Preventing Sheep Worrying
A Unique Service Which Teaches Your Dog To Understand Sheep
All Breeds of Dog Welcome
The problem of sheep worrying is very serious, yet with training and understanding, you can continue to enjoy your walks in the countryside. The truth is that all dogs are capable of causing untold damage to livestock. We are unique in offering this type of training in a safe and controlled environment using the very same methods which train Border Collies and other herding breeds.You will find the training experience to be educational and enjoyable. My approach to sheep socialisation is unique and is supported by complete notes and handouts on a number of related themes; such as dominance, obedience, recalls etc. Our sessions will give you more confidence in your dog and your own ability to spot potential problems. Consequently, future problems will be minimised
“A dog attack is costly to the livelihood of a livestock farmer. We estimate that two dog attacks in Suffolk in 2004, and the repercussions from them, cost around £4000 in treatments, lambing difficulties, poorly and late finishing lambs and difficulties getting the ewes in-lamb again.”
Understanding when and why dogs chase is key to your success. Controlling the chase instinct should be the first element you address with a young dog. Building trust and a good relationship are also crucial. Watch “Practical Shepherding DVD Trailer Here”
The Worrying Facts
Facts about sheep worrying
• Under the Animals Act 1971, a person acting to protect livestock may be able to kill or injure a dog that he/she reasonably believes is ‘worrying’ without incurring any criminal or civil liability.
• As a dog owner, or a person for the time being in charge of a dog, you could be committing an offence if your pet worries livestock on agricultural land.
• Worrying includes attacking or chasing livestock in a way that might reasonably be expected to cause injury or suffering.
• It is also an offence to have a dog in a field or enclosed space where there are sheep when the dog is not on a lead or under close control.
“As a dog owner or a person for the time being in charge of a dog, you could be committing an offence if your dog worries livestock on agricultural land.
“Veterinary bills alone can leave a farmer substantially out of pocket and if livestock worrying is proved the dog owner or person in charge could be liable for damages and compensation.”
Rural crime experts have recorded attacks on sheep by 27 different breeds of dog in North Wales over the past two years.
Graph showing the number of attacks on sheep committed by different breeds of dogs between September 2013 and January 2016 in North Wales
What To Expect
Only kind methods used
A better understanding of your dog
A better understanding of livestock
An understanding of how to react if your dogs get into a field full of sheep
Folder containing notes/reading material
Honesty and a friendly, professional service
Training will either be provided over 4 or 8 sessions approximately 6-12 hours respectively, as appropriate.
Preventing livestock worrying
You will receive 12 Months VIP access to the Online version of “Practical Shepherding” and reading material will also be included in the price.
4 sessions – Where it is felt that you have a good basic to advanced level of obedience
8 sessions – Where more time is required bringing the dog/handler’s level of obedience to the required standard.
A Typical Session Will Involve
A typical session will involve:
An assessment of your home situation and handling style
A brush up of basic obedience and explanation of techniques/theories to be used
An introduction to advanced handling techniques and whistle training, where appropriate
A controlled session in a field with sheep depending on standard achieved
You will also need to gain an understanding of how sheepdogs are trained to herd sheep because the vast majority of the training you need to undertake to ensure your dog is safe around livestock is exactly the same as that of training a sheepdog to herd. This knowledge and understanding are essential. A copy of “Practical Shepherding DVD” will be included in the price as well as reading material. The DVD also prepares you to cope in case of an eventuality that your dog does chase sheep and how to stop it.
Assessment
Prior to any work being undertaken, we will undertake an assessment of you and your dog. This will give us the fuller picture of what has been attempted, succeeded or failed. All of the questions are relevant and your home lifestyle and your relationship with your dog will determine the work we subsequently carry out. Without this our work is not planned and outcomes are unlikely to be fruitful.