POLICE have welcomed updated legislation to allow unlimited fines for people found guilty of irresponsible dog ownership across Exmoor and West Somerset.

The amended law will offer increased protection for sheep, cows, and other farm animals when it comes into effect on March 18.

The legislation means alpacas and llamas are now recognised as livestock, and incidents occurring on roads and public paths will now also be treated as offences and do not have to actually happen in fields or enclosures.

Devon and Cornwall Police rural affairs officer PC Jules Fry said: “Many dog owners may not be aware of livestock worrying laws or may think their dog momentarily chasing farm animals is harmless, but these incidents can cause animals to experience extreme stress, which can lead to pregnancy loss, injuries, and fatalities.

“The best way to protect both dogs and livestock is for owners to keep their dogs on a lead anywhere near livestock or where livestock could be encountered.

“The only exception would be if you are chased by cattle, in which case you should release your dog and move quickly and calmly away from the herd.”

PC Fry said police officers will have wider powers to investigate and act on incidents of livestock worrying.

They will be able to seize and detain dogs suspected of chasing, attacking, or threatening livestock, enter premises under a warrant to collect potential evidence, and take forensic samples from dogs by collecting DNA or mouth impressions and other means.

PC Fry said: “The changes will bring stronger powers which will allow us to thoroughly investigate incidents of livestock worrying and to take action against irresponsible owners whose dogs are proven to have caused harm to innocent animals.”

A National Sheep Association survey found nearly 87 per cent of sheep farmers experienced one or more dog attacks on their flock in 2024.