Could Your Dog Get You a Criminal Record? Police Warn Walkers to Take the Lead

Dog owners are being urged to keep their pets under control, especially during lambing season, as Devon & Cornwall Police warn that livestock worrying is a criminal offence that can lead to fines, prison sentences, and even the destruction of dogs.

Rising Cases of Livestock Attacks

Between 1st January and 6th March, police recorded 38 incidents of livestock worrying across Devon and Cornwall. One such case in February saw a sheep in Culmstock attacked by two dogs. The injured animal required emergency veterinary treatment, and the dog owner admitted the offence, covering the vet’s costs. She was handed a dog control order, meaning her dogs must be kept on a lead at all times outside the home. If she fails to comply, she could be taken to court, and her dogs could be put to sleep.

Mid Devon Sector Inspector Mark Arthurs said:

“The Mid Devon Neighbourhood Policing Team would like to highlight the importance of keeping your dogs under control now Spring has sprung.

“As we enjoy the lighter evenings, we are seeing more cattle and sheep with their offspring in the fields. It is really important that while dog owners are enjoying the finer weather they remember dogs should always be under control and on a lead in the presence of livestock or cattle. It’s simply not worth the risk of your dog running off and worrying or injuring grazing animals.”

Farmers have the legal right to shoot dogs that are attacking their livestock. Inspector Arthurs added:

“A dog worrying sheep or cattle could be shot by a farmer or if the dog is dangerously out of control police may seek a court order for the destruction of the dog(s).

“Livestock worrying is a highly emotive subject with the farming community, they not only suffer the financial implications of these attacks but the emotional impact too. I would implore dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead and choose fenced off dog exercise parks to let their dogs off the lead. We live in a great area of the country and while I want people to enjoy our rural communities, I need to highlight that livestock worrying could result in a criminal record for the dog owner and the person in charge of the dog at the time.”

South West Hit Hard by Dog Attacks

A recent report from the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) revealed that dog attacks on livestock across the UK cost an estimated £2.4 million last year, a 30% rise from the previous year. The South West was the worst-affected region, with attacks causing an estimated £359,000 in damages.

Devon & Cornwall Police are supporting Operation Recall, a national effort aimed at reducing livestock attacks by raising awareness of responsible dog ownership. PC Julian Fry from the Rural Crime Team explained that officers, special constables, and volunteers will be engaging with the public to provide advice on preventing livestock attacks.

“If you are walking your dog in an open space, make sure it is under effective control at all times. Dogs should not be unaccompanied outside of the home and their behaviour should always be managed – especially around livestock. We want owners to Take The Lead and prevent harm to animals.”

What Dog Owners Need to Know

• Livestock worrying includes more than just chasing, biting, or killing—even barking can cause stress and harm to animals.
• All dogs in public places must wear a collar and name tag.
• Dog waste on grazing land can cause serious health issues for livestock, leading to costly vet bills for farmers. Always pick up after your dog.
• If you witness a livestock attack, do not intervene. If it is happening at the time, call 999. For past incidents, report them online or call 101. Anonymous tips can be submitted via CrimeStoppers at 0800 555 111.

With cases on the rise, police are stepping up patrols in rural areas, not only to monitor dog control but also to combat other crimes, including plant and farm machinery theft.

Dog owners are reminded that failing to keep their pets under control could have devastating consequences—not only for livestock but for themselves and their animals too.