🚨 Important Update: Dog Owners & Walkers – Livestock Worrying Laws Have Changed 🐕🐑

Recent updates to the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) legislation mean stronger powers and clearer responsibilities for anyone walking dogs in the countryside — including on public footpaths.

Key changes:

• Unlimited fines for livestock worrying

• More animals protected, including alpacas and llamas

• Law now applies in fields, enclosures, roads and public rights of way

• Police can seize dogs, enter premises with a warrant and collect forensic evidence

What counts as livestock worrying?

It’s not just attacking or biting. Worrying includes:

• Chasing, running at, harassing or scaring livestock

• A dog being loose among animals and not fully under control

• No physical contact needed – stress alone can cause miscarriages, injuries or panic

Proper control – what it really means:

A dog is only under proper control if the handler can prevent it from approaching or chasing livestock at all times.

• Leads must be short and secure

• Flexi leads + long lines often don’t meet the standard

• Off-lead control must be instant and reliable – hesitation or running towards livestock means it’s not under proper control

Dog seizures:

Dogs are not automatically destroyed. Seizure is usually for evidence or to prevent repeat incidents. Destruction orders are rare.

Remember:

🐑 Livestock don’t need to be bitten for an offence

🐕 “Friendly” or “never done it before” is not a defence

🚶‍♂️ Walkers are responsible for preventing risk, not reacting after it happens

These laws protect farmers and animals — please share to help prevent future incidents.