21/03/2025
Sheep & Livestock Worrying π
Did you know that keeping your dogs on a lead, especially during lambing season and always around livestock, can make a big difference?
Sheep & livestock worrying isn't just a minor inconvenience; it poses a serious threat to livelihoods and animal welfare. When dogs chase, attack, or stress out sheep, chickens, geese and other poultry livestock, this it can lead to devastating consequences. ππ
Pregnant ewes and their unborn and new-born lambs are particularly vulnerable, and even a brief moment of freedom for an unleashed dog can result in serious injury or death.
As responsible dog owners, it's important to recognise the impact our pets can have on rural communities. By keeping our dogs on a lead near fields with livestock, we not only comply with legal obligations but also show respect for farmers and the animals they care for. π¨βπΎπ©βπΎ
Our neighbouring Islands, Herm and Sark are both dog-friendly however it is essential to be mindful of a few rules while visiting the Islands throughout the year. π³
If you are visiting Herm π it is advised to keep dogs on leads in the more populated areas of Herm, throughout the harbour village, and around Manor Village at the top of the hill, where there are children and free-range chickens. Please do not allow your dogs to chase any wildlife. π¦π¦
If you are visiting Sarkπ
it is advised to keep dogs on leads throughout the island as some areas on Sark may have grazing livestock. As well as in the more populated areas of Sark, such as in and around the harbour, the Avenue, around the bike hire shops, convenience stores and post office. It is important to keep your dogs on a leash while walking up the Harbour Hill due to the tractor bus and towards the Avenue as on the left-hand side before the crossroads there will be horse and carriages. Please keep your dogs on leash while walking across La Coupee to Little Sark and please do not allow your dogs to chase any wildlife. π¦π¦
By taking simple steps like keeping our dogs on a lead, we can help ensure the safety of our countryside and our Islands for all. π