The National Sheep Association (NSA) will highlight the rural issue of sheep worrying to dog owners this week, as it joins thousands of exhibitors and visitors at Crufts, the world’s largest dog show.
Invited by The Royal Kennel Club, NSA will attend Crufts at the NEC, Birmingham, from March 5-8.
Recognised by Guinness World Records as the largest dog show, the four-day event attracts more than 20,000 dog owners from around the world.
NSA’s presence at Crufts presents a significant opportunity to highlight the ongoing serious problem of sheep worrying by dogs, an issue that continues to inflict significant financial and welfare losses to sheep farms across the UK.
By engaging directly with dog owners, NSA will promote responsible ownership and reinforce its role as a voice for the UK sheep sector.
While NSA exists to support sheep producers, it also works to ensure the wider public understands the vital contribution sheep make to society and the very real challenges facing the sector.
As prey animals, sheep can experience extreme stress simply from the presence of an unfamiliar dog. Even well-trained and obedient pets can chase livestock out of instinct, often with tragic consequences. NSA will use its platform at Crufts to remind dog owners that no breed is exempt from natural instincts and that responsible control around livestock is essential.
In January, NSA launched its 13th annual sheep worrying survey, and this year, for the first time, has sought evidence directly from dog owners about their experiences and understanding of the issue.
By attending Crufts, NSA hopes to expand participation in the survey and engage constructively with dog owners about responsible behaviour in the countryside.
With significant legislative changes coming into power later this month, NSA will also be highlighting the new legal framework surrounding livestock worrying. Enhanced police powers and tougher penalties will come fully into force meaning incidents could carry more serious consequences for owners who fail to keep their dogs under control.
NSA representatives will be available in the Crufts ‘Meet the Experts’ area to discuss sheep worrying, explain the new legislation and answer questions from dog owners and industry professionals.
