NEW signs are to go up to remind people to keep their dogs under control around livestock.
The bright red signs were launched at the Royal Bath and West Show by Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens and the rural crime team.
So far this year there have been a number of sheep attacks across Avon and Somerset, including an incident in April when nearly 40 sheep were killed outright or died as a result of two dog attacks.
The signs remind dog owners to ‘stop and think’ before entering a field and they can be fitted on a gate or fence post.
Mrs Mountstevens said: “This spring we saw a number of devastating attacks of sheep by dogs.
“Sheep are highly-strung animals and in lambing season any stress caused to a pregnant ewe can cause them to lose their lambs, which has a massive impact our farmers.
“This issue is of real concern, particularly because it can be prevented so easily and I’m pleased to be able to support the rural crime team in raising awareness of this upsetting issue.”
The NFU Mutual estimated that over 18,500 livestock were killed or injured in dog attacks in 2015. The cost of this to farmers was estimated at £1.1 million – a rise of 35 per cent on the previous year.
PC Katy Drabble, from the rural crime team, said: “Even if an owner thinks their dog is placid and friendly, when faced with a field full of livestock they can be unpredictable.
“It’s simply not worth taking the risk – keep dogs on leads and away from livestock."