Sheep farmers urged to report cases of sheep worrying
Police highlight under-reported issue affecting Wiltshire farmers
Police in Wiltshire are urging sheep farmers across the county to report attacks on their livestock, insisting it's vital they do so.
The Force is also calling for dog owners to remain vigilant as sheep worrying continues to affect local farmers.
Inspector Andy Lemon, the tactical lead for the rural crime team in Wiltshire, explained that the issue is common and often goes unreported to the authorities.
"Most farmers don't report it, but they subsequently tell us when we go out there and engage with them, or if we hold meetings, they'll come and obviously they'll highlight it as a problem to them," he said.
Asked what might be preventing the reports being made, Inspector Lemon said farmers are "busy people".
"Let's not forget how genuinely busy they are. It's a busy time of the year and sometimes they're just accepting that they're just going to write off, obviously, the cost to themselves, and sometimes they see it as an aggravation," he told us.
Attacks can put farmers out of business
Insp. Lemon said the impact of sheep worrying can be devastating to a farmers livelihood, not to mention the tragic affect it can have on the animals.
Lemon says, "It has massive impacts, including financial implications from the potential loss of sheep and lamb, as well as the costs associated with veterinary bills."
Farmers may also face emotional distress due to their connection with the animals, which could influence their livelihoods, with Insp. Lemon saying it can be the difference between a business surviving or going under.
He added that farmers are within their rights to protect their livestock, with the Inspector highlighting a recent case where a dog was shot while it was attacking sheep.
"That farmer has done everything he can to stop, obviously, that dog attacking his sheep and trying to move that dog away, but unfortunately, it was a last resort," he said.
Public told to follow signs and keep dogs under control
Police advise dog owners to be mindful of signage put up by farmers and to keep their dogs on leads when walking through fields with livestock.
Inspector Lemon said: "People might say that they know their dogs, but instinct is for a dog to chase other animals.
"Especially if your dog is excitable and likes to run, please, keep it on a lead when you're in a field with livestock"
In case of witnessing sheep worrying or a dog that seems out of control, the public is encouraged to call 999.
Lemon is urging anyone affected by sheep worrying to report incidents to the police, ensuring a timely response and investigation.
To report issues and conserve the local agricultural community, Lemon added, "We will dispatch police units to investigate and follow up."