Livestock and Dogs information....

Good Afternoon, You are receiving this message as you are signed up to Devon and Cornwall Community Messaging either as a Farmer or Livestock owner, in which case this message is just for information about how we are supporting you and your stock, or you are signed up to community messaging as a dog owner, in which case this message is to raise awareness of your responsibilities as a dog owner. Thank you for reading. 

When visiting the countryside, please remember that farmland is also home to livestock and even the friendliest dog can frighten or injure sheep and other animals if allowed to run free. For their safety, and your dog’s, always keep your dog on a lead when walking near livestock.

Under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (which applies to a big chunk of Bodmin Moor), dogs must be kept on a lead of no more than two metres on open access land between 1 March and 31 July to protect ground-nesting birds and young farm animals. Landowners may also require dogs to be on leads at other times when livestock are present so please adhere to local signage and be aware of sheep, cattle and other livestock.

Remember, allowing your dog to worry livestock is a criminal offence and could result in police action being take against you or your dog, so it’s better to be safe and keep your beloved dog on a lead to prevent any risk.

By keeping your dog on a lead and under control, you help protect wildlife, support farmers, and ensure everyone can enjoy the countryside responsibly. Please walk with care and respect the land.

If you would like to know more about the Countryside Rights of Way act or Dogs Protection of Livestock Act, you can click these links for more information. 

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/37/introduction

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/Eliz2/1-2/28

Thank you for being a responsible dog owner, supporting local farming and enjoying our beautiful countryside .