A sheep has been put down after being attacked by a dog on the Malvern Hills.
The incident happened on Monday 27th July near to West of England car park where a lamb had left the grazing compartment. The lamb suffered severe injuries and was immediately treated by a vet. Despite being cared for by the grazier, the animal did not recover from its injuries and for its wellbeing, had to be put to down.
We'd like to remind people that although cattle and sheep on the Hills can be found within the electric-fenced enclosures listed in Stockwatch, you should expect to find livestock anywhere, at any time on the Malvern Hills and Commons.
The enclosures are not 100% stock proof and the Hills and Commons are registered common land, which means cattle and sheep can be found freely in the landscape, outside of our grazing projects.
If you're at all in doubt about how your dog will react or you cannot guarantee that your pet will come back to you if it takes interest in sheep, please keep it on a lead at all times. We can work together to totally remove the issue of livestock worrying by simply putting your pet on a lead.
Livestock worrying, which includes chasing, is a crime and the details of this incident have been passed on to the police who are dealing with the report.
Beck added “These incidents are very distressing for the grazier who has to deal with the traumatic injuries, the cost of veterinary care and loss of part of their livelihood.”
A second incident that occurred last week where two dogs were allowed to chase sheep on the Hills is also being followed up by the Trust. No animals were injured during this incident but chasing does stress the sheep and can result in secondary injuries for example broken legs or abortion of lambs if sheep are pregnant.
Stockwatch
We provide information each week about where the animals are grazing within the electric-fenced enclosures. This can help you be prepared to put your pet on a lead and avoid these areas if you wish to lower your chances of encountering livestock. However, you should be ready to meet livestock any where at any time on the Malvern Hills and Commons.
Check the location of the grazing compartments and find out more here.
Sheep Safe Courses
Working with a local dog behaviourist, we provide opportunities for dog owners to learn how to encourage their pets to ignore livestock. Six-week courses are led by dog behaviourist Sue Harper. More information can be found by contacting Sue directly at sharperdogs@hotmail.co.uk
