A month-long campaign is being launched by Police Scotland to raise awareness among dog owners about the devastating effects of livestock worrying.
It coincides with a rise in sheep attacks by dogs during November, a time when sheep are brought down to low lying pasture, in areas more accessible by walkers.
The Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime, a multi-agency partnership which includes NFU Scotland, is working with organisations such as the National Sheep Association to promote responsible dog walking in the countryside.
Farmers and those who use the countryside are urged to report all incidents of livestock worrying to police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
Inspector Jane Donaldson, Police Scotland Rural Crime Co-ordinator, said: “Rural dog owners and those who choose to exercise their dogs in the countryside must ensure they are under control at all times and try to avoid going into fields where livestock is grazing.
“The worrying of sheep and other livestock by dogs not only has an obvious financial and emotional impact on farmers when their animals are killed or injured, but also has an effect on the animals themselves, their productivity and welfare.
“We are encouraging farmers and landowners to engage with dog walkers and to help keep them informed by putting up signs on gateways and on key roads and paths alerting them to the presence of sheep and other livestock in their fields and suggesting alternative routes”, added Inspector Donaldson.
'Cannot shy away'
Gemma Cooper, Policy Manager at NFU Scotland said during this time of year there is an increased likelihood of dogs walkers coming into contact with sheep.
"Livestock worrying in any form is unacceptable, and we cannot shy away from the fact that there have been a number of unfortunate instances where dogs caught in the process of worrying livestock have been shot by farmers," Mrs Cooper explained.
"The public must ensure that dogs in the countryside are kept on a lead, or under close control, and must never be allowed to worry livestock.
"Failure to do this can result in devastating consequences for both the farmer and the dog owner. NFUS is also aware of a number of recent cases where sanctions handed to irresponsible dog owners have been increasingly hefty-and this is something NFUS will continue to press for".
