The Government is supporting a private member’s bill that gives more powers to the police to collect evidence and, in the most serious cases, seize and detain dogs involved in attacks.
Livestock worrying, which involves dogs chasing, attacking or otherwise causing distress, can lead to the injury and death of animals as well as bringing with it significant financial costs and emotional distress to keepers.
The bill, sponsored by former Environment Secretary Dr Thérèse Coffey, widens the definition of livestock to include llamas and alpacas and provides for enforcement on roads and footpaths in addition to fields.
The police would have their powers of entry updated so they can seize dogs involved in attacks as well as being given the ability to take evidence samples from livestock and dogs involved in offences.
This bill forms part of the Government’s action plan for animal welfare which has also seen legislation introduced to ban live exports and create new pet theft offences.
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