FARMERS with experience of dog attacks on their sheep – and those who have escaped the problem – have been asked to add their stories to the latest survey by the National Sheep Association.

As part of its ongoing work to highlight the 'serious and devastating' issue of sheep worrying by dogs, the NSA has launched its annual survey on the topic, aiming to get up to date information on the ongoing severity and impact on the sector.

The association is inviting all UK sheep farmers, whether they have experienced issues with sheep worrying or not, to contribute to the survey, that will be open from now until March 25, by visiting www.sheepworrying.org.uk

NSA Policy and Technical Officer, Sean Riches said: “NSA receives calls from distressed sheep farmers who have experienced attacks on their flocks on a very regular basis.

“As a nation of animal lovers, it is difficult to comprehend how these devastating attacks are allowed to continue. This is a serious welfare issue, where sheep are regularly subjected to threats by dogs who chase and cause physical harm.”

Read more: Speak up about dog attacks on livestock

The 2022 survey is launched at an especially significant time for UK sheep flocks when many ewes are in the final stages of pregnancy or have young vulnerable lambs at foot, increasing the risk of miscarriage or mis-mothering due to stress from a sheep worrying attack.

Recent changes in legislation have been proposed to try and tackle the issue in England, but NSA has said that these do not go far enough, and failed to contain sufficient deterrents to prevent attacks happening. While in Scotland the legislation has been strengthened, NSA still feels there is an increased need for dog owner education.