NSA asks farmers to share experiences of sheep worrying
14th March 2014
National Sheep Association (NSA) wants to hear farmers’ experiences of sheep worrying by dogs. NSA has created a survey asking farmers about sheep worrying on their farm in a bid to increase the information the industry has about the issue. The results of the survey will be used to highlight to the general public the need to keep proper control of dogs around livestock.
Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says: “Sheep worrying by dogs is an issue NSA has been vocal about for some time. We continue to receive reports of attacks on sheep by dogs but we need evidence and information from around the UK to gain attention for the issue and to get dog walkers to take it seriously. That is why we are running the survey and urge all sheep farmers to participate.
“We do not want to discourage people from enjoying our beautiful countryside but feel that if everyone is aware of their responsibilities as well as their rights, rural areas can be used by farmers and the public harmoniously. NSA will continue to do what we can to encourage the non-farming community to take responsibility and control dogs around livestock.”
The NSA sheep worrying by dogs survey is available for farmers to complete on the NSA website and at www.surveymonkey.com/s/sheepworrying. Farmers not able to fill the questionnaire in online can do so over the phone, or request a hard copy, by calling NSA Head Office on 01684 892661. The survey closes on 31st March.
Notes to editors:-
- For more information contact NSA Communications Manager Joanne Briggs on 07807 237982 or joanne@nationalsheep.org.uk.
- The National Sheep Association is an organisation that represents the views and interests of sheep producers throughout the UK. It is funded by its membership of sheep farmers and its activities involve it in every aspect of the sheep industry. More at www.nationalsheep.org.uk and www.nsanextgeneration.org.uk.
