A warning has been issued to dog-owners across the county following continued reports of dogs “attacking sheep”.
On July 8, Wiltshire Police announced that it is seeking to raise awareness about ‘increasing pressure’ on the county’s rural landscapes.
The call comes amid continued reports of incidents of dogs being let off the lead and chasing or attacking sheep and nesting birds, adding that these offences are still “significantly underreported”.
The force also condemned reported incidents of verbal abuse being directed at members of the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, branding it “unacceptable.”
A spokesperson for the force said: “Dog ownership has risen sharply since the pandemic, and with more people than ever accessing the countryside, the pressure on our rural landscapes is increasing.
“As we move into the summer months, Wiltshire Police is raising awareness of responsible dog ownership to help protect livestock, wildlife, and the people who care for these areas.
“We continue to receive reports of dogs being allowed off‑lead and subsequently chasing or attacking sheep or disturbing nesting birds – offences that remain significantly underreported.”
The force said it has also been made aware of incidents where Wiltshire Wildlife Trust volunteers, when challenging walkers about uncontrolled dogs, have been met with aggression.
Wiltshire Police rural crime officer PC Simon Gomm said: “These offences might seem minor to some but they have serious consequences, not just for the animals but the farmers who rely on their livestock for their livelihood.
“Allowing your dog off-lead in these sites can lead to it chasing livestock, disturbing nesting birds, fouling and causing irreparable damage to sensitives landscapes.
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“There have been a number of reports of livestock or nesting birds being attacked and left to suffer, rescued by volunteers but sadly later euthanised due to their injuries.
“It is the dog owner’s responsibility to ensure your dog is behaving well and under control in these sensitive sites. Even the most well-trained dogs have predatory instincts that can be triggered.
“We’ve also received reports of Wildlife Trust staff being verbally abused when they have challenged walkers about their dogs, which is completely unacceptable.
“Those that work within these sites should not be victims of abuse for simply asking owners to put their dogs on leads.
“Within Wiltshire, we are fortunate to have extensive and varied landscapes which are a haven for wildlife, and it’s a privilege to be able to use these areas.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the countryside while protecting these exceptional habitats we are lucky to have in Wiltshire.”
Leo Henley Lock, director of Conservation and Land Management for Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, said: “Our nature reserves are among the few remaining places where wildlife can thrive, and these precious spaces are facing increasing pressures. We are delighted to see so many people enjoying them with their dogs, but it is vital that dogs are kept on leads while visiting our reserves.
"Even the most well-behaved dog can unintentionally disturb wildlife, or cause harm to livestock if allowed to roam freely.
“Keeping dogs on leads is a simple step that helps protect the species and habitats that make these places so special.
"We are proud to support this initiative alongside Wiltshire Police. By keeping dogs on leads, respecting our staff and volunteers, and following guidance on site, visitors can play an important role in helping us safeguard these wild spaces for wildlife and for future generations to enjoy."
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