POLICE in the Scottish Borders say that they are continuing to receive reports of dogs attacking livestock.

Livestock attacks and worrying is the phrase used when a dog attacks or worries livestock animals in rural and farmland areas.

This crime usually takes place in the countryside and is a particular problem when dogs, even those that are well trained, are off their leads or are roaming without an owner or person in charge with them. In doing so, they often scare or attack livestock animals.

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Whilst many owners are unaware of the impact their dogs are having on livestock, it is their responsibility to ensure attacks and worrying don't happen. They should ensure their dog doesn't disturb or attack these animals, otherwise there are consequences under the law if it does occur.

Some examples of livestock worrying include: a dog chasing livestock in a manner that could cause injury or suffering, the stress caused to the animal by the presence of the dog, could, in the case of female livestock, cause abortion or miscarriage, livestock becoming desperate in their attempts to escape and injure themselves in doing so, and dogs who chase ewes or lambs may cause them to separate from their mothers, later dying of starvation or hyperthermia. 

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Officers say that it is important for dog owners to be aware that livestock are valuable assets and any harm to them could significantly affect the livestock owners livelihood. 

There's a number of things owners can do to reduce the chances of their dog committing a livestock attack or worrying crime.

When in the countryside, be wary of your dog approaching other animals. Try to stop your dog coming into contact with livestock. Remember, in the countryside, it may not always be obvious when animals are around.

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If you're in an area where livestock are nearby, always keep your dog in your sights and maintain control over them. If you can't guarantee this, use a lead.

It's important to be aware that under certain circumstances, land owners can shoot your dog if it is attacking or causing distress to their animals.

Pc Hannah Corbett, wildlife crime and environmental officer, said the owners of dogs which attack and worry livestock can now be imprisoned and fined up to £40,000, and that dogs do not have to actually attack sheep to cause them extreme stress or death.

“Farmers are legally entitled to protect their livestock, which can result in the destruction of a dog by being shot,” she said.

“Whilst no farmer wants to resort to this option, it is legal, though it could be easily avoided if owners ensure that their dogs are controlled around livestock.

“When you are walking your dogs near livestock, please ensure that your dog is kept under control, restrained on a lead, even if you can usually trust it to recall.”

Police said anyone wanting to report livestock worrying can contact them on 101, or on their website.