Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 28th March 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Police promote safe dog walking in countryside
The RSPCA advises dog owners to always keep their dogs on a lead when near livestock.
National week of action aims to tackle livestock worrying.

Dog owners are being urged to take care when walking their dog in the countryside, as part of a campaign by police and charities to tackle livestock worrying.

Operation Recall’s national week of action, running from 27 March to 3 April, will see police forces raising public awareness about how to walk dogs safely in the countryside.

Police drones will be used to monitor hot spot areas and a flagship event will be held at Tegg's Nose Country Park, Macclesfield, on Saturday, 30 March.

Dog owners are also being urged to sign a pledge to walk their dog responsibly and report any attacks to the police.

The campaign was founded last year by Cheshire Constabulary, in partnership with the RSPCA and Naturewatch Foundation as well as the National Rural Crime Unit. This year, forces around the country are taking part, including those in Hampshire, Gloucestershire, and Suffolk.

As part of its work to raise awareness about the impact of sheep worrying, Operation Recall has also produced an educational video which offenders have to watch if they receive a caution.

Recent research by the National Sheep Association, which is running its own Sheep Worrying Awareness Week from 25 March to 1 April, found that 78 per cent of the rural crime teams which responded to its survey had seen a rise in dog attacks on sheep in recent years.

In February, an incident in Devon, currently being investigated by the police, made headlines after more than 40 sheep, including lambs, were killed.

Kate Salmon, Operation Recall lead for Naturewatch Foundation, said: “The consequences of attacks for all animals involved can be devastating. Some people go out for a walk with their dog, or unknowingly allow their dog to escape their property and return home without their family pet.

“With more awareness and self-responsibility, people can enjoy their pets, whilst keeping them and livestock safe. We're calling for everyone to protect their dog and protect livestock.”

Image © Shutterstock

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.