Keep your dogs on a lead to protect livestock, warn police 

Officers say even a well-trained dog can instinctively chase sheep 

Dog owners are advised to secure their pets on a lead while enjoying the outdoors.

The message comes from the Northern Neighbourhood Policing Team following 'recent incidents' which resulted in the deaths of several sheep. 

Officers say even a well-trained dog can instinctively chase sheep, which could lead to injury or death. 

They add that it is a serious offence to allow dogs to worry or attack sheep. 

Below are some tips provided by the northern team: 

• Keep dogs on leads – Always keep your dog on a lead when walking near livestock. Even well-trained dogs can instinctively chase sheep, leading to injury or death. 

• Secure your property – Ensure your garden or yard is securely fenced to prevent your dog from escaping and potentially encountering livestock. • Be aware of your surroundings – Opt for routes that avoid fields with livestock, especially during lambing season. 

• Take responsibility – As a dog owner, you are responsible for your pet's actions.

"Taking these precautions helps protect livestock and promotes harmonious coexistence between pets and farm animals. Allowing your dog to worry or attack sheep is a serious offence on the Isle of Man. Failure to control your dog can lead to severe prosecution under Sections 17, 18, and 19 of the Dogs Act 1990."