Farmers in Balfron are calling on dog owners to take more responsibility and keep their pets on leads following two sheep worrying incidents at Woodend Farm in west Stirlingshire. Louise and Andrew Paterson, the owners of the farm, shared that they have had to deal with sheep being chased across fields by dogs that were not under control on separate occasions in the past week.
Expressing their concern for the safety and well-being of their animals, Louise highlighted the importance of allowing pregnant sheep to have peace and rest in order to nurture healthy lambs. She appealed to dog owners to keep their pets on leads at all times while walking near farmland to prevent such incidents from reoccurring.
The recent incidents serve as a reminder of the potential risks that roaming dogs pose to livestock. Under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2021, dog owners can face imprisonment for up to a year and fines amounting to £40,000 if their dogs attack or worry livestock. In extreme cases, farm owners are legally allowed to shoot dogs that are out of control and posing a threat to their animals.
This plea from the farmers in Balfron comes in the wake of similar sheep worrying incidents reported across the region in recent years. From sheep being chased into rivers to sustaining injuries from dog attacks, the impact of such incidents on farmers and their livestock can be devastating.
As the farming community in Balfron emphasises the importance of responsible pet ownership, it is crucial for dog owners to adhere to these guidelines to ensure the safety of both their pets and the livestock in the area. By being mindful and proactive, dog owners can play a significant role in preventing conflicts between pets and farm animals, ultimately fostering a harmonious coexistence within the community.