Livestock worrying is when a dog you own or are in charge of attacks or chases livestock on agricultural land. Livestock includes cattle, sheep, goats, swine, horses or poultry. Agricultural land includes fields, pig and poultry farms, allotments, nurseries and orchards.
Dog owners
If you are in charge of a dog in an agricultural area you must:
- keep your dog on a lead when near livestock
- keep your dog in sight at all times
- only walk where you have permission or on marked footpaths
- take bags to pick up your dog's waste
Livestock worrying is against the law and you may be fined for your dog's actions. Landowners are legally allowed to protect their livestock, which means they can injure or kill any dog that is worrying or about to worry livestock.
Landowners and farmers
If you are a landowner or farmer and your livestock is being worried you must:
- report the event to the police (using 999 if it is happening or 101 if the dog has left)
- take photos or videos of the dog and owner for evidence
- record any treatment costs of your livestock
- stay legal and remember that shooting a dog is the last resort
For more information about livestock worrying, visit the National Sheep Association website.
The full legislation can be found in the: