'Keep your dogs on a lead' appeal from police to pet owners in Burnley as lambing season approaches

Dog walkers have been asked to keep their pets on leads when walking on public paths through farmland in Burnley and Pendle as lambing season approaches.
By Sue Plunkett
Published 11th Mar 2022, 16:51 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Burnley and Padiham police have also asked that dog owners be aware that their pets are their responsibility and, while farmers have exemption under law to shoot any dog uncontrolled on farmland currently at threat to their livestock,, this is seen as an 'absolute last resort.'

Read More
Iconic Burnley pizza takeaway awarded Food Hygiene rating

A spokesman for the East rural task force said: "Loose dogs can cause distress to sheep and during this time of year can cause the loss of the sheep's life and also the life of their lambs, young and unborn.

Police have appealed for dog owners to keep their pets on leads and away from sheep during lambing seasonPolice have appealed for dog owners to keep their pets on leads and away from sheep during lambing season
Police have appealed for dog owners to keep their pets on leads and away from sheep during lambing season
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"A sheep which is pregnant with two lambs for example is potentially worth £1000 towards their livelihood."

Prosecutions for criminal damage could potentially be sought against any dog owner for causing loss of life to livestock by not having their dog under control.