Malvern farmer loses 10 sheep in a year after dog chases

CONCERNS: Malvern grazier John Chance has lost 10 sheep in a year after they were chased or attacked by dogs. <i>(Image: Newsquest)</i>
CONCERNS: Malvern grazier John Chance has lost 10 sheep in a year after they were chased or attacked by dogs. (Image: Newsquest)
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A farmer has lost 10 sheep in a year after they were chased or attacked by dogs.

John Chance, who grazes animals on the Malvern Hills, said that five of his sheep had been injured or killed by dogs in one week alone.

Police have now called for people to keep their pets under control while walking in the area.

"Responsible dog ownership is essential in preventing sheep and livestock worrying," said PC Nigel Bolton, rural crime officer.

"You should always keep your dog under control and on a lead when around livestock, even if you believe your dog is well-trained.

"Even well-behaved dogs can exhibit predatory behaviour around livestock like sheep or cows.

CRACKDOWN: Police are cracking down on sheep worrying in the Malvern Hills(Image: West Mercia Police)

"This behaviour can cause the animals to become extremely stressed or injured and can be fatal.

"Livestock worrying isn't just a risk to animal welfare, it can cause significant distress and financial losses to farmers like John whose stock regularly graze on the Malvern Hills."

Police have joined forces with Malvern Hills Trust rangers, Malvern Hills District Council and National Sheep Association to crack down on sheep worrying as part of Rural Crime Action Week.


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Malvern Hills Trust CEO Deborah Fox said there was even a sheep worrying incident as the various groups met on the hills to speak to the public about the issue on Thursday (September 11).

At a meeting of the trust's board, Ms Fox said the issue had become "acute".

"It has become really acute this year," she said. "While we were doing the session, another dog worried a sheep.

"It's a societal issue, not an issue just unique to the Malvern Hills."

She added that there were two ways that dog owners respond when asked to put their dogs on a lead.

"Ones that say 'I'm really sorry, I didn't realise' and put their dogs on a lead and others that walk on by and don't engage with you," she said.

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