Blunsdon farmer Liz Webster has called for a campaign to raise awareness of the dangers dogs can bring to the countryside.

There has been an estimated 50 per cent rise in the cost of farm animals being attacked by dogs during the first quarter of 2021.

That is according to research by rural insurer NFU Mutual, which found a surge in lockdown pets, countryside visits and a lack of awareness for their dogs around farm animals were contributing factors. 

Dog attacks on farm animals increased by more than 10 per cent  last year, causing estimated damage of up to £1.3 million. 

Petbuzz Market Research surveyed 1,237 dog owners on behalf of NFU Mutual, with results showing that 64 per cent of dog owners let their dog off the leash in the countryside. Half of those admitting that they don’t always come back when called.

Ms Webster fears not just for the safety of the animals but also the public.

“We need to do more to educate the public,” said Ms Webster, who for the Wiltshire PCC role last month.

“We need to raise a public awareness campaign. If you walk through the centre of a field, you are putting your life in danger; the cow will be going to be protective of their calves. 

“It isn’t like you’re walking in Hyde Park, it’s Jurassic Park.

“People need to respect farmers who are working hard in these difficult times."

Ms Webster has an estimated 350 cattle on her Water Eaton farm and noted how the cattle are often spooked, which she believes is because of dogs being off their leashes. 

Rebecca Davidson, rural affairs specialist at NFU Mutual, stated: “NFU Mutual’s latest figures confirm the harrowing reports coming in from across the UK of livestock horrifically injured and killed by out of control dogs. The suffering to animals and the anxiety for farmers could be easily prevented if people kept their dogs on a lead when out in the countryside,” 

“We want people to enjoy the countryside and recognise its importance to our physical and mental wellbeing. We are urging people to be responsible and take the following advice: 

  • Always keep dogs on the lead when walking in rural areas where livestock are kept but let go of the lead if chased by cattle
  • Be aware that even small dogs can chase, injure and kill farm animals
  • Report attacks by dogs and sightings of dogs roaming the countryside to the police or local farmers 
  • Don’t let dogs loose and unsupervised in gardens adjoining livestock fields – many attacks are caused by dogs which escape and attack sheep grazing nearby.

Advice on preventing dogs from attacking livestock is available from NFU Mutual’s website: www.nfumutual.co.uk/news-and-stories/preventing-dog-attacks-on-farm-animals/