SHEEPWATCHUK has now recorded 930 dog attacks on sheep since January and, with many of those in lamb, the number of deaths tops 1,000 and with significant under-reporting of dog attacks on livestock, the number is likely to be higher.
With the issue gaining a higher profile and many people calling for a change, SheepWatchUK brought together a conference of key partners to look at the issues and find some way forward.
Dog groups were very keen to be part of the discussions, and the Kennel Club gave a presentation enforcing the need to be responsible by keeping back gardens secure.
Representatives from the farming world, the National Sheep Association, government and law enforcement organisations also attended.
SheepWatchUK’s Terena Plowright said: “It was a very constructive conference. I was delighted that, instead of just talking about it, there have been steps agreed across all partners that may make significant changes to this desperate situation.”