Thursday 19th March 2026

By Bridlington Gold Radio Editor

With the recent spell of spring‑like weather, rural police teams are reporting a sharp rise in incidents of livestock worrying and dog attacks on sheep and lambs. The Rural Task Force says the seasonal increase happens every year, but early reports suggest numbers are climbing faster than expected.

Across the UK, thousands of farm animals are killed or injured annually due to dog attacks. National figures also indicate that at least one dog a week is shot by farmers as a direct result of livestock worrying—an outcome police stress is entirely avoidable.

To tackle the issue, officers are stepping up awareness work under #OpRECALL, a national campaign promoting Responsibility, Education, Control, Accountability, Livestock and Livelihood. The message is simple: your dog is your responsibility.

What dog owners are being urged to do- Ensure dogs are kept under proper control near livestock - Check that leads, harnesses and garden fencing are secure and fit for purpose - Consider whether children or young people are strong enough to safely handle the dog - Practise recall in a safe environment so there is a “Plan B” if a dog slips the lead - Never allow a dog to be in a position where it could worry livestock

Police will be out across rural areas in the coming months to reinforce these messages.

New Law Comes Into Force: Stronger Powers, Tougher Penalties

A major development arrived this week with the introduction of The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025, giving police and courts significantly stronger tools to deal with livestock worrying.

Key changes include:

- Fines increased from £1,000 to unlimited

- Definition of livestock expanded to include camelids such as alpacas and llamas

- Offence locations widened to include public paths, roads and bridleways

- Greater police powers to detain dogs involved in attacks

- Ability to obtain warrants to enter premises and seize or take samples from dogs

Importantly, the offence of “worrying” does not require physical contact. Chasing, running at, or causing panic to livestock all count as offences.

Police continue to urge owners to use leads around livestock at all times, emphasising that these incidents are “totally avoidable” when dogs are properly controlled.

What This Means for Bridlington and the Surrounding Areas

Bridlington sits at the heart of a working rural landscape. From the farms around Bempton and Buckton to the grazing land stretching toward Burton Agnes, livestock is a vital part of the local economy and identity. The rise in livestock worrying has several implications for the region:

1. Protecting Local Farmers’ Livelihoods

Sheep worrying can devastate a farm business. Injured or killed animals, stressed ewes losing lambs, and the emotional toll on farmers all have long‑lasting effects. Stronger enforcement powers may offer reassurance to local farmers who have repeatedly called for tougher action.

2. Increased Patrols on Popular Walking Routes

Areas such as Danes Dyke, Flamborough Head, Sewerby, and the Wolds footpaths are likely to see more police visibility. These are places where dog walkers and livestock often mix, especially during lambing season.

3. Greater Awareness for Visitors

Bridlington attracts thousands of walkers and holidaymakers. Many are unaware of the risks or the law. The new legislation gives local authorities and police a stronger platform to educate visitors before problems occur.

4. Community Responsibility

With unlimited fines now possible, the stakes are higher. Local dog owners will need to take extra care—checking fencing, using leads, and ensuring dogs cannot escape gardens or slip control. The message is clear: one moment of inattention can have serious consequences.

5. Support for Rural Crime Teams

The new powers may help the Rural Task Force respond more effectively to incidents, investigate cases more thoroughly, and intervene earlier when dogs are repeatedly reported.