The Welsh government has urged dog owners keep their pets under control to protect lambs and other livestock as lambing season continues.
Research has found that most livestock worrying incidents occur on land that is not accessible to the public, the government said.
Because of this, Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths and rural and wildlife crime coordinator Rob Taylor have come together to emphasise the importance of keeping dogs on leads and under control in rural areas.
“We have seen the very sad and distressing images where dogs have attacked livestock,” Griffiths said.
“We know most people are doing the right thing in keeping control of their dogs, but we also recognise that some are not.”
Griffiths said livestock worrying results in “emotional and financial costs” for those who own or find dead and injured livestock, saying that it is “simply unacceptable”.
“Responsible dog ownership is key and by taking the required steps, lambs and other livestock will be safe,” she said.
Taylor echoed Griffiths sentiments, adding that dog owners need to be aware of a dog’s natural instincts around livestock.
“Owners need to be aware that it is a dog’s natural instinct to chase or even attack livestock, and at this time of year, it is more harrowing when ewes are pregnant or with already born lambs,” he said.
“We ask owners to be aware of the risks and use common sense, by walking dogs where livestock are not present.
“It’s vital they understand that an attack on livestock, although unintended, may result in their pet being shot, or euthanised on a court order after a conviction and nobody wants that to happen.”
