Operation Recall 27/03/2024 – 03/04/2024

Yesterday we launched the national “Operation Recall week of Action” alongside 20 other police forces across the country in a bid to raise awareness around livestock worrying. 

Here in Leicestershire and Rutland, the team have noticed an increase in reports of Livestock worrying and wanted to take action to support our farming community and to protect livestock and dogs from harm. 

Livestock worrying is when a dog is not under control, either by way of a lead or otherwise under close control, in an area where there is livestock. A dog does not have to make physical contact with livestock and includes the chasing of animals.

Livestock can be easily stressed by dogs which can lead to Ewes sadly aborting their lambs. Cattle and sheep are often chased, which can result in injuries such as becoming crushed, suffocation, suffering a cardiac arrest, breaks to legs, cuts from becoming entangled in hedgerows, fencing and wire. Some dogs will also attack the livestock leading to some catastrophic injuries and even death. 

Livestock worrying can so easily be avoided if dog owners follow some simple steps. 

Please note that if your dog is worrying livestock and cannot be quickly controlled, the farmer has a defence in law to shoot the dog. This is always a last resort, but it is in your interest to protect your family pet.

Remember- It is never the dog’s fault. They are only doing what comes naturally. It is your responsibility to prevent livestock worrying. Please be responsible and keep our animals safe!

The Rural Team have been busy distributing signs for farmers and landowners, displaying posters and leaflets across the county in community centres, shops, vets, and other focal areas. We have today been to Melton Country park, speaking to it visitors and raising awareness. Across the bank holiday we will also be visiting many of our beautiful country parks and dog walking hotspots with our pop up stand. We hope to see many of you this bank holiday weekend!