Spring is upon us, and this means it’s lambing season. With sheep and their lambs in fields, it is imperative that dogs are kept on a lead and under control. Even if you think your dog would never chase sheep, this cannot be guaranteed, so please be prepared and keep your dog on a lead until well away from sheep and other livestock.
Sheep worrying can have a catastrophic effect on pregnant sheep, as they will abort their lambs, and if the sheep is attacked, injuries can be so severe that they need to be euthanised. Sheep and other livestock are protected under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Scotland Act 2021 and there are fines of up to £40,000 and prison sentences for dog owners who let their pets worry, kill or injure livestock.