Owners urged to keep dogs under control around livestock

Dog owners in the county are being urged to keep their pets on a lead, or under close control, after concerns raised by farmers.

Incidents have been reported in recent weeks of dogs worrying sheep, so NFU Scotland is reminding owners that if their pet injures or worries sheep they could face prosecution.

According to the union, last year livestock worrying in Scotland reached its highest level in six years.

Kenny Slater, NFUS group secretary in Kirkwall said: “It is very disappointing that despite the extensive awareness raising that has taken place in recent months on this issue, a small minority of the public continue to allow their dogs to worry sheep.

“NFU Scotland strongly supports a robust approach to this issue, including prosecution of irresponsible dog owners.”

“The worrying of sheep and other livestock by domestic dogs can have a very damaging impact on the livelihoods of farmers as well as cause significant and unnecessary distress to the animals themselves.

“Anyone walking their dog in the countryside should ensure they are familiar with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and also ensure their dogs are adequately controlled so that they are unable to cause distress or injury to farm animals.”