Dog walkers urged to control their pets

Cheshire police are reminding dog owners to keep their dogs under control, on a lead, when they are walking near livestock in the Cheshire countryside.

The advice comes after a sharp rise in livestock worrying offences, with family dogs – many unused to the open countryside and farm animals – suddenly bolting and chasing them, which in some cases they spotted several fields away.

PCSO Pam Graham said: “The owners in some cases have been left shocked by the fact their lovely family dog has suddenly – and completely out-of-character – attacked or chased sheep to the point the sheep have either died of fright or aborted their unborn lambs.

“I’d simply urge owners – no matter how reliable you think your dogs are – keep dogs on a lead near livestock.

“It’s better to be safe than sorry by using your lead to control your dog.”

This should avoid not only the devastation and financial cost to the farmer – who has lost his or her valuable sheep – but the trauma to the dog owner from their dog’s actions – and the possibility that your pet can legitimately be shot by the farmer.

“We want everyone to enjoy the countryside safely and responsibly- take a look at the countryside code to see how you can do your bit.”

To find out more about how to keep you, your pet and farm animals safe visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-countryside-code