Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Dog Control and Animal Welfare team reminded dog owners to keep dogs secure on their property and under control at all times, particularly near livestock. The council highlighted livestock worrying as dogs attacking or chasing animals on agricultural land or entering fields with livestock, which can cause injury, suffering or death to the animals.

Principal Environmental Health Officer Enda Cummins stated that livestock worrying includes any chasing likely to cause animal suffering or financial loss to owners. He noted that such incidents lead to costs from lost stock, veterinary treatment, abortions in affected animals and property damage.

Cummins added that dogs involved in sheep worrying often injure multiple animals in pursuit of the chase, potentially devastating flocks. Farmers or landowners may shoot dogs found attacking or worrying livestock in certain cases.

Council dog wardens can seize any dog suspected of involvement in livestock attacks, regardless of breed. Owners face prosecution for offences, and courts may order destruction of the dogs. Farmers can pursue civil claims for financial losses.

Dog wardens respond to all reported incidents. Witnesses to dogs worrying or attacking livestock should call 028 71253253 during office hours or the emergency line 07734128096 for ongoing attacks.