In a significant move to safeguard farm animals, a new law has come into effect in England and Wales aimed at protecting livestock from the increasing threat of dog attacks. This legislation arises from a troubling trend, with reports indicating that 87% of sheep farmers experienced a dog attack on their flocks in 2024 alone. The cost of livestock worrying has surged, now reaching nearly £2 million, a 10% increase from the previous year.
The law not only raises the maximum penalty for livestock worrying from £1,000 to an unlimited fine but also grants police the authority to seize and detain dogs that attack or worry livestock. This change is expected to provide farmers with greater peace of mind, as emphasized by Dame Angela Eagle, who stated, “Farmers can now have greater peace of mind knowing that proper penalties are in place for people who carelessly let their dogs worry livestock.”
Regions like the Midlands and Southeast have been particularly hard hit, with an estimated £438,000 and £330,000 worth of livestock harmed by dog attacks, respectively. The law also extends its protection to incidents occurring on roads and paths, acknowledging the diverse environments in which these attacks can occur.
Moreover, the definition of livestock has been broadened to include camelids such as llamas and alpacas, reflecting a growing awareness of the variety of animals that farmers care for. Farmers are now advised to report, record, and retain information about any livestock worrying incidents, ensuring that data is available to support future enforcement actions.
The Responsible Dog Ownership taskforce has been reconvened to provide recommendations on responsible dog ownership, highlighting the importance of community involvement in preventing these incidents. As the conversation around dog ownership evolves, the hope is that responsible practices will become the norm.
In a cultural nod, the O’Donovan brothers recently released an album titled “Pull Like A Dog,” which has been praised as a strong contender for Album Of The Year. Their catchy phrase, “close your eyes and pull like a dog,” resonates with the spirit of resilience and determination, much like the farmers facing the challenges posed by dog attacks.
As this new law takes effect, observers are keen to see how it will impact the ongoing struggle between dog owners and livestock farmers. The hope is that with stricter penalties and increased awareness, the number of dog attacks on livestock will decline, allowing farmers to protect their livelihoods and the animals they care for.
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