner that the dog is under control.
“The sight of a dog chasing around the fields and worrying livestock will send a chill down the spine of any farmer,” she said.
“Worse still is to see a dog approach livestock only to be told by the owner that it’s ‘just playing with them’.
“This is simply not acceptable. The stress however doesn’t stop there if concerns around financial losses are added.”
Kept Animals Bill
The FUW said it has long stressed that a change is “needed urgently” when it comes to livestock worrying.
Deputy president of the FUW, Ian Rickman, said the union has been clear that whilst the new bill is currently progressing through the House of Commons, urgent action is need to tackle the issue of livestock worrying.
“Many of the provisions in the bill are to be welcomed, especially those provisions which will provide greater investigative and enforcement powers to police forces. However, some concerns remain,” he said.
“Not many of us would be able to distract a dog that has become excitable around livestock in a field and the consequences of such behaviour for both the livestock and the dog in question could be devastating.”
