With Spring now upon us, dog owners are being reminded to be very careful to avoid the dangers of allowing their dogs off the lead on or near farmland, the Department’s hill lands and The Ayres National Nature Reserve.  This is a year-round concern, but is of particular importance during the lambing months of March to June and bird nesting periods, particularly April to July. 
 
Chairman of the Forestry, Amenity and Lands Directorate, Mr Juan Turner MLC, said “In recent years we have experienced some very serious and well-publicised incidents of sheep worrying. It is important to remember that any dog, regardless of breed, size, or temperament, is capable of causing serious injury or death to pregnant ewes and ewes with lambs.  Footpaths across the uplands obviously bring walkers and dogs in close proximity to sheep.  Problems also occur in plantations next to farmland, which is very popular with dog walkers and unleashed dogs have chased and attacked sheep in recent years.”
 
Mr Turner added: “Many farmers are still feeling the after effect of heavy losses caused by the snowfall in March last year. It is imperative to these farmers that every pregnant ewe and her subsequent lambs are given the best opportunity to flourish with minimal disturbance.  Farmers have the right to take action to protect their livestock in the event of dogs straying, and legal action can be taken against people who do not control their dogs.   Prosecutions can follow with severe penalties being imposed together with compensation claims.”
 
“In sensitive habitats, such as the uplands and the Ayres National Nature Reserve, unleashed dogs can disturb ground-nesting birds often leading to nest failure. Whilst the Department actively encourages the public to visit our beautiful countryside; increased access can lead to extra disturbance of our wildlife.