A NEW campaign is urging dog owners in Ryedale to be responsible around sheep.

As the lambing season starts, police are reminding people that sheep worrying is a criminal offence and owners who allow their dog to harass livestock could face a large fine or imprisonment. It includes attacking the animals physically, running after them or chasing the sheep around, especially when they are carrying lambs – or are themselves young lambs. Dog faeces left on grazing land may also carry diseases that can kill sheep and affect unborn lambs.

Walkers are also being reminded to keep their dogs on leads and under control when they make their way through sheep fields.

Ultimately a landowner is able to shoot a dog which they believe is worrying sheep – as a last resort for protecting livestock. Officers in Ryedale are aware of particular issues with sheep worrying in Dalby Forest and linked footpaths.

PC Andy Marsden, wildlife crime officer for the area, said: “We live in a beautifully rural area and have many dog walkers who enjoy the country walks. “However, the reality is that sheep being worried by loose dogs causes issues not just for the animals and the farmer but also for other walkers who come across the bodies of sheep who have been attacked and then left, to suffer a slow and painful death.”

Anyone who sees a dog worrying sheep, or has any information about this kind of offence, should phone North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option one and speak to the force control room.