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Dog owners urged to prevent lambing season attacks
“Attacks on livestock are completely preventable through responsible dog ownership” – Rob Taylor.
Minister says responsible dog ownership is key.

The Welsh government is reminding owners to keep their dog under control when out in the countryside during lambing season.

In order to prevent livestock worrying, dog owners are asked to familiarise themselves with Natural Resources Wales’ Countryside Code.

The code instructs owners to keep their dogs on lead or in sight, be confident they will return on command, and make sure they won’t stray from the path or area where there is right of access. The code also states that it is good practice is always keep a dog on a lead around livestock, except in situations where you feel threatened.

On land labelled ‘open access’, dogs must legally be kept on a lead between 1 March and 31 July, even when there is no livestock in the vicinity.

Rural affairs minister Lesley Griffiths said: “Responsible dog ownership is key in keeping lambs, sheep and all other livestock safe.

“We know most dog owners do the right thing in keeping their dogs under control, but there are some who do not.

“There have been harrowing images of when attacks do happen and by taking the appropriate steps these can be prevented.”

Rob Taylor, Wales rural and wildlife crime coordinator, added: “Attacks on livestock are completely preventable through responsible dog ownership. Sadly, attacks on pregnant ewes or newborn lambs at this time of year do still occur.

“We ask that owners are aware of the risks, use a precautionary approach in controlling their dog and understand the route on which they take them to exercise.

“An attack on livestock may result in their pet being shot, or euthanised on a court order. Nobody wants to see that happening.”

The UK government has recently backed a bill that will give the police in England and Wales greater powers to tackle livestock worrying.

Image © Shutterstock

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.