Caution Urged For Dog Owners As Lambing Season Begins

SPCA is urging dog owners, particularly those living near
lifestyle blocks, to take extra care and keep track of their
pets at all times, as early lambing season gets
underway.

Every year sheep and lambs are injured or
killed by roaming dogs in attacks that are not only
traumatic for animals and people involved, but are often
completely avoidable through responsible dog
ownership.

With 175,000 lifestyle blocks nationwide
and rural properties continuing to grow in popularity, SPCA
Scientific Officer Dr Alison Vaughan says it’s important
for dog owners – particularly those living in rural areas
– to make sure their dog is secured and unable to
roam.

“This is a key part of responsible pet
ownership – making sure you know where your animal is at all
times and that you have them under control, whether that’s
on a leash when out walking or in a fenced yard or inside
your property,” says Dr Vaughan.

Those with stock on
lifestyle blocks, including sheep, lambs, goats and alpacas,
should remain vigilant of roaming dogs and regularly check
on their animals. Dogs running around ewes can cause extreme
stress, which can trigger miscarriage in those that are
pregnant or, for ewes who’ve already birthed lambs, can
cause them to abandon or starve their lambs.

“By
walking in areas where there are no dog restrictions and
keeping your dog on a leash, you avoid the chance that your
dog may cause stress to these animals or attack,” says Dr
Vaughan.

With several known attacks already this year,
lambing season is a timely reminder for dog owners to be
aware of their responsibilities under the Dog Control Act
1996. Owners of dogs caught harassing sheep are liable for a
hefty fine, as well as compensation for any loss of
stock.

The Act also protects the right of farmers to
shoot a dog disturbing their stock in certain circumstances
and gives courts the power to order destruction (euthanasia)
of the dog.

Some public walks through properties with
farmed animals may also be temporarily closed during lambing
season to protect these vulnerable animals. Owners should
refer to their local Council website for areas with dog
restrictions. Anyone concerned about dogs roaming near
lifestyle blocks or farm animals should contact their local
council.

© Scoop Media