Police Scotland have teamed up with the SSPCA to remind dog owners of their responsibilities during lambing season.
The two forces joined together to highlight the dangers of sheep worrying and stress that it is an offence in Scotland.
And they have reminded dog owners of the chilling right that farmers have to shoot dogs they suspect of worrying on their land.
SSPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn asked dog owners to “keep dogs on a lead around farm animals at all times”.
He told Lanarkshire Live: “Sheep and lambs are more vulnerable at this time of year and the stress caused by a sheep being chased can lead to them miscarrying or even death.
“Often lambs or sheep caught by a dog have to be put to sleep due to their injuries. It can also be devastating for the farmer responsible for the sheep, emotionally and financially.
“Farmers are legally allowed to shoot a dog if it is seen to be worrying their animals so please always keep your dog away from all farm animals.”
Chief Superintendent Flynn’s warning comes just weeks after a family were left heartbroken after their puppy was shot and killed by a farmer.
The pet died on a farm in Ballingry, Fife, after an incident of sheep worrying.
In Scotland, under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953, a landowner can shoot a dog believed to be worrying livestock, or if they think it would cause injury or suffering to their animals.
Police and the SSPCA issued a list of tips to be followed by dog owners, particularly at this time of year during lambing:
We’re urging dog owners to follow these tips;
- Keep your on a lead at all times when near agricultural land or farm animals.
- Keep the lead short (2metres or shorter is recommended).
- Avoid taking your dog into a field where there are lambs.
- In open land, stay distant from sheep.
You can visit the National Sheep website to find out more information on making sure you don't break any rules.
