The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and the Ulster Farmers Union (UFU) have issued a reminder to dog owners to keep pets under control during lambing season to avoid livestock worrying in Northern Ireland.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir stated that livestock worrying causes harm to animals and distress to farming families. He noted that a short chase by a dog can injure livestock. Muir added that allowing a dog onto land with livestock without control is a criminal offence under the Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983. Owners of dogs that attack, kill or chase livestock, leading to injury, suffering or financial loss, face prosecution. He advised using leads near farmland and preventing dogs from straying from homes or gardens.

UFU Deputy President John McLenaghan said farming families suffer after dog attacks on livestock. He pointed out lambing season challenges for sheep farmers. McLenaghan highlighted costs from injuries and deaths, including veterinary bills and lost income. He stressed that any dog can cause damage by chasing livestock, even without contact, leading to abortions in ewes or lamb deaths. He called for dogs to remain on leads at all times near livestock.

Livestock worrying incidents result in animal injuries, miscarriages or deaths. They also damage farm fences, hedges and gates. Chased animals may escape onto roads or other properties.

Dog owners must ensure control near farmland. Farmers should check stock regularly, secure boundaries and report loose dogs to council dog wardens. Councils enforce the law through dog wardens.